Cranberry-Orange Nut Bread

You know when you see a recipe that you just aren't sure of? Well, I found this recipe on the back of our Ingle's Grocery Store weekly sale ad. Sometimes, I don't trust the ones that aren't by a famous chef, or a legit cookbook. I had a bowl full of fresh cranberries that were just screaming to be used, and I figured what will it hurt? The worse thing that could happen would be that it would be awful and find a home in the trash can. The mix came together quickly, smelled fantastic while baking and looked pleasing when it came out of the oven. I had a little leftover orange juice, so I mixed up a little orange glaze to pour over the top. I let it set for a little bit, sliced off a little slice and prepared my taste buds for disappointment. We, the taste buds and myself, were shocked to discover that this little slice was actually not bad. In fact, it is really, really good! Tart from the cranberries, citrusy from the orange zest and juice, and moist. I am so glad that I made it!

Now is the time to start the Christmas baking. Whether it be for the holiday cookie swap, gift baskets, or just because you are in the holiday spirit. This will be one that I add to the list. Mini loaves of this will be perfect for that little gift for a special friend.

Cranberry-Orange Nut Bread

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1 cup sugar
1 tsp salt
1 Tbsp grated orange zest
3/4 cup orange juice
2 Tbsp shortening
1 egg, well beaten
1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries, coarsely chopped
1/2 cup chopped nuts, I used pecans

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan. Mix together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt and baking soda in a medium mixing bowl. Stir in orange juice, orange zest, shortening and egg. Mix until well blended. Stir in cranberries and nuts. Spread evenly in loaf pan. Bake for 55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool on a rack for 15 minutes. Remove from pan and cool completely. Wrap and store overnight. (I skipped that part)

This was fantastic with the orange glaze. I mixed powdered sugar and orange juice together until I got the consistency I wanted and drizzled over the bread.