Cranberry Orange Loaf Cake

 Cranberry Orange Loaf Cake

Instructions

1. Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat to 350°F (180°C) and line a loaf pan with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, combine flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
3. Infuse Sugar with Orange Zest: Rub the orange zest into the sugar until fragrant; this step boosts the orange flavor.
4. Combine Wet Ingredients: Whisk together milk, oil, eggs, orange-infused sugar, and vanilla.
5. Combine and Fold in Cranberries: Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Coat cranberries with a small portion of flour (to prevent sinking) and fold them into the batter.
6. Bake: Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for about 1 hour, or until a toothpick comes out clean. If the top begins to brown too quickly, tent with foil halfway through.
7. Glaze: Once the loaf cools, mix powdered sugar with orange juice to a pourable consistency and drizzle over the loaf. Let set before slicing.

Conclusion

This Cranberry Orange Loaf Cake is a versatile recipe that can be adapted to make muffins or mini loaves as well. It stores well, so you can prepare it ahead for gatherings. The sweet-tart combination is a crowd-pleaser, especially during the holiday season. Enjoy this delightful cake warm or at room temperature with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy treat!

For further details on this recipe, check out resources like Joy the Baker, Bite It Quick, and Seasons and Suppers for their variations and tips to perfect this recipe.