If you are searching for a delightful treat that perfectly balances tart cranberries with bright orange flavors, look no further than the Barefoot Contessa Cranberry Orange Bread Recipe. This bread is a moist, tender loaf bursting with zesty citrus and the sweet-tart pop of fresh cranberries. It is wonderfully simple to prepare but tastes like something from a gourmet bakery, making it an ideal choice for cozy breakfasts, elegant brunches, or a lovely afternoon snack. Once you try this recipe, it’s sure to become one of your favorites to bake and share.

Barefoot Contessa Cranberry Orange Bread Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of the Barefoot Contessa Cranberry Orange Bread Recipe comes from a handful of everyday ingredients that come together beautifully. Each one plays a vital role: the flour creates a soft, tender crumb, the orange zest and juice bring vivid citrus notes, and the cranberries add bursts of tart sweetness and vibrant color.

2 cups flour: The foundation for the bread’s tender texture, be sure to spoon and level for accuracy.
2 tsp baking powder: This is your rising agent that makes the bread light and fluffy.
½ tsp salt: Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness perfectly.
1 cup sugar: Adds the ideal amount of sweetness to balance the tart cranberries.
1 tbsp orange zest: The star citrus flavor that lifts the entire loaf with fragrant brightness.
¾ cup orange juice: Adds moisture and amplifies the orange flavor throughout the bread.
¼ cup melted butter: Provides richness and contributes to a moist crumb.
2 eggs: Bind ingredients together and add structure for a perfect loaf.
1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the sweetness and rounds out the citrus notes elegantly.
1½ cups cranberries: Fresh or frozen, these little bursts of tartness make every bite exciting.
Powdered sugar (optional): A light dusting adds a pretty finishing touch and subtle sweetness.

How to Make Barefoot Contessa Cranberry Orange Bread Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F to ensure it’s at the perfect temperature once your batter is ready. Lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan to prevent sticking, so your beautiful cranberry orange bread can come out cleanly and effortlessly after baking.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, sugar, and orange zest until they are evenly combined. This step distributes the rising agent and zest throughout the flour so every slice brims with citrusy, fluffy goodness.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the orange juice, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. This flavorful blend brings moisture and richness, creating a luscious batter that pairs perfectly with the dry ingredients.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Slowly add the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Overmixing can make the bread tough, so be gentle but thorough until you no longer see any flour patches.

Step 5: Fold in the Cranberries and Bake

Carefully fold the fresh cranberries into the batter, ensuring they’re evenly distributed but not crushed. Pour the batter into your prepared pan, smoothing the top. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. This step is what transforms your mixture into that golden, fragrant loaf everyone will love.

Step 6: Cool and Add Finishing Touches

Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar if you like for a lovely presentation. Slice it up and get ready to enjoy slice after slice of this irresistible treat.

How to Serve Barefoot Contessa Cranberry Orange Bread Recipe

Garnishes

Adding final touches can elevate your Barefoot Contessa Cranberry Orange Bread Recipe even further. Consider a light sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of citrus glaze for a sweet sheen. Thin orange slices or fresh cranberries on the side make for a charming garnish that hints at the flavors inside.

Side Dishes

This bread pairs beautifully with a spread of softened butter or cream cheese for a creamy contrast. It also complements a hot cup of tea, coffee, or even a refreshing glass of orange juice for a balanced breakfast or light snack.

Creative Ways to Present

For gatherings, slice the bread and arrange it on a beautiful serving platter with edible flowers or sprigs of rosemary for an elegant look. You could also serve it toasted, topped with honey and mascarpone, as a delightful brunch centerpiece. The versatility of this bread allows you to impress in so many delicious ways!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled completely, store leftover Barefoot Contessa Cranberry Orange Bread Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This keeps the bread moist and fresh without drying out.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy this treat later, wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. It will keep wonderfully for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature when ready to enjoy.

Reheating

For warm slices, pop leftover bread in a toaster oven or regular oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes. This revives its fresh-baked aroma and texture, making every bite as delightful as when first baked.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cranberries for this recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work just fine and add the same lovely tart bursts. Just be sure not to thaw them fully beforehand to prevent the batter from becoming watery.

Is it possible to make this bread gluten-free?

You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a good-quality gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Just keep in mind that texture may vary slightly, but the flavors will remain wonderful.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Replace the melted butter with a dairy-free alternative like coconut oil or vegan butter, and the bread will still come out moist and flavorful.

How long does the bread keep fresh?

Stored properly in an airtight container, this bread stays fresh for up to three days at room temperature or about a week in the fridge.

Can I add nuts to the recipe?

Definitely! Chopped walnuts or pecans add a nice crunch that pairs perfectly with the cranberries and orange. Add about ½ cup when folding the cranberries into the batter.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about the Barefoot Contessa Cranberry Orange Bread Recipe that makes it a standout in any bakery or kitchen. From the vibrant cranberry bursts to the fresh orange zest weaving through each slice, it is a loaf worth baking again and again. Warm, inviting, and impressively easy, this recipe will quickly become your go-to for gifts, gatherings, or simply brightening any day at home. Grab your ingredients and start baking—you will be so glad you did!