Oil-Free Orange Cranberry Loaf

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Oil-Free Orange Cranberry Loaf
This soft and flavorful loaf gets its moisture from applesauce instead of oil, making it light, tender, and perfect for tea time or holiday baking.

🧾 Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour (or 1:1 gluten-free baking blend)

  • 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries

  • 1 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed for best flavor)

  • 1 tablespoon orange zest

  • ¾ cup granulated sugar (or coconut sugar)

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

  • 1 teaspoon baking powder

  • ½ teaspoon baking soda

  • ½ teaspoon salt

  • ½ cup unsweetened applesauce

Optional topping:

  • Sliced almonds or rolled oats

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Prepare the Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F).

Line a standard loaf pan with baking paper or lightly grease it with a small amount of butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, add:

  • Flour

  • Sugar

  • Baking powder

  • Baking soda

  • Salt

Whisk well until evenly mixed.

Add the cranberries to the dry mixture and gently toss them in the flour. This helps keep them evenly distributed while baking.

3. Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, combine:

  • Orange juice

  • Orange zest

  • Applesauce

  • Vanilla extract

Whisk until smooth.

4. Make the Batter

Pour the wet mixture into the dry mixture.

Using a spatula or spoon, mix gently until just combined.
Do not overmix — this keeps the loaf soft and tender.

The batter will be thick.

5. Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.

Sprinkle almonds or oats on top if using.

Place in the oven and bake for 50–60 minutes, or until:

  • The top is lightly golden

  • A toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean

If the top browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil during the last 10 minutes.

6. Cool

Remove from the oven and let the loaf rest in the pan for 10 minutes.

Carefully transfer to a wire rack and allow to cool completely before slicing.
This helps the loaf hold its shape.

🍽 Serving Suggestions

Serve:

  • Plain

  • With tea or coffee

  • With a light dusting of powdered sugar

  • With a simple orange glaze (powdered sugar + orange juice)

📦 Storage

  • Store covered at room temperature for 2 days

  • Refrigerate for up to 5 days

  • Freeze slices for up to 1 month

⭐ Helpful Tips

✔ Use unsweetened applesauce
✔ Fresh orange juice gives better flavor
✔ Do not overmix the batter
✔ Frozen cranberries can be used without thawing

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