001: cranberry orange bread with glaze

this is a fun, fast bread recipe that does not require the hassle of yeast, kneading, and waiting for rising time. it is also delicious! prep time took me about 30 minutes, and baking time is one hour.


equipment:
measuring cups and spoons
standing mixer (though you could honestly probably do it hand mixed as well) with wire whip
large and medium mixing bowl
spatula
3 mini loaf pans (5 1/2" x 3 1/2")


ingredients:
3/4 c. softened (unsalted) butter
3/4 c. sugar
2 eggs
1/2 c. orange juice (i used pulp free, but i'm sure it does not matter)
1/2 c. sour cream (i used lean)
1 T. orange zest
1 t. vanilla extract
2 c. flour
1/2 T. baking powder
1/4 t. salt
1 and 1/2 c. dried cranberries (craisins)


steps:
1.) preheat oven to 330 degrees (yes, i know it's a weird number, but it works).

2.) cream butter and sugar in standing mixer about 3 minutes or until pale and fluffy.

3.) add eggs, one at a time, making sure they are well mixed before proceeding.

4.) add orange juice, sour cream, orange zest, and vanilla extract until well blended.

5.) in a separate bowl, stir together dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, and salt). add to wet ingredients.

6.) fold in dried cranberries. *NOTE: i personally am not a "nut in my bread" kind of gal. if you are, however, i would recommend using 1 c. craisins, and 1/2 c. chopped pecans or walnuts.*

7.) pour into greased loaf pans. bake for 55-60 mins at 330, or until toothpick comes out clean. let cool for 10 minutes, and transfer to cooling rack


glaze:
1 c. powdered sugar
1 T. orange juice

add orange juice (or orange liqueur?) to powdered sugar 1 t. at time until mix has the consistency of melted wax. poke holes in top of loaves, and spoon glaze over top.


total time: 1.5 hours
difficulty: 2 (1 being easiest, 5 being hardest)
rating: ♦♦♦♦1/2◊ (4.5 out of 5)

enjoy!
-kl