Cranberry-Poppy Seed-Orange Loaf Recipe
Description:
Indulge in the harmonious blend of three delightful flavors – tangy cranberries, zesty oranges, and the nutty crunch of poppy seeds – in this scrumptious loaf cake that’s perfect for any occasion. This moist and flavorful loaf only gets better with time, making it an ideal make-ahead treat for busy days or special gatherings.
Recipe Category: Quick Breads
Keywords: Breads, Dessert, Oranges, Berries, Citrus, Fruit, Canadian, Winter, Christmas, Thanksgiving, Sweet, Weeknight, Brunch, Oven, < 4 Hours
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 288.9
- Fat Content: 6.9g
- Saturated Fat Content: 2.5g
- Cholesterol Content: 34.7mg
- Sodium Content: 212.1mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 53.7g
- Fiber Content: 5.4g
- Sugar Content: 28.9g
- Protein Content: 6.7g
Servings: 8
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Ingredients:
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 2 | Butter |
| 1 | Cup Sugar |
| 1 | Egg |
| 2 | Oranges, zest of |
| 2 | Cups Whole Wheat Flour |
| 2 | Teaspoons Baking Powder |
| 1/4 | Teaspoon Salt |
| 1/3 | Cup Poppy Seeds |
| 1/2 | Cup Buttermilk |
| 1/2 | Cup Milk |
| 2 | Cups Fresh Cranberries |
Instructions:
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Preheat the oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C). This ensures that your loaf bakes evenly and rises perfectly.
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Prepare the loaf pan: Grease and flour a large loaf pan, ensuring that the entire surface is well-coated to prevent sticking.
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Cream the butter and sugar: In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, creating a smooth and creamy base for your loaf.
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Incorporate the egg and orange zest: Once the butter and sugar are well combined, beat in the egg and the zest of two oranges, infusing the batter with a burst of citrus flavor.
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Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, baking powder, salt, and poppy seeds until evenly distributed.
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Alternate mixing: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the butter-sugar mixture, alternating with additions of buttermilk and milk, creating a thick and smooth batter.
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Add cranberries: Gently stir in the chopped fresh cranberries, ensuring that they are evenly distributed throughout the batter for bursts of tartness in every bite.
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Transfer to loaf pan: Scrape the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly to ensure even baking.
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Bake: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating that the loaf is fully baked.
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Optional alternative: Alternatively, if you prefer a different shape, you can bake the batter in a 9-inch square pan for 30 to 35 minutes, adjusting the baking time accordingly.
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Cool and serve: Once baked, allow the loaf to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve this delightful Cranberry-Poppy Seed-Orange Loaf as a delicious treat for brunch, dessert, or any time you crave a slice of citrusy sweetness!
This Cranberry-Poppy Seed-Orange Loaf is sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire, with its vibrant flavors and moist texture making it a hit with family and friends alike. Enjoy the warm, comforting aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your kitchen as you whip up this delightful treat, perfect for any occasion from cozy winter evenings to festive holiday celebrations.
