Oh my goodness, let me tell you about the Cranberry Orange Monkey Bread! It’s a delightful combination of sweet and tangy that just dances on your palate. The moment you pull apart a warm, fluffy piece, you’ll be met with the zesty aroma of fresh oranges mixed with the tartness of cranberries – it’s a true flavor explosion! I remember making this for a family brunch last year, and it disappeared in a flash. Everyone was raving about it, and honestly, I couldn’t believe how simple it was to whip up! Just a few basic ingredients and some mixing, and you’ve got a show-stopping treat that’s perfect for gatherings or cozy mornings at home. Trust me, you’ll want to keep this recipe in your back pocket!
Ingredients for Cranberry Orange Monkey Bread
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/2 cup milk
1 cup fresh cranberries
Zest from one orange
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How to Prepare Cranberry Orange Monkey Bread
Alright, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of making this delightful Cranberry Orange Monkey Bread! It’s easy peasy, and I promise you’ll feel like a baking rockstar by the end. First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial because we want that bread to bake evenly and rise perfectly.
Step-by-Step Instructions
In a large mixing bowl, grab your two cups of all-purpose flour, half a cup of sugar, one tablespoon of baking powder, and half a teaspoon of salt. Give those dry ingredients a good whisk until they’re well combined. Now, here comes the fun part! Pour in half a cup of melted unsalted butter, half a cup of milk, one cup of fresh cranberries, the zest from one orange, and a teaspoon of vanilla extract. Gently stir this mixture until just combined; you don’t want to overwork the dough. It’s okay if there are a few lumps!
Next, grease a bundt pan (I like to use cooking spray for an easy release) and pour in your delicious mixture. Spread it out evenly, and then it’s time to bake! Pop it into your preheated oven and let it bake for about 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once out of the oven, let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before carefully inverting it onto a plate. The aroma will be heavenly, and you’ll be counting down the minutes until you can dig in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick preparation time means you can whip it up in just 15 minutes!
Easy cleanup with minimal dishes involved, so you can enjoy more time with your loved ones.
The delightful combination of tart cranberries and zesty orange creates a refreshing flavor that’s simply irresistible.
Perfect for sharing at gatherings, brunches, or even cozy nights in – everyone will want a piece!
Tips for Success
To ensure your Cranberry Orange Monkey Bread turns out perfectly every time, here are a few expert tips! First, be gentle when mixing your ingredients; overmixing can lead to a dense bread, and nobody wants that! Keep an eye on your bake time, as ovens can vary – check for doneness around the 25-minute mark with a toothpick. If it comes out clean, you’re good to go! And please, use fresh cranberries if you can; they make a world of difference in flavor. Trust me, these little details will elevate your monkey bread to a whole new level!
Nutritional Information for Cranberry Orange Monkey Bread
Now, let’s talk about the nutritional side of this delicious Cranberry Orange Monkey Bread! Each slice is estimated to be around 250 calories, which isn’t too shabby for a sweet treat. You’ll also find about 15g of sugar, 10g of fat, and 35g of carbohydrates per serving. Plus, it offers a little boost with 3g of protein and 2g of fiber. Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. So, indulge a little and enjoy every bite of this delightful bread!
FAQ About Cranberry Orange Monkey Bread
Got questions about Cranberry Orange Monkey Bread? I’ve got answers! First off, yes, you can definitely use frozen cranberries if fresh ones aren’t available. Just toss them in frozen, but don’t thaw them beforehand – it helps keep that vibrant color and flavor intact! As for leftovers, simply store any uneaten bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or pop it in the fridge if you want it to last a bit longer. And if you’re planning ahead, you can make this delicious bread up to a day in advance; just let it cool completely before storing. It’s even great the next day! Trust me, it’s hard to resist this treat no matter when you enjoy it!
Serving Suggestions
To make your Cranberry Orange Monkey Bread experience even more delightful, I love serving it with a steaming cup of coffee or a refreshing herbal tea. If you’re feeling a bit indulgent, a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side is simply divine! The warm bread paired with the cold, creamy ice cream is a match made in heaven. Trust me, it’s the perfect way to elevate your dessert game!
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