Introduction: Homemade cranberry orange bread is a beloved treat, especially during the holiday season when the tartness of cranberries and the citrusy zing of oranges come together in a harmonious union. This friendly version of cranberry orange bread allows you to indulge in the flavors you love while staying mindful of your wellness goals. With a few simple ingredient swaps and adjustments, you can enjoy this delicious bread guilt-free.
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A Healthier Twist on a Classic Recipe: Traditional cranberry orange bread recipes often contain generous amounts of sugar and oil, which can add up in calories and points. However, this homemade W-W version takes a lighter approach by incorporating whole wheat flour, reduced-sugar alternatives, and healthier fats. By making these substitutions, you can still enjoy the moist texture and vibrant flavors of cranberry orange bread without sacrificing taste or satisfaction.
Key Ingredients and Nutritional Benefits: Whole wheat flour adds fiber and nutrients to the bread, helping to keep you feeling full and satisfied. Fresh cranberries provide a burst of tartness and are rich in antioxidants, while fresh orange zest and juice infuse the bread with bright citrus flavor and vitamin C. Greek yogurt replaces some of the traditional oil or butter, reducing the overall fat content while adding protein and creaminess to the batter. Finally, a touch of honey or maple syrup adds sweetness without overwhelming the natural flavors of the fruit.
Simple Preparation and Enjoyment: Making homemade cranberry orange bread is a straightforward process that anyone can master. Simply mix the dry ingredients, fold in the wet ingredients, and gently stir in the cranberries and orange zest. Bake the batter in a loaf pan until golden brown and fragrant, then allow it to cool before slicing and serving. Whether enjoyed as a breakfast treat, afternoon snack, or dessert, this W-W cranberry orange bread is sure to delight your taste buds and leave you feeling satisfied.
Versatility and Customization: One of the joys of homemade baking is the ability to customize recipes to suit your preferences and dietary needs. Feel free to experiment with different flour blends, sweeteners, and add-ins to create your perfect version of cranberry orange bread. You can also make mini loaves or muffins for portion control and easy sharing with friends and family. With a little creativity and imagination, the possibilities are endless.
Conclusion: Homemade W-W cranberry orange bread offers a delicious and nutritious alternative to traditional baked goods, allowing you to indulge in the flavors of the season without derailing your wellness journey. With its wholesome ingredients, simple preparation, and delightful taste, this bread is sure to become a staple in your kitchen year-round. So why wait? Roll up your sleeves, preheat the oven, and treat yourself to a slice of homemade goodness that’s as satisfying as it is nutritious.
Ingredients:
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1 cup all-purpose flour
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1 cup whole wheat flour
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1/2 cup granulated sugar
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1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
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1 teaspoon baking powder
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1/2 teaspoon baking soda
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
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1/4 cup non-fat Greek yogurt
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2 large eggs
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1/4 cup orange juice
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Zest of 1 orange
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1 cup fresh cranberries, chopped
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Cooking spray
Instructions:
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Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan:
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly coat a 9×5-inch loaf pan with cooking spray.
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Mix Dry Ingredients:
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In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
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Combine Wet Ingredients:
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In a separate bowl, mix together the unsweetened applesauce, non-fat Greek yogurt, eggs, orange juice, and orange zest until smooth.
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Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
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Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix. The batter will be thick.
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Add Cranberries:
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Gently fold in the chopped fresh cranberries until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
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Transfer to Pan:
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Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it out evenly.
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Bake:
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Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Cool:
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Allow the cranberry orange bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
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Slice and Serve:
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Once cooled, slice the bread into thick slices and serve. Enjoy it plain or with a light spread of butter or cream cheese, if desired.
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Store:
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Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze individual slices for longer storage.
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Enjoy!
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Indulge in this homemade Cranberry Orange Bread as a delicious and satisfying treat that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a snack any time of day. With its delightful blend of tart cranberries and citrusy orange flavor, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
