Bright, festive, and loaded with flavors that sing of the holidays, Cranberry Orange Walnut Loaf is that rare treat you’ll crave all year long. With bursts of tart cranberries, zesty orange fragrance, and the toasty crunch of walnuts, this loaf bakes up into a moist, tender slice of pure comfort. Whether you’re planning a cheerful brunch, looking to impress at a potluck, or searching for the perfect edible gift, one bite of this vibrant bread and you’ll understand why it’s such a beloved classic.

Cranberry Orange Walnut Loaf Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this recipe plays an important role, from creating a soft crumb to adding that unmistakable tang and crunch. These simple staples come together for a loaf that looks as gorgeous as it tastes!

All-purpose flour: The foundation of the loaf, providing just the right amount of structure for a perfect crumb.
Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness, balances the tartness of cranberries, and helps the loaf brown beautifully.
Baking powder: Lifts the loaf for a light, fluffy texture.
Baking soda: Reacts with the orange juice to give an extra tender crumb.
Salt: Rounds out the flavors and enhances overall taste.
Fresh orange juice: Infuses the bread with bright, citrusy notes and provides needed moisture.
Orange zest: Packs a punch of pure orange essence—don’t skip it!
Vegetable oil (or melted butter): Keeps the loaf rich and moist without weighing it down.
Large egg: Binds everything together and adds a bit of extra lift.
Fresh or frozen cranberries: Bursts of tartness that cut through the sweetness—halve the bigger ones for even distribution.
Chopped walnuts: Offers a nutty crunch that complements the citrus and berries perfectly.

How to Make Cranberry Orange Walnut Loaf

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Preheat

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing and lining your 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper is a small step that pays off big—your beloved loaf will slip out effortlessly, looking bakery-ready every time.

Step 2: Whisk the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This simple mix ensures leavening and sweetness are evenly distributed, setting you up for a uniform crumb and gentle rise throughout your Cranberry Orange Walnut Loaf.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, combine the orange juice, zest, oil (or melted butter if you’re feeling decadent), and egg. Whisk until everything is smooth and creamy. This citrusy mixture is what gives the bread its signature flavor and tender bite.

Step 4: Bring the Batter Together

Now, gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry mixture. The key here is not to overmix—just stir until you see no major streaks of flour. A few lumps are totally normal and will bake out for a tender loaf.

Step 5: Fold in the Cranberries and Walnuts

Add in the fresh or frozen cranberries (no need to thaw if frozen) and the chopped walnuts. Gently fold just until they’re dispersed. The cranberries will add tart pops, while walnuts offer a delightful contrast of texture in every bite.

Step 6: Bake the Loaf

Pour your finished batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Pop it into your preheated oven for 50–60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.

Step 7: Cool and Unmold

Let your Cranberry Orange Walnut Loaf cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This short rest finishes the cooking and helps the loaf firm up so it slices perfectly. Patience is worth it for picture-perfect presentation!

How to Serve Cranberry Orange Walnut Loaf

Garnishes

A simple dusting of powdered sugar is lovely—like a dusting of fresh snow! For a bit more flair, drizzle on a quick citrus glaze made from powdered sugar and orange juice. It locks in moisture and adds even more zip to each slice.

Side Dishes

Pair your Cranberry Orange Walnut Loaf with creamy Greek yogurt, soft butter, or a dollop of mascarpone for a breakfast treat. For a cozy afternoon snack, try it with a hot cup of tea or coffee; the flavors complement each other perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice your loaf thick and arrange the pieces on a rustic wooden board with extra orange slices, a sprinkle of cranberries, and whole walnuts for a stunning centerpiece. Individually wrapped slices also make heartfelt homemade gifts during the holiday season—or any time you want to bring a smile!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep your Cranberry Orange Walnut Loaf moist and fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil. It can be stored at room temperature for up to three days, or in the refrigerator for five days; just let it come to room temp before serving for the best flavor.

Freezing

This loaf is a freezer superstar! Wrap it whole or slice it and slip pieces between sheets of parchment. Store the wrapped loaf in a zip-top freezer bag for up to three months. It defrosts beautifully and makes for instant, homemade comfort when you need it most.

Reheating

Refresh slices by warming briefly in the microwave or toasting gently in the oven. This perks up the texture and aroma and brings back the just-baked feel—even days after you first made your Cranberry Orange Walnut Loaf.

FAQs

Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh or frozen?

You can, but the result will be a bit sweeter and less tart. If you’re using dried cranberries, consider plumping them in a little warm orange juice for extra moisture and flavor before adding them to the batter.

What’s the secret to a moist Cranberry Orange Walnut Loaf?

The key is to use enough orange juice and oil—but not to overmix the batter. Overmixing can make for a dense loaf. Always stir just until the dry spots disappear for a soft, tender crumb.

Do I have to use walnuts?

Nope! You can swap in pecans or leave out the nuts altogether if you have allergies or personal preferences. The loaf will still turn out delicious and full of flavor.

Can I add a glaze on top?

Absolutely! A simple glaze made from powdered sugar and orange juice takes this Cranberry Orange Walnut Loaf over the top, adding another layer of citrusy sweetness and making it look extra festive.

Is this recipe suitable for gifting?

Yes, it’s perfect for sharing! This loaf wraps up beautifully and holds its shape, making it a thoughtful gift for hosts, teachers, or neighbors—and it’s always met with big smiles.

Final Thoughts

Whether for a holiday table or just to brighten up an everyday morning, Cranberry Orange Walnut Loaf truly delivers sunshine and cozy vibes in every slice. I hope you give it a try soon—once you taste that tangy-sweet burst paired with nutty crunch, you’ll want to bake it again and again!