Cranberry Orange Mini Loaves

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Bright, zesty orange meets tart cranberries in these delightful Cranberry Orange Mini Loaves. Perfectly moist and bursting with citrus flavor, these mini loaves are ideal for breakfast, gifting, or a sweet snack. Each bite offers a perfect balance of sweet and tangy, wrapped in a soft crumb with a subtle glaze that elevates it all.

Whether you’re prepping for the holidays or just craving a comforting bake, this recipe will fill your kitchen with the warm aroma of orange zest and vanilla. Plus, the mini loaf format makes them perfect for sharing or freezing for later indulgence.

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What Kind of Orange Should I Use?

For the freshest citrus punch, opt for navel oranges. Their zest is aromatic and juice plentiful. If you love a bolder tang, try Cara Cara or even blood oranges for a slightly sweeter twist and richer color.

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Ingredients for the Cranberry Orange Mini Loaves

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tbsp orange zest (about 1 orange)
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup sour cream
• ½ cup orange juice, freshly squeezed
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups fresh or frozen cranberries (do not thaw if frozen)
• Optional glaze: 1 cup powdered sugar + 2-3 tbsp orange juice

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How To Make the Cranberry Orange Mini Loaves

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour 4 mini loaf pans or line them with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and orange zest.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry

Stir in sour cream, orange juice, and vanilla extract. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet, mixing just until combined. Fold in the cranberries.

Step 5: Bake

Divide batter evenly among the prepared mini loaf pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks.

Step 6: Add Glaze (Optional)

Whisk powdered sugar and orange juice until smooth. Drizzle over cooled loaves for a citrusy finish.

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How to Serve and Store Cranberry Orange Mini Loaves

These mini loaves are best enjoyed slightly warm or at room temperature. Serve them with a cup of tea or coffee, or wrap in parchment for a perfect homemade gift.

To store, wrap each loaf tightly in plastic wrap or foil. They keep well at room temperature for 3 days, or up to a week in the fridge. For longer storage, freeze individually for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature overnight.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?

Yes, just use ¾ cup dried cranberries and soak them in warm water for 10 minutes before using.

Can I substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream?

Absolutely! Use the same amount of full-fat Greek yogurt as a 1:1 swap.

Can I make one large loaf instead of mini loaves?

Yes, just adjust the baking time to about 55-65 minutes and use a standard 9×5-inch loaf pan.

Do I need to thaw frozen cranberries first?

Nope! Just toss them in frozen so they don’t bleed into the batter.

How can I make them more festive?

Add chopped nuts like pecans or a sprinkle of coarse sugar on top before baking.

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Want More Sweet Bread Ideas?

If you’re loving these Cranberry Orange Mini Loaves, try these next:

• Lemon Loaf Recipe for a bright, tangy twist.
• Cinnamon Donut Bread for a cozy cinnamon sugar bite.
• Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake if you’re in the mood for fruity decadence.
• Nutella French Toast Casserole for indulgent breakfast vibes.
• Irresistible Pecan Pie Bites for a mini treat packed with flavor.

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Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you glaze them or keep it simple? Try any mix-ins?

I love seeing your baking adventures. Share your tweaks, tips, or questions—we’re all learning together.

More daily recipe inspiration over on my Pinterest: Nina Dishes.

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