🎄 Cranberry Orange Almond Loaf (Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free)

There’s something magical about the smell of citrus and cranberries baking in the oven during the holidays. It instantly makes the house feel warmer, the music a little cozier, and the season a little more special. This Cranberry Orange Almond Loaf was born out of one of those slow December mornings—holiday music playing, fuzzy socks on, and the kind of quiet that only exists when the year is winding down.

I wanted a treat that felt festive but not fussy, something you could slice for brunch, wrap up as a hostess gift, or enjoy with a mug of something warm while the lights twinkle on the tree. This loaf delivers bright orange flavor, pops of tart cranberry, and a soft, tender crumb—without gluten or dairy. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like a celebration but fits beautifully into a feel-good lifestyle.

Why You’ll Love This Holiday Loaf

• Naturally gluten-free and dairy-free

• Perfect for holiday brunches, gifting, or dessert

• Bright, cozy flavors that feel like the holidays in every bite

• Simple enough for busy December days

🍊 Cranberry Orange Almond Loaf (GF & DF)

Ingredients

• Almond flour

• Tapioca flour or arrowroot starch

• Baking powder

• Baking soda

• Salt

• Fresh orange zest

• Orange juice

• Eggs

• Maple syrup or honey

• Coconut oil, melted

• Vanilla extract

• Fresh or frozen cranberries

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a loaf pan with parchment paper.

2. In a large bowl, whisk together the almond flour, tapioca flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and orange zest.

3. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, orange juice, maple syrup (or honey), melted coconut oil, and vanilla until smooth.

4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.

5. Gently fold in the cranberries, being careful not to overmix.

6. Transfer the batter to the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.

7. Bake for 40–50 minutes, until golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

8. Allow the loaf to cool completely before slicing.

✨ Optional Festive Extras

• Drizzle with a simple orange-maple glaze for a bakery-style finish

• Sprinkle sliced almonds on top before baking for a little crunch

• Add a pinch of cinnamon for extra holiday warmth

This Cranberry Orange Almond Loaf is proof that holiday baking doesn’t have to be complicated to feel special. It’s bright, cozy, and just sweet enough—perfect for sharing, gifting, or savoring quietly by the glow of the tree.

If you bake this loaf, pour yourself something warm, take a deep breath, and enjoy a moment of holiday magic—you’ve earned it. 🎄✨