Contents

Zesty Orange Cranberry Pecan Bread: A Perfect Quick Bread Recipe

There’s a special joy that comes with baking bread at home. The aroma filling the kitchen, the warmth emanating from the oven, and the anticipation of that first delicious bite—it’s an experience that truly nourishes the soul. While I deeply admire the intricate art of yeast bread baking, with its precise measurements and patient proofing, I confess that my true passion lies in the wonderful world of quick breads. Though I once bravely ventured into the realm of yeast with my Cherry Limeade Sweet Rolls, which turned out surprisingly sensational, I often gravitate towards the simpler, more immediate gratification that quick breads offer. No lengthy waiting for dough to rise, just mix, bake, and enjoy!

For now, my baking adventures continue to revolve around sweet breads – those delightful loaves that offer comfort, flavor, and a touch of indulgence. My blog is practically a shrine to banana breads, a testament to how much my family adores them. There’s something undeniably magical about the combination of ripe bananas and warm, moist bread. My kids devour it, and my husband? He’s absolutely crazy for anything banana. Keeping him happy with delicious homemade treats is always a win, right?

The Inspiration Behind This Delightful Loaf

This particular Orange Cranberry Pecan Bread has a special place in my heart and on my blog. I actually baked it a couple of months ago, and I’m so excited to finally share the recipe with you. The inspiration came from a desire to comfort my dear Aunt Carol after she underwent back surgery. When she returned home to recover, I wanted to bring her and my Uncle Clyde a thoughtful dinner. They’re just the two of them, so a giant, elaborate dessert seemed excessive, but I still wanted to provide a sweet, comforting treat to brighten their spirits.

I stumbled upon a simple cranberry nut bread recipe in an old church cookbook, and my creative baking instincts immediately kicked in. I decided to give it a vibrant twist, knowing that citrus and cranberries are a match made in heaven. That’s when I incorporated the gorgeous Cara-Cara oranges. Oh, those oranges! Their beautiful, rosy-pink flesh instantly caught my eye. Beyond their stunning color, they are incredibly juicy and bursting with a sweet, subtly tangy flavor that truly elevated this bread. They transformed a traditional recipe into something truly special and memorable.

The result was this subtly sweet, wonderfully moist Orange Cranberry Pecan Bread. It’s perfect for breakfast, a delightful afternoon snack, or even a light dessert. It’s a versatile loaf that delivers on flavor and comfort. If you’re searching for an easy-to-make quick bread that bursts with fresh flavors and a delightful crunch, I sincerely hope you’ll give this recipe a try. It truly was a wonderful addition to my aunt and uncle’s dinner, and I know it will bring a smile to your face too!

Why Quick Breads Are a Baker’s Best Friend

Quick breads, like this Orange Cranberry Pecan loaf, are celebrated for their simplicity and speed, making them ideal for both novice and experienced bakers alike. Unlike yeast breads that require precise temperatures, kneading, and multiple proofing stages, quick breads rely on chemical leavening agents like baking powder and baking soda. This means you can whip up a delicious loaf from scratch in under an hour of active time, making them perfect for busy weekdays or last-minute potlucks. They’re forgiving, adaptable, and a fantastic way to enjoy homemade goodness without the fuss.

The Perfect Harmony of Flavors: Orange, Cranberry, and Pecan

What makes this Orange Cranberry Pecan Bread truly exceptional is the exquisite blend of its star ingredients. The bright, zesty notes of orange, especially from the fragrant zest and fresh juice, cut through the sweetness of the bread, adding a refreshing citrusy lift. The tartness of cranberries provides a delightful counterpoint, preventing the bread from becoming overly sweet and adding beautiful pops of color. Finally, the pecans introduce a lovely crunch and a rich, buttery, earthy flavor that complements the fruit perfectly. Together, these ingredients create a symphony of tastes and textures that is both comforting and invigorating.

Ingredient Spotlight: What Makes Them Special

Let’s delve a little deeper into the wonderful components of this quick bread:

Oranges: Beyond their refreshing taste, oranges are packed with Vitamin C. Using both the zest and the juice is key. The zest carries potent essential oils that infuse the bread with intense, aromatic citrus flavor, while the juice provides moisture and a tangy sweetness. Cara-Cara oranges, with their unique blush and less acidic profile, are a fantastic choice, but any sweet, juicy orange will work beautifully.
Cranberries: Whether you choose fresh or dried, cranberries offer a distinctive tartness that balances the richness of the bread. Dried cranberries (often sold as Craisins) are convenient and sweet-tart, while fresh cranberries will lend a more pronounced tang and juiciness. They are also rich in antioxidants.
Pecans: These buttery nuts add a crucial textural element and a deep, nutty flavor. They are a good source of healthy fats and contribute to the bread’s satisfying chewiness. To enhance their flavor even further, you can lightly toast the pecan pieces before folding them into the batter. This simple step brings out their inherent sweetness and intensifies their aroma.

Orange, Cranberry, Pecan Bread Recipe

If you love this recipe, don’t forget to give it a star rating and leave a comment below!

Print Recipe

Orange, Cranberry, Pecan Bread

Subtly sweet, Cranberry, Orange, Pecan Bread is delicious and so enjoyable.

Prep Time: 5 mins

Cook Time: 1 hr

Total Time: 1 hr 5 mins

Cuisine: American

Keyword: Cranberry, orange, Pecan Bread

Servings: 1 loaf

Calories: 4341 kcal

Author: Michaela Kenkel

Ingredients

2 cups flour
1 cup sugar
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 cup Crisco (I used the butter kind)
1 cup Craisins
1/2 cup pecan pieces
2 Tablespoons orange zest
3/4 cup fresh orange juice
1 egg (slightly beaten)

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 C). Spray loaf pan with non-stick cooking spray.
Combine dry ingredients (flour, sugar, cinnamon, baking powder, salt, baking soda). Using a pastry blender or two knives, cut the shortening into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse cornmeal.
In a separate bowl, combine orange juice, zest, and the slightly beaten egg. Stir the wet mixture into the flour mixture, mixing just until the dry ingredients are moistened. Be careful not to overmix.
Gently fold in the pecan pieces and Craisins until evenly distributed.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean.

Nutrition

Tips for Baking the Perfect Quick Bread

Achieving a perfectly moist and tender quick bread is easier than you think! Here are a few tips to ensure your Orange Cranberry Pecan Bread turns out perfectly every time:

Don’t Overmix: This is arguably the most crucial rule for quick breads. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, leading to a tough, dense loaf. Mix the wet and dry ingredients just until combined, with a few lumps still visible.
Proper Pan Preparation: Always grease and flour your loaf pan, or use a non-stick cooking spray. This prevents sticking and ensures your beautiful loaf comes out cleanly.
Measure Accurately: Especially with flour, it’s best to spoon flour into your measuring cup and then level it off with a straight edge, rather than scooping directly from the bag. Too much flour can make your bread dry.
Check for Doneness: The toothpick test is your best friend. Insert a wooden toothpick or a thin skewer into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached (but no wet batter), your bread is ready.
Cooling is Key: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps the bread set and prevents it from becoming soggy.

Serving Suggestions and Storage

This Orange Cranberry Pecan Bread is incredibly versatile. Enjoy it sliced thick for breakfast with a cup of coffee or tea, as an afternoon snack, or even warmed slightly with a dollop of whipped cream for a simple dessert. It also makes a wonderful homemade gift for friends, family, or neighbors!

To store, wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, the bread freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then a layer of foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.

Creative Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with this recipe to suit your taste! You could:

Swap the Nuts: Try walnuts, almonds, or a mix of your favorite nuts instead of pecans.
Vary the Dried Fruit: Golden raisins, chopped dried apricots, or even dried blueberries would be delicious additions.
Add Spices: A pinch of nutmeg or allspice could enhance the warming flavors.
Glaze It: For an extra touch of sweetness, whisk together powdered sugar with a little orange juice and drizzle over the cooled loaf.

More Sweet Bread Delights to Explore

If you’re craving more homemade goodness after enjoying this Orange Cranberry Pecan Bread, here are a few more of my favorite sweet bread recipes you might love:

Zesty Orange Cranberry Pecan Bread