Name: Barefoot Contessa Cranberry Orange Bread That's Irresistibly Moist
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour (Substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free options.); 2 teaspoons baking powder (Acts as a leavening agent.); 1 teaspoon salt (Enhances flavors of the other ingredients.); 1 cup granulated sugar (Reduce if using sweeter dried cranberries.); 1 tablespoon orange zest (Use zest from one large orange for optimal taste.); 1 cup fresh orange juice (Freshly squeezed is always best!); 1/2 cup unsalted butter (Make sure it’s melted and cooled before mixing.); 2 large eggs (Provides richness and binds the ingredients together.); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (Adds a lovely warm flavor note.); 1 cup fresh or dried cranberries (Roughly chop before adding.); 1 cup powdered sugar (Optional for a sweet decorative finish.)

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A sweet aroma wafts through my kitchen, transporting me back to cozy mornings filled with laughter and warmth. There’s something truly special about the Barefoot Contessa Cranberry Orange Bread; it’s more than just a recipe—it’s a heartfelt addition to any breakfast table or a cherished gift for loved ones. This delightful quick bread marries the tartness of fresh cranberries with the zesty brightness of orange, creating a treat that’s both comforting and refreshing. Best of all, it’s incredibly easy to whip up in just an hour, making it perfect for those busy days when you want something delicious without the fuss. Whether you’re enjoying a slice with your morning coffee or presenting it as a thoughtful token during the festive season, this bread is sure to impress. Curious about how to make this moist delight? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why is this bread a must-try?

Irresistibly Moist: The Barefoot Contessa Cranberry Orange Bread features a tender and moist crumb that melts in your mouth, ensuring every bite is pure bliss.
Bright, Zesty Flavor: Bursting with fresh orange juice and zest, the tangy citrus elevates the tart cranberries, making this bread a refreshing delight.
Quick and Easy: With minimal effort required, you can have this delicious bread ready in just an hour—perfect for busy mornings or unexpected guests.
Gifting Perfect: Wrapped beautifully, it makes a thoughtful homemade gift that resonates with heartfelt warmth during holidays or special occasions.
Versatile Options: This recipe easily accommodates personal tastes; you can use dried cranberries for a sweeter twist or add nuts for a delightful crunch!
Elevate your breakfast experience today and impress your loved ones with this homemade masterpiece!

Barefoot Contessa Cranberry Orange Bread Ingredients

For the Bread

All-purpose flour – Provides structure to the bread; substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free options.
Baking powder – Acts as a leavening agent, ensuring the bread rises properly.
Salt – Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients; do not omit for the best taste.
Granulated sugar – Adds sweetness; reduce if using sweeter dried cranberries.
Orange zest – Infuses the bread with vibrant citrus aroma and flavor; use zest from one large orange for optimal taste.
Fresh orange juice – Adds moisture and amplifies the orange flavor; freshly squeezed is always best!
Unsalted butter – Contributes to the bread’s tenderness; make sure it’s melted and cooled before mixing it in.
Eggs – Provides richness and binds the ingredients together; large eggs work best.
Vanilla extract – Adds a lovely warm flavor note, enhancing the bread’s sweetness.
Fresh or dried cranberries – The star ingredient that provides tartness; roughly chop before adding.
Powdered sugar – Optional for a sweet decorative finish when dusted on the bread.

Wrap this delightful Barefoot Contessa Cranberry Orange Bread tightly in plastic wrap and share the warmth!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Barefoot Contessa Cranberry Orange Bread

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×5-inch loaf pan by greasing and flouring it or lining it with parchment paper for easy removal. This ensures your Barefoot Contessa Cranberry Orange Bread bakes evenly, providing a beautifully golden crust.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, granulated sugar, and orange zest. This delicious mix forms the base of your bread and should smell fragrant. Take a moment to fully combine these ingredients to create a wonderful foundation for your quick bread.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, mix together the fresh orange juice, melted and cooled butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth. This mixture brings moisture and a rich flavor to your Barefoot Contessa Cranberry Orange Bread. Ensure all wet ingredients are well blended for a consistent and delightful texture.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gently add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense result. You want the batter to remain slightly lumpy for the lightest, most tender bread. This step is crucial for achieving that moist texture you desire!

Step 5: Fold in Cranberries
Carefully fold in the fresh or dried cranberries, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter. Using a spatula, gently mix until just incorporated, maintaining the light consistency of the dough. The bright red cranberries will provide delightful bursts of tartness in each slice of your prepared bread.

Step 6: Transfer Batter to Pan
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top using a spatula. This helps create an even rise as your Barefoot Contessa Cranberry Orange Bread bakes. A well-distributed batter leads to even cooking and a beautiful loaf shape that you’ll be proud to serve.

Step 7: Bake the Bread
Place the loaf pan in the oven and bake for 50–60 minutes. Keep an eye on your bread; it’s done when it turns a beautiful golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma of cranberries and orange will begin to fill your kitchen, so enjoy this moment!

Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. After that, carefully transfer the bread to a wire rack to cool completely. If desired, dust with powdered sugar for a sweet finish. Your Barefoot Contessa Cranberry Orange Bread is now ready to slice and savor!

What to Serve with Barefoot Contessa Cranberry Orange Bread

This enchanting quick bread pairs beautifully with various dishes, creating a delightful breakfast or brunch experience.

Creamy Greek Yogurt: The tangy flavor of Greek yogurt adds a refreshing contrast and complements the tartness of the cranberries beautifully.
Buttery Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy, buttery eggs make for a satisfying contrast to the sweet bread, balancing flavors perfectly on your breakfast plate.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits, like berries and citrus, enhances the freshness of the orange while providing a light, juicy complement.
Warm Coffee: A steaming cup of coffee harmonizes with the bread’s sweetness, creating a cozy morning ritual to savor alongside every slice.
Honey Butter: The sweetness from honey butter drizzled over the bread amplifies the zesty orange flavors, making each bite even more irresistible.
Herbal Tea: A soothing herbal tea, like chamomile or mint, offers a comforting pairing that enhances the lightness of the bread, perfect for a mid-afternoon treat.
Lemonade or Citrus Spritzer: Bright and fizzy beverages with citrus notes provide a refreshing contrast to the sweetness, perfect for warm, sunny brunches.

Barefoot Contessa Cranberry Orange Bread Variations

Feel free to make this delightful bread your own with these exciting twists and substitutions!

Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version.
Nutty Addition: Fold in ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to add a delightful crunch and deepen the flavor.
Sweet Twist: Substitute fresh cranberries with dried cranberries for a sweeter bite; reduce the sugar slightly to balance flavors.
Extra Zest: Incorporate an additional tablespoon of orange zest for a more pronounced citrus flavor that brightens every slice.
Spiced Up: Add a teaspoon of ground cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced flavor perfect for cozy mornings.
Muffin Version: Pour the batter into a muffin tin and bake for 20-22 minutes for individual servings. These make great grab-and-go breakfasts!
Chocolate Surprise: Mix in half a cup of chocolate chips to satisfy your sweet tooth and create a sensational flavor combination.
Cranberry Juice Boost: Replace some of the fresh orange juice with cranberry juice for a tangy twist that enhances the bread’s tartness.

With these variations, you can transform your Barefoot Contessa Cranberry Orange Bread into a unique creation each time you bake! And if you love quick breads as much as I do, check out my recipe for banana bread or explore my delightful guide on making quick breads for more inspiration!

Expert Tips for Barefoot Contessa Cranberry Orange Bread

Flour Tossing: To avoid cranberries sinking, toss them in a bit of flour before folding them into the batter. This simple trick helps distribute them evenly.
Orange Enhancements: For an extra burst of citrusy goodness, consider adding an additional teaspoon of orange extract or more zest to the batter.
Mixing Technique: Be cautious not to overmix the batter; it should be just combined. Overmixing can lead to dry bread, so gentle folding is key for achieving that moist texture.
Perfect Bake Time: Keep a close eye on your bread while baking. Ovens vary, so check for doneness a few minutes early by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean.
Storage Know-How: For the best freshness, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and store it at room temperature for up to 3 days. Alternatively, freeze for up to 2 months.

These tips will ensure your Barefoot Contessa Cranberry Orange Bread turns out irresistible every time!

Make Ahead Options

These delightful Barefoot Contessa Cranberry Orange Bread loaves are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix the dry ingredients and keep them stored in an airtight container, while the wet mixture can also be combined and refrigerated. To maintain the freshness and vibrant flavor, be sure to fold in the cranberries only just before baking. When you’re ready to enjoy this moist quick bread, pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake as directed, savoring the comforting aroma that will fill your home. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll have a delicious treat at your fingertips, saving you time on busy mornings!

How to Store and Freeze Barefoot Contessa Cranberry Orange Bread

Room Temperature: Store the bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap at room temperature for up to 3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the bread for up to 2 months. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn.

Thawing: To enjoy your frozen Barefoot Contessa Cranberry Orange Bread, thaw it overnight in the fridge. It will taste just as delightful as when it was freshly baked!

Reheating: If you prefer your bread warm, slice and briefly toast it or place individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. Enjoy the cozy warmth!

Barefoot Contessa Cranberry Orange Bread Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best cranberries for this bread?
Absolutely! When selecting cranberries, look for fresh, firm berries that are deep red in color. Avoid any that are soft or have dark spots, as they may be spoiled. If you’re using dried cranberries, choose unsweetened ones if you prefer a tart contrast to the sweet bread.

How should I store the Barefoot Contessa Cranberry Orange Bread?
For optimal freshness, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and store it at room temperature. It’ll stay delicious for up to 3 days. Ensure that it’s kept in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain its moisture and flavor!

Can I freeze this cranberry orange bread?
Yes, definitely! To freeze your Barefoot Contessa Cranberry Orange Bread, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and it’ll taste just as delightful as freshly baked!

What should I do if my bread ends up too dense?
Very important to keep an eye on your mixing! If your bread comes out dense, it may be due to overmixing. Remember, the key is to mix the wet and dry ingredients just until combined; a few lumps are okay! Also, double-check your baking powder for freshness, as expired leavening agents can prevent proper rising.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Yes! If you’re baking for someone with dietary restrictions, it’s easy to make this recipe gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend. Also, check in on any nut allergies if you choose to add nuts to the bread. Always taste and adjust based on individual needs to ensure everyone enjoys this delightful treat!

How can I give this bread an extra kick of flavor?
For an added layer of flavor, consider mixing in a teaspoon of orange extract along with the wet ingredients. Additionally, fresh spices like a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon can also elevate the flavor profile beautifully. Just remember, a little goes a long way!