Tuesday, November 23, 2010

Cranberry Orange Bread and the Zip Line

I am not an adventurous person as I shared when I was whining the other week about doing the zip line I was dreading. I can do without the adrenaline rush of a thrill, for me those "thrills" just worry me to the point of no longer being capable of functioning and loss of sleep for a few days prior. I made up my mind to do this zip line thing after years of bugging from my adventurous husband, but I have to say that there were several times I didn't think I could go through with it.

We arrived to the smiling faces of the natives and I signed all kinds of waivers...that told me about all of the crazy injuries that could occur. I was suited up...in some very awkward gear that was so tight it felt like it was going to rip my running shorts, but I guess this was so I wouldn't fall out. I hopped in the back of a truck and we headed up a mountain...on a dirt road...adventure enough already. Then I climbed up the rest of the mountain by foot...straight up baby...I am used to running quite a bit...but this...this had me thoroughly out of breath! From there I climbed up a tree...so we were very high at this point...and remember I am afraid of heights.

That is about the time I wanted to cry like a baby and back out. Problem was...there was no way back except zipping down the mountain. I was brave and just went for it...I didn't want to embarrass my husband by crying. I was so proud of my accomplishment. I conquered my fear and actually had a good time.

On to a great recipe you must put on your holiday baking list! This cranberry orange bread is the best ever. Much like honey and lime, cranberry and orange have such an affinity. Some flavors were just meant to be together.

I love to make this around the holiday's when cranberries are abundant and inexpensive. My loaves are usually frozen and saved for Christmas gifts. I love that it is something different to give. Everyone gives cookies and candy...be unique and adventurous and give out cranberry-orange bread!!


2 cups flour
1 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup sugar
3/4 cup orange juice
1 Tablespoon orange zest
2 Tablespoons shortening
1 egg, lightly beaten
1 cup cranberries, halved

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

In a large bowl sift together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt and sugar.

Add orange juice, zest, shortening and egg and mix well. Fold in cranberries.

Pour batter into a greased 9x5x3 inch loaf pan. Bake in a preheated oven 1 hour or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. Remove from oven and turn out of pan.

6 comments:

Tightwad Mom said...

I'm proud of you to conquer your fear like that! I am a big sissy pants when it comes to heights. Your cranberry bread sounds delicious! I have been debating what kind of quick bread to bake for holiday baskets. This will be perfect!

ChicoryChick said...

Great job on the Zipline. Thanks for visiting my blog.

I make a recipe very similar to this (except I also add raisins), my dh loves it. I love the idea of making it a head of time and freezing it. :D

Kimi said...

I knew you could do it!! Better you than me!! Although I have thought about it. This bread sounds wonderful and something I could even make!! Great gift idea!! Thanks!!

Katie said...

@Tightwad Mom- it is so awesome for gifts...not too common. Let me know how you like it if you get a chance to make it!

@Kay- it freezer wonderfully...which will save you a ton of time during the busy season!

@Kimi- of course you could make the bread :) it is super easy!!

Bekki Morris said...

I'm going to have to try this bread. I'm sure cranberries are going to be super cheap now that the holiday is over.
I also just realized from looking at your zipline photo that I know who your husband is. Our dad's used to work together years ago (Measurex). What a small world- your mother-in-law is a sweetie! :-)

Katie said...

Bekki,

If you happen to have an Aldi around you they have cranberries for $.99...which is as low as I have seen them. I bought 7 bags for the freezer!

What a small world! So funny that you know Daniel's family!

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