Spelt Cranberry and Orange Loaf

Servings: 10 Total Time: 55 mins Difficulty: Beginner
Soft, bright, and citrus-sweet with a natural spelt warmth
Spelt Cranberry and Orange Loaf on a wooden board. View Gallery 3 photos

A Bright and Comforting Loaf

This Spelt Cranberry and Orange Loaf gives a soft, moist crumb with a fresh citrus lift. The spelt flour adds a mild nutty tone that balances the sweetness. Dried cranberries offer small bursts of flavour throughout the loaf. It bakes evenly, slices neatly, and keeps its softness for days. It works well for breakfast, tea breaks, or a simple afternoon treat.

Why This Loaf Works

Spelt flour holds moisture well, giving a tender texture. Orange zest and juice add strong flavour without making the loaf too wet. Cranberries cut through the sweetness with a slight tart edge. The loaf needs only one bowl and a quick mix. It suits new bakers and anyone who prefers simple, reliable recipes.

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 10 mins Cook Time 45 mins Total Time 55 mins
Servings: 10 Estimated Cost: £ 4 Calories: 220
Best Season: Winter, Fall

Description

A soft and fragrant loaf made with spelt flour, dried cranberries, and fresh orange zest. This loaf stays moist, slices cleanly, and delivers a balanced mix of sweetness and citrus brightness. Ideal for breakfast or tea-time.

Ingredients

Cooking Mode Disabled

Loaf Batter

Instructions

Prepare the tin.

  1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a loaf tin with baking paper.

Mix wet ingredients.

  1. Combine melted butter, milk, eggs, orange zest, and orange juice.

Add dry ingredients.

  1. Stir in spelt flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Fold in cranberries.

  1. Mix gently to keep the batter light.

Fill the tin.

  1. Pour the batter into the loaf tin and level the top.

Bake.

  1. Bake for 40–45 minutes until a skewer comes out clean.

Cool.

  1. Rest in the tin for 10 minutes, then move to a rack to cool fully.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 10


Amount Per Serving
Calories 220kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 7g11%
Saturated Fat 4g20%
Cholesterol 43mg15%
Sodium 130mg6%
Potassium 110mg4%
Total Carbohydrate 35g12%
Dietary Fiber 2g8%
Sugars 18g
Protein 4g8%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Additional Notes

  • Do not overmix the batter; small lumps are fine.
  • Use fresh, bright oranges for the strongest flavour.
  • If the top browns too fast, cover loosely with foil.

Optional Substitutions & Variations

  • Swap cranberries for raisins or chopped dried apricots.
  • Add 1 tbsp poppy seeds for texture.
  • Use half spelt, half plain flour for a lighter crumb.
  • Add a simple orange glaze for extra sweetness.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

  • Store at room temperature for 3 days in an airtight container.
  • Freeze slices for up to 2 months.
  • Warm slices lightly for a fresh-baked feel.
Keywords: spelt loaf, cranberry orange, easy bake, citrus loaf

Tips & Variations

Spelt flour absorbs liquid well and helps keep the loaf tender.

Fresh citrus lifts the loaf and prevents it from feeling heavy.

More Ideas

  • Add chopped nuts for crunch.
  • Serve with butter or yoghurt.
  • Turn it into muffins by reducing bake time to 18 minutes.

Conclusion

This Spelt Cranberry and Orange Loaf is soft, fragrant, and simple to prepare. It brings together citrus brightness and gentle spelt warmth. It suits quiet mornings, quick snacks, or tea-time treats. Try it warm or cooled, and enjoy how easy it is to bake and share.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?

Yes, but reduce milk by 1 tbsp.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Use plant milk and dairy-free butter.

Can I reduce the sugar?

Yes, reduce by 25 g without affecting texture.

Why is my loaf dense?

Too much mixing. Stir only until combined.

Can I add more orange flavour?

Add an extra teaspoon of zest or a splash of orange extract.

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