Cranberry Orange Loaf

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup butter, melted
• 1 cup white sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon orange extract
• Zest of 1 orange
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, cream together butter and sugar until smooth. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in orange extract and zest.
3. Combine flour, baking powder, and salt; stir into the creamed mixture alternately with orange juice. Fold in cranberries. Pour batter into prepared pan.
4. Bake in preheated oven for 45 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean. Let cool in pan for 10 minutes before removing to cool completely.

Interesting Facts

• Cranberries are high in antioxidants and have been linked to a number of health benefits.
• Orange zest adds a wonderful flavor to dishes, but can also be used as a natural air freshener.
• Using orange juice and zest in baking adds a wonderful natural sweetness to the dish.