Cranberry Orange Sourdough Bread Recipe

Introduction

Cranberry Orange Sourdough Bread is a delightful fusion of tangy sourdough with sweet and citrusy flavors. This bread combines the chewy texture of sourdough with the vibrant taste of dried cranberries and the zest of fresh orange, making it a perfect choice for breakfast, snacks, or festive gatherings. Its slightly sweet yet tangy profile pairs beautifully with cream cheese, butter, or even a drizzle of honey. Whether you’re an experienced baker or new to sourdough, this recipe is easy to follow and yields a stunning loaf every time. Ready to impress your family and friends? Let’s dive in!

Prep Time and Servings for Cranberry Orange Sourdough Bread

• Prep Time: 20 minutes (active)
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Resting Time: 8–12 hours (overnight proofing)
• Total Time: Approximately 13 hours
• Servings: 1 loaf (about 8–10 slices)

Ingredients for Cranberry Orange Sourdough Bread

For the Dough

• 500g (about 4 cups) bread flour
• 100g (about ½ cup) active sourdough starter
• 350ml (1½ cups) water
• 10g (2 tsp) sea salt

For the Add-Ins

• 100g (about ¾ cup) dried cranberries
• Zest of 1 large orange
• 1 tbsp orange juice

Optional Toppings

• Rolled oats for garnish
• A sprinkle of coarse sugar

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Cranberry Orange Sourdough Bread

1. Prepare the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour and water. Mix until no dry flour remains. Cover the bowl with a damp towel and let it rest for 30 minutes (autolyse).
2. After the autolyse, add the active sourdough starter and sea salt. Mix until well incorporated, either by hand or using a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment.

2. Add Cranberries and Orange Zest

3. Gently fold in the dried cranberries, orange zest, and orange juice. Knead lightly to ensure the add-ins are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

3. Bulk Fermentation

4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise at room temperature for 4–6 hours. During the first 2 hours, perform a series of stretch-and-folds every 30 minutes.

4. Shaping the Dough

5. After the bulk fermentation, turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Shape it into a round or oblong loaf, depending on your preference.
6. Place the shaped dough into a proofing basket or a bowl lined with a floured kitchen towel.

5. Second Rise

7. Cover the dough and let it proof in the refrigerator overnight for 8–12 hours.

6. Bake the Bread

8. Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and place a Dutch oven inside to heat.
9. Carefully transfer the dough onto parchment paper. Score the top with a sharp blade to allow the bread to expand during baking.
10. Place the dough (on the parchment paper) into the preheated Dutch oven. Cover with the lid and bake for 20 minutes.
11. Remove the lid and bake for another 20 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.

7. Cool and Serve

12. Allow the bread to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.

Pro Tips for Perfect Cranberry Orange Sourdough Bread Every Time

1. Hydration Control: If your dough feels too sticky, add a small amount of flour gradually. Conversely, if it’s too dry, add a teaspoon of water at a time.
2. Sourdough Starter: Make sure your sourdough starter is active and bubbly before starting the recipe. Feeding it 4–6 hours beforehand ensures it’s ready.
3. Cranberries: Soak the dried cranberries in warm water for about 10 minutes before adding them to the dough. This prevents them from absorbing moisture from the dough and burning during baking.
4. Shaping: Don’t overwork the dough when shaping—it should be taut but not stretched to the point of tearing.
5. Oven Heat: Preheat the Dutch oven thoroughly for the best oven spring and crispy crust.

Serving Suggestions

1. For Breakfast: Serve a slice of Cranberry Orange Sourdough Bread toasted with a smear of cream cheese or butter. The creamy texture complements the tangy and sweet flavors perfectly.
2. With Soup: Pair it with a comforting bowl of butternut squash soup or tomato bisque for a cozy meal.
3. On a Cheese Board: Include slices of this bread on a holiday charcuterie or cheese board. It pairs beautifully with brie, goat cheese, or a sharp cheddar.
4. As a Snack: Drizzle honey or orange marmalade on a slice for a simple and delicious treat.
5. Holiday Twist: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon to the dough, and serve it alongside your Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner spread.

FAQs About Cranberry Orange Sourdough Bread

1. Can you add orange juice to sourdough?

Yes, orange juice can be added to sourdough to enhance its flavor and provide a bright citrus note. In this recipe, a tablespoon of orange juice is used to complement the zest and dried cranberries. Be sure to measure carefully, as too much liquid can alter the dough’s texture.

2. Why is German sourdough bread considered healthier?

German sourdough bread is often praised for its use of whole grains like rye and its traditional long fermentation process. These methods improve digestibility, lower the bread’s glycemic index, and reduce phytic acid levels, making nutrients more bioavailable. If you’re curious about other nutritious options, try exploring this recipe for Cauliflower White Bean Soup—it pairs wonderfully with hearty breads like sourdough!

3. What not to do with sourdough?

Avoid overproofing your dough, as it can lead to a flat or overly sour loaf. Similarly, using an inactive sourdough starter will prevent proper fermentation and rising. Finally, never rush the process—sourdough requires time to develop its unique flavors and texture.

4. How many calories are in cranberry sourdough bread?

A slice of Cranberry Orange Sourdough Bread contains approximately 150–180 calories, depending on the size and exact ingredients used. It’s a delightful choice for a balanced snack or as part of a meal. If you’re looking for other sweet yet light options, you might enjoy this Ocean Spray Cranberry Relish Recipe for a festive treat!

Conclusion

Cranberry Orange Sourdough Bread is a beautiful blend of tangy, sweet, and citrusy flavors, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it as a breakfast treat, pairing it with a hearty soup, or serving it as part of your holiday menu, this bread never fails to impress. The chewy texture of sourdough combined with the bright bursts of cranberries and orange zest creates a loaf that’s as stunning as it is delicious.

Now that you’ve mastered this recipe, why not explore more delightful dishes? Pair this bread with a cozy Old-Fashioned Chicken and Rice Soup or add a festive touch with Ocean Spray Cranberry Orange Relish.

Bake this bread, share it with loved ones, and let the irresistible aroma fill your kitchen. Happy baking!