Delight in the harmonious blend of tart cranberries and sweet orange zest with our Heavenly Cranberry Orange Loaves, crowned with a deliciously crumbly streusel topping. This recipe marries the brightness of citrus with the richness of berries, making a moist, flavorful loaf that's a joy to bake and serve.
Why You'll Love This:
This loaf is a feast for the senses, featuring a vibrant aroma and a rich, comforting taste. The sweet and tangy balance, coupled with a crunchy streusel topping, makes each bite a satisfying experience.
Perfect Occasion:
Ideal for holiday gatherings, brunches, or as a thoughtful homemade gift, these loaves bring a festive touch to any occasion. They're particularly delightful during the holiday season when cranberries are at their peak.
Decoration Tips:
For a festive touch, drizzle the glaze over the cooled loaves and garnish with a sprinkle of orange zest or a few whole cranberries. Serve each slice on a plate dusted with powdered sugar or alongside a dollop of whipped cream for added elegance.
Streusel Topping:
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons cold butter, cubed
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two loaf pans.
- For the Streusel: In a small bowl, mix together flour, cold cubed butter, granulated sugar, and cinnamon until crumbly. Set aside.
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- Zest from two oranges
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
Wet Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups buttermilk
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Additional:
- 2 cups fresh cranberries, halved and lightly dusted with flour
Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 to 2 tablespoons orange juice
- 1 1/2 teaspoons orange zest
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, orange zest, flour, salt, and baking powder.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, mix buttermilk, oil, beaten eggs, orange juice, and vanilla extract until well blended.
- Mix: Gradually combine the wet ingredients with the dry ingredients, stirring just until incorporated. Fold in the flour-dusted cranberries.
- Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Sprinkle the top of each with the streusel mixture. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Prepare the Glaze: While the loaves cool, whisk together powdered sugar, orange juice, and orange zest until smooth.
- Finish: Once cooled, drizzle the glaze over the loaves.
Enjoy your exquisitely moist and flavorful Cranberry Orange Loaves, perfect for celebrating any special occasion or simply enjoying a sweet slice of life!