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Cranberry Orange Loaf

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A moist, flavorful loaf bursting with bright orange citrus and tart cranberries, with a satisfying crunch from pecans. Perfect for cozy mornings, holiday gifting, or a vibrant snack any time of year.

  • Author: Sophia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
  • Yield: 12 slices
  • Category: Quick Bread
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American / Holiday
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • 1 ¾ cups all‑purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • Zest of 1 large orange (about 1 ½ tablespoons)
  • 1 cup fresh cranberries
  • ½ cup pecans, coarsely chopped
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • ¾ cup white granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • ½ cup fresh orange juice

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5‑inch loaf pan.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, orange zest, fresh cranberries, and chopped pecans.
  3. In another bowl, beat the softened butter, sugar, and egg until smooth and pale. Stir in the orange juice.
  4. Add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients and gently stir just until the batter is moistened—being careful not to overmix.
  5. Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
  6. Bake for about 1 hour, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the loaf springs back lightly when touched.
  7. Let the loaf rest in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove it and cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.

Notes

  • Frozen cranberries can be used directly from freezer—no need to thaw—but toss them in a little flour to help prevent sinking.
  • Walnuts or almonds make great substitutes if pecans aren’t available.
  • Add a simple orange glaze (powdered sugar + orange juice) over the cooled loaf for extra sweetness and visual appeal.
  • Mini loaf pans work well too—just reduce bake time to ~40‑45 minutes.
  • Wrap completely cooled loaf before storing to keep moisture locked in.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://savorymomskitchen.com/cranberry-orange-loaf/