Before diving into the delightful world of Barefoot Contessa’s Cranberry Orange Bread, let’s explore some fantastic pairings that can enhance your experience with this sweet treat. 

Perfect for breakfast or as an afternoon snack, a dollop of cream cheese spread balances the sweetness of the bread, adding a slight tanginess that complements it beautifully. 

Drizzling a bit of honey or maple syrup over a warm slice adds comfort and transforms it into a delightful dessert. For a balanced breakfast, pairing the bread with Greek yogurt topped with berries makes for a filling and delicious option. 

Enjoying a slice alongside your favorite tea or coffee creates a cozy moment, with the warmth of the drink pairing perfectly with the bread’s citrusy notes. For a decadent twist, consider serving slices of this cranberry orange bread with a scoop of vanilla or orange-flavored ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience.

barefoot contessa cranberry orange bread recipe

As a food enthusiast and registered dietitian, I’m constantly on a quest to revive and adapt beloved recipes. One recipe that piqued my interest is Barefoot Contessa’s Cranberry Orange Bread. It’s like sunshine captured in a loaf. 

But wait, this isn’t just any bread; it’s a blend of tart cranberries and fragrant oranges. Every time I bake it, the kitchen fills with a cozy aroma that makes my heart sing.

From breakfast to dessert, this bread can fit into any part of your day. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also easy to make. Whether you whip it up for a gathering or enjoy it on a random Tuesday, this recipe holds its charm. Let’s uncover the intricacies of this delightful concoction.

What is Barefoot Contessa Cranberry Orange Bread?

Barefoot Contessa’s Cranberry Orange Bread is a delightful quick bread that is both sweet and tangy. The cranberries add a pop of color while providing a hint of tartness, which is beautifully offset by the sweetness of sugar and the zest of orange. It’s not a yeast bread; rather, it’s made with baking soda, making it easier and quicker to prepare.

This dish encapsulates the essence of home baking with its warm and inviting flavor profile. The addition of spices, nuts, and a simple glaze elevates it to a standard that’s worthy of any brunch table or holiday spread.

What Makes This Recipe Different From Other Cranberry Orange Bread Recipes?

I’ve tried different variations of cranberry orange bread, but Barefoot Contessa’s version stands out. One key difference lies in its balance of flavors. Many recipes tend to be overly sweet or lack a certain depth. Contessa’s recipe incorporates brown sugar, which enhances the flavor while adding a rich undertone.

Additionally, the use of both orange zest and almond extract creates a symphony of taste that many recipes overlook. The choice of buttermilk provides not only moisture but also a subtle tang that rounds out the sweetness.

How Does It Taste Like?

The first bite of Barefoot Contessa’s Cranberry Orange Bread is a burst of flavor. Sweetness from the sugar merges effortlessly with the tartness of the cranberries. You can sense the uplifting citrus notes from the orange zest dancing across your palate. For a true food lover, this balance creates an experience rather than just a taste.

And let’s talk texture! The bread is moist but not overly dense. A slight crunch from the nuts (if you choose to include them) complements the soft crumb, making each bite enjoyable. The glaze offers a delightful finish, bringing all the flavors together in a sweet, sticky embrace.

Ingredients You’ll Need To Make This Dish

Getting started is half the fun! Here’s what you’ll need for this transformative recipe:

For the Streusel:

  • 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh ginger
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, chilled and diced

For the Bread:

  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 large egg, at room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1/2 cup packed light or dark brown sugar
  • 1/3 cup canola oil
  • 1 cup buttermilk, at room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 2 teaspoons orange zest
  • 1 cup cranberries, fresh or frozen
  • 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
  • Chopped pecans or walnuts (optional) – about 1/2 cup

For the Glaze:

  • 1-2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
barefoot contessa cranberry orange bread

Step by Step Instructions

Let’s get into the nitty-gritty of how to bring this recipe to life!

Step 1: Prepare the Area

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or baking spray.

Step 2: Make the Streusel

In a small bowl, combine the finely chopped ginger, flour, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and diced butter. Using your fingers or a pastry cutter, mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Set aside.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, baking soda, and sea salt. This ensures that the baking soda is evenly distributed throughout the flour.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, beat the egg. Add the brown sugar, canola oil, buttermilk, vanilla extract, orange zest, and almond extract. Mix well until combined.

Step 5: Marry the Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix; you want to keep it fluffy.

Step 6: Add the Cranberries

Gently fold in the cranberries (and nuts, if you’re using them). This adds another layer of flavor and texture.

Step 7: Pour Into Pan

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle the streusel mixture on top. This will create a delightful crust as it bakes.

Step 8: Bake

Bake for 55 to 65 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean when inserted into the center. Always check the bread a bit earlier to avoid over-baking.

Step 9: Make the Glaze

While the bread is cooling, make the glaze. In a medium bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and orange juice. Adjust consistency as needed.

Step 10: Glaze and Serve

Once the bread is completely cool, generously drizzle the glaze on top. Cut into slices, serve, and enjoy!

Tips & Tricks On Making Barefoot Contessa Cranberry Orange Bread

When diving into this recipe, consider the following tips to elevate your baking game:

  • Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your egg and buttermilk are at room temperature. This helps the batter emulsify better and yields a softer bread.
  • Don’t Skip the Glaze: The glaze is what takes this bread to the next level. It adds sweetness and a lovely finish, enhancing the overall flavor.
  • Check for Doneness Early: Ovens often vary; checking for doneness a few minutes early can prevent overcooking.
  • Use Fresh Cranberries: If available, fresh cranberries offer the best flavor. If frozen, don’t thaw them. Add them straight from the freezer to retain their structure.
  • Experiment with Zest: While orange is traditional, try adding lemon or lime zest for a twist on flavor. Each citrus has its own charm!
barefoot contessa cranberry orange bread copycat recipe

Nutrition Information

barefoot contessa cranberry orange bread recipe nutrition facts

How Do I Store This Dish?

Proper storage ensures you can enjoy this bread for days. Here’s what to do:

  • At Room Temperature: Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can last for up to three days on the counter. Just keep it in a cool, dry spot.
  • In the Refrigerator: If you want to extend its life, store it in the fridge for up to a week. Just make sure to wrap it well to avoid drying out.
  • Freezing for Later: Slice the bread, wrap each slice individually, and place them in a freezer bag. It can last up to three months. Thaw in the fridge or at room temperature when ready to enjoy.

What Other Substitutes Can You Use in Barefoot Contessa Cranberry Orange Bread?

Getting creative in the kitchen is part of the fun! Here are some substitutes you can consider:

  • Greek Yogurt Instead of Buttermilk: If you’re out of buttermilk, thin out some Greek yogurt with a little water. It provides similar acidity and moisture.
  • Coconut Oil in Place of Canola Oil: For a slight coconut flavor, substitute canola oil with melted coconut oil.
  • Maple Syrup as a Sugar Alternative: Use maple syrup instead of granulated sugar for a more complex sweetness—just reduce the liquid in the recipe slightly.
  • Gluten-Free Flour: For those avoiding gluten, a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend can work in place of regular flour.
  •  Dried Cranberries for Fresh: If fresh cranberries are hard to find, dried cranberries can also be substituted. Just reduce the sugar slightly, as dried fruit tends to be sweeter.
barefoot contessa cranberry orange bread

Barefoot Contessa Cranberry Orange Bread Recipe

Sharon Brown
As a food enthusiast and registered dietitian, I’m constantly on a quest to revive and adapt beloved recipes. One recipe that piqued my interest is Barefoot Contessa's Cranberry Orange Bread. It's like sunshine captured in a loaf.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Course Breakfast
Cuisine American
Servings 1
Calories 165 kcal

Equipment

  • Oven
  • 9×5-inch loaf pan

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon 8g finely chopped fresh ginger
  • 1/4 cup 31g all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons 30g granulated sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 3 tablespoons 43g unsalted butter, chilled and diced
  • 1/2 cup 100g granulated sugar
  • 2 cups 250g all-purpose flour
  • 1 large egg at room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1/2 cup 105g packed light or dark brown sugar
  • 1/3 cup 80ml canola oil
  • 1 cup 240ml buttermilk, at room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 2 teaspoons orange zest
  • 1 cup 110g cranberries, fresh or frozen
  • 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
  • optional: 1/2 cup 65g chopped pecans or chopped walnuts
  • 1 –2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
  • 1 cup 120g powdered sugar

Instructions
 

  • First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or baking spray.
  • In a small bowl, combine the finely chopped ginger, flour, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and diced butter. Using your fingers or a pastry cutter, mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Set aside.
  • In a large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, baking soda, and sea salt. This ensures that the baking soda is evenly distributed throughout the flour.
  • In another bowl, beat the egg. Add the brown sugar, canola oil, buttermilk, vanilla extract, orange zest, and almond extract. Mix well until combined.
  • Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix; you want to keep it fluffy.
  • Gently fold in the cranberries (and nuts, if you’re using them). This adds another layer of flavor and texture.
  • Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle the streusel mixture on top. This will create a delightful crust as it bakes.
  • Bake for 55 to 65 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean when inserted into the center. Always check the bread a bit earlier to avoid over-baking.
  • While the bread is cooling, make the glaze. In a medium bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and orange juice. Adjust consistency as needed.
  • Once the bread is completely cool, generously drizzle the glaze on top. Cut into slices, serve, and enjoy!

Notes

  • Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your egg and buttermilk are at room temperature. This helps the batter emulsify better and yields a softer bread.
  • Don’t Skip the Glaze: The glaze is what takes this bread to the next level. It adds sweetness and a lovely finish, enhancing the overall flavor.
  • Check for Doneness Early: Ovens often vary; checking for doneness a few minutes early can prevent overcooking.
  • Use Fresh Cranberries: If available, fresh cranberries offer the best flavor. If frozen, don’t thaw them. Add them straight from the freezer to retain their structure.
  • Experiment with Zest: While orange is traditional, try adding lemon or lime zest for a twist on flavor. Each citrus has its own charm!

Nutrition

Calories: 165kcal
Keyword barefoot contessa cranberry orange bread recipe
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Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Barefoot Contessa’s Cranberry Orange Bread is a gem in the world of quick breads. With its delicate balance of flavors, it caters to both sweet lovers and those who appreciate a bit of tartness. The step-by-step process demystifies baking, making it accessible even for beginners.

Once you try this recipe, sharing it with friends and family becomes second nature. After all, food brings people together. So, roll up your sleeves and enjoy the process. Happy baking!

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About Author

Sharon Brown

Sharon Brown is a Texas-based registered dietitian and food enthusiast passionate about sharing comforting, home-cooked recipes. On Tasty Shelter, she guides readers through easy-to-follow dishes that bring warmth and flavor to every meal. Sharon's mission is to inspire others to create delicious, comforting food in their own kitchens.

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