Zesty Orange Cranberry Bread with White Chocolate Drizzle

Looking for the perfect balance of tangy and sweet in a dessert? This Orange Cranberry Bread with White Chocolate Drizzle is the ideal choice. Bursting with the vibrant flavors of fresh oranges and tart cranberries, this moist bread is both comforting and elegant. Perfect for festive gatherings, afternoon tea, or simply as a treat to brighten your day, the white chocolate drizzle adds a touch of sophistication that elevates this dessert to a whole new level.

Not only is this recipe simple to make, but it also fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. With a prep time of only 20 minutes and a baking time of 50 minutes, you can have this delightful bread ready in just over an hour.

 

Ingredients

For the Bread:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup fresh orange juice (preferably squeezed)
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup chopped candied orange peel

For the White Chocolate Drizzle:

• 1 cup white chocolate chips
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

 

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour a standard loaf pan to prevent sticking.
2. Measure and gather all ingredients to streamline the baking process.

Step 2: Mix the Batter

1. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
2. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
3. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the orange juice, starting and ending with the dry ingredients.
5. Fold in the dried cranberries and candied orange peel gently to distribute evenly.

Step 3: Bake the Bread

1. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
3. Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 4: Prepare the White Chocolate Drizzle

1. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the white chocolate chips and heavy cream together in 20-second intervals, stirring after each interval until smooth.
2. Using a spoon or piping bag, drizzle the melted white chocolate over the cooled bread in decorative patterns.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Allow the drizzle to set for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
2. Serve with a cup of tea, coffee, or as a standalone dessert.

Tips and Tricks

• For extra moisture, brush the bread with a light glaze made from 2 tablespoons of orange juice and 1 tablespoon of sugar while it’s still warm.
• Substitute dried cranberries with fresh or frozen cranberries for a juicier texture.
• Add a pinch of orange zest to the white chocolate drizzle for an extra citrusy kick.

 

This Orange Cranberry Bread with White Chocolate Drizzle is a showstopper that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. With its harmonious blend of tangy orange, sweet cranberries, and creamy white chocolate, it’s a recipe that never fails to impress. Whether you’re hosting guests or treating yourself, this bread offers a slice of happiness in every bite. Easy to make, yet elegant enough for special occasions, it’s sure to become a beloved favorite in your recipe collection.