Cranberry Fruit Nut Bread
Cranberry Fruit Nut Bread offers a delightful combination of tart cranberries, crunchy pecans, and aromatic orange peel, resulting in a moist, flavorful loaf perfect for breakfast, brunch, or teatime. Its vibrant flavors and hearty texture make it a crowd-pleaser for holiday gatherings and everyday indulgence.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Generously grease and lightly flour a 9 x 5 x 3-inch loaf pan.
- Prepare cranberries, nuts, and orange peel; set aside.
- In a bowl, mix together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and baking soda.
- Cut in shortening until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in orange juice, egg, and orange peel, mixing just to moisten.
- Fold in cranberries and nuts.
- Spoon the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
- Bake for 50 to 60 minutes or until a wooden pick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let cool for 15 minutes, then remove from the pan.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, try substituting walnuts for pecans or using dried cranberries if fresh ones aren't available. Ensure the shortening is at room temperature for easier incorporation. If you want a sweeter bread, consider increasing the sugar slightly. Adding a pinch of cinnamon can also enhance the flavor profile, making it a delightful addition to holiday gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
This cranberry fruit nut bread is perfect for breakfast or as an afternoon snack, especially with a smear of cream cheese. It pairs beautifully with *Mary E.'S Chocolate Fudge for a sweet dessert option. Serve it alongside a warm cup of tea or coffee for a delightful experience. Consider serving it with a side of fresh fruit for added freshness.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cranberry fruit nut bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then warm slices in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cranberry Fruit Nut Bread contains roughly 756 calories, with 2g protein, 51g carbohydrates, and 63g fat. It is a good source of calcium (16% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1453mg per serving (63% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum for better structure. The texture may vary slightly, but it should still yield a delicious loaf. Be sure to check that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
What can I add to enhance the flavor?
You can enhance the flavor by adding spices such as nutmeg or allspice, or even a teaspoon of vanilla extract. Some people enjoy adding a handful of chocolate chips for a sweet touch. Experimenting with additional citrus zest, like lemon or lime, can also brighten the bread's flavor profile.
How can I ensure my bread rises properly?
To ensure your bread rises properly, make sure your baking powder is fresh and hasn't expired. Additionally, don't overmix the batter after adding the wet ingredients; mix just until combined. Finally, make sure your oven is preheated to the correct temperature before baking for optimal rising.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).