Discover the Magic of Holiday Cranberry Loaf for Your Festive Gatherings

Nothing captures the essence of the season quite like a homemade holiday cranberry loaf, bursting with vibrant flavors that evoke cozy family moments.

 

As we approach the end of 2025, communities across the region are buzzing with excitement over baking workshops and seasonal fairs that highlight fresh takes on classic treats.

 

This year, local events have spotlighted creative spins on cranberry-based delights, drawing crowds eager to share recipes and tips for perfect holiday baking.

 

Imagine slicing into a loaf where tart cranberries dance with sunny orange notes, creating a symphony of tastes that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly new.

 

Whether you're hosting a brunch or wrapping gifts for neighbors, this holiday cranberry loaf promises to become a staple in your repertoire.

 

Start by gathering simple pantry staples that transform into something extraordinary with just a bit of mixing and oven time.

 

You'll need about two cups of flour to form the base, combined with leavening agents that ensure a light, airy rise.

 

Add a dash of spice like cinnamon to warm up the batter, blending seamlessly with sweet granules and rich oils for moisture.

 

Eggs bring everything together, while fresh citrus juice and zest infuse that irresistible brightness contrasting the berries' natural tang.

 

Don't forget a generous handful of chopped cranberries, whether fresh from the market or frozen for convenience, folded in at the last moment.

 

Once mixed, the batter goes into a standard pan, baking until golden and fragrant, filling your home with holiday cheer.

 

After cooling, a simple glaze made from powdered sweetness and more citrus drizzles on top, adding a glossy finish that's as pretty as it is delicious.

 

The result is a tender crumb that stays fresh for days, ideal for sharing at community potlucks or savoring during quiet evenings by the fire.

 

For those in our area, recent baking classes have encouraged experimenting with additions like crunchy nuts, turning this loaf into a personalized masterpiece.

 

Some locals are swapping in dried fruits for variety, or incorporating subtle extracts to mimic professional bakery flair.

 

Mini versions have become popular for gifting, especially at the festive markets popping up this December in nearby towns.

 

As 2025 winds down, these gatherings remind us how baking fosters connections, with holiday cranberry loaf at the heart of many shared stories.

 

 

Ingredients

Cranberry Orange Loaf

• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour

• 1 tsp baking powder

• ½ tsp baking soda

• ½ tsp salt

• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

• ¾ cup granulated sugar

• ½ cup vegetable oil (or melted butter)

• 2 large eggs

• ¾ cup fresh orange juice

• Zest of 1 large orange

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1 ½ cups fresh or frozen cranberries (roughly chopped)

 

Orange Glaze

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• 2–3 tbsp fresh orange juice

• ½ tsp orange zest

 

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Oven & Pan

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.

2. Grease a 9×5 loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.

 

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2. Mix the Batter

3. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.

4. In a separate large bowl, mix the sugar, oil, eggs, orange juice, orange zest, and vanilla until smooth.

5. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined.

6. Gently stir in the chopped cranberries.

 

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3. Bake

7. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.

8. Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

9. Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

 

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4. Make the Glaze

10. Whisk together powdered sugar, orange juice, and zest until smooth and pourable.

11. Drizzle glaze over the cooled loaf.

 

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5. Slice & Enjoy

12. Slice and serve once the glaze sets slightly.

13. Store covered at room temperature for 2 days, or refrigerate up to 5 days.

 

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Holiday Variations

• Add ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch

• Swap cranberries for dried cherries

• Add ½ tsp almond extract for a bakery-style twist

• Turn into mini loaves for easy holiday gifting