Gluten-Free Cranberry Orange Bread
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Gluten-Free Cranberry Orange Bread
If you’re looking for a gluten-free treat that’s bursting with citrusy sweetness and tangy cranberries, this Gluten-Free Cranberry Orange Bread is the perfect solution. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family breakfast or a holiday gathering, it’s a loaf that feels special yet incredibly easy to make. You won’t miss the gluten in this tender, moist bread—plus, the flavors of orange and cranberry pair so perfectly that this could easily become a household favorite!
Why Choose Gluten-Free Cranberry Orange Bread?
Whether you’re gluten-sensitive, have Celiac disease, or are simply looking to reduce gluten in your diet, this bread is an excellent alternative to traditional recipes. The zesty orange flavor and tart cranberries make this a refreshing and festive loaf that also works well as a gift during the holiday season. Plus, it’s made from scratch with wholesome ingredients, ensuring you know exactly what’s going into your bread.
Tips for Perfecting Gluten-Free Cranberry Orange Bread
- Fresh Cranberries: If you can get your hands on fresh cranberries, use them! However, dried cranberries will work in a pinch. Simply soak them in hot water for 10 minutes to rehydrate.
- Orange Zest: Don’t skip the orange zest—it adds an intense citrus flavor that balances the tartness of the cranberries.
- Almond Flour for Texture: Almond flour provides a nice crumb and adds extra moisture, which is often lacking in gluten-free bread.
- Don’t Overmix: Gluten-free batters tend to get gummy if overmixed. Once your dry and wet ingredients are combined, stop stirring.
- Check for Doneness: Gluten-free breads can sometimes take longer to bake, so test with a toothpick inserted in the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, the bread is ready.
Gluten-Free Cranberry Orange Bread Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups gluten-free all-purpose flour blend
- ½ cup almond flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 cup fresh or dried cranberries (rehydrated if using dried)
- Zest of 1 large orange
- ½ cup fresh orange juice
- ½ cup sugar (or coconut sugar for a refined sugar-free option)
- â…“ cup melted coconut oil (or butter)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a loaf pan with coconut oil or line it with parchment paper.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour blend, almond flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Prepare wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the orange zest, orange juice, sugar, coconut oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until well combined.
- Combine: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Fold in the cranberries.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Common Questions About Gluten-Free Cranberry Orange Bread
Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh?
Yes! Frozen cranberries are an excellent substitute for fresh ones. You can use them straight from the freezer—there’s no need to thaw them before adding to the batter. However, they may increase the baking time by a few minutes.
How do I store the bread?
This bread can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days in an airtight container. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze it for up to 3 months. When freezing, wrap the loaf in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
Can I make this bread vegan?
Yes, you can substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg). Use coconut oil instead of butter to keep the bread vegan.
Is this bread good for holiday gifting?
Absolutely! Gluten-Free Cranberry Orange Bread is a wonderful holiday gift. It has the perfect combination of bright citrus and festive cranberry flavors, making it a thoughtful homemade gift. You can even bake mini loaves to share with friends and family!
Why is my gluten-free bread dense?
Gluten-free breads can become dense due to overmixing or using the wrong flour blend. Be sure to use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that contains xanthan gum or guar gum, which helps mimic the texture of gluten.
Final Thoughts
This Gluten-Free Cranberry Orange Bread is a delightful and easy way to enjoy a gluten-free baked treat without sacrificing flavor or texture. Perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or even as a holiday gift, this bread is a versatile addition to any recipe collection. Enjoy the tangy sweetness with every bite, and don’t be surprised when it becomes a favorite!