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You are here: Home / Recipes / Bread / Sourdough / Cranberry Orange Sourdough Bread

Cranberry Orange Sourdough Bread

5 stars (from 39 ratings)
By Traci York — Updated December 9, 2025 — 82 Comments / Jump to Recipe
This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my affiliate policy.

Cranberry Orange Sourdough Bread features fresh orange zest and juice, plump dried cranberries and is naturally sweetened with honey or maple syrup! Make cranberry sourdough bread with a doubled in size Sourdough Bread Starter. It’s a delight shared toasted with a slather of butter. This recipe is vegetarian or vegan.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Review: “I do believe this is the most delicious bread I’ve ever made & I’ve made a whole lot of breads.” ~ Katherine 

Orange and Cranberry Sourdough Bread sliced and buttered on a plate.

Cranberry Sourdough Bread with Orange

A classic flavor pairing like these Cranberry Orange Sourdough Scones, this sourdough bread recipe is a seasonal delight. Fresh orange juice and zest offer a sunny, citrusy loaf with tangy and tart dried cranberries. 

This Sourdough Recipe Is

  • tender and delicious, crispy crust when toasted
  • bright and citrusy 
  • simple to make
  • naturally sweetened

If you love homemade Sourdough Bread Recipes, you’ll love this flavorful breakfast loaf.

Cranberry Sourdough Bread Ingredients.

About the Key Ingredients

  • Sourdough Bread Starter: you’ll use a ripe, doubled in size, active sourdough starter. I use 100% hydration. 
  • Bread Flour with a Touch of Whole Wheat Flour: bread flour gives this loaf structure with a tender crumb. A touch of whole wheat flour offers a bit of rustic and earthy flavor. 
  • Honey or Maple Syrup: use either in this sourdough cranberry bread for a touch of sweetness, and it aids in softening the loaf. 
  • Orange Zest and Juice: using both in this cranberry orange loaf brings out a lovely citrus fragrance and light orange flavor. I love Cara Cara orange in this recipe!
  • Dried Cranberries: opt for apple juice sweetened cranberries for best flavor. I find sugar sweetened cranberries to be a little too sweet in this recipe. Find apple juice sweetened cranberries in the bulk bins for best value. You can use unsweetened cranberries, for a more tart experience! 
Four images showing how to mix cranberry orange sourdough bread.

At a Glance: How to Make Cranberry Orange Sourdough Bread 

  • First, whisk the starter, water, orange zest and juice, and maple syrup or honey.
  • Second, to the wet ingredients, add the bread flour, whole wheat flour, and salt.
  • Third, cover and rest the dough for 30 minutes. Meanwhile chop the cranberries. 
  • Fourth, fold in the cranberries. Allow the dough to rest for 30 minutes. 
  • Fifth, fold the dough one to two more times with a 30 minute rest in between. \
  • Next, bulk ferment overnight.
  • Last, shape the dough, proof for one to two hours, then bake!

The aromas wafting through the house is such a delight!! Allow the cranberry sourdough bread to cool, then slice. This cranberry sourdough bread is best toasted, slathered with butter.

Four images showing how to mix the wet and dry ingredients together for this Sourdough cranberry orange bread.

How to Store Sourdough Bread

Store your sourdough bread, cut side down on a cutting board for up to three days at room temperature. 

How to Freeze Sourdough Bread

Slice your bread, then store it in a freezer safe bag for up to two weeks. When you’re ready to enjoy, this bread goes from freezer to toaster in a snap! 

Four images showing how the cranberries are folded into the dough.

Example Baker’s Schedule

Since this bread has a fair amount of sugar in it, bulk fermentation is long. Give yourself plenty of time and allow the dough to fully double in size before shaping and panning. Here’s an example schedule:

  • Friday: Feed your starter and allow it to ripen, or double in size. 
  • Saturday Morning: Mix the dough, fold in the cranberries, do one or two more folds, then allow the dough to double in size. At 68F, this will take about 12-15 hours. 
  • Saturday Night: Shape, pan and proof the dough, then bake. Proofing will take about 1-2 hours. 

Speed this process along by putting the dough, covered, in a turned off oven with the light on. Using this method, I can get this dough to ferment in about 10-12 hours and proof in about an hour. 

Four images showing how the cranberry orange sourdough is shaped.

When is the First Rise (bulk) Done?

Knowing when bulk fermentation is complete takes a little practice and a watchful eye. Bulk fermented dough is ready for shaping when:

  • it no longer looks or feels dense
  • is jiggly when the bowl is shaken
  • has about doubled in size
  • you’ll see a few large bubbles just below and on the surface of the dough

When is the Second Rise (proof) Done?

For this cranberry sourdough bread recipe, when the dough has risen in the loaf pan to about 1″- 1 1/4″ (2.5cm – 3cm) above the lip of the pan at the center. Have a ruler ready for this part! The amount of time it takes to proof will vary depending on ambient temperature. At 68F (20C) proofing takes about one to two hours.

If you’d like to speed this process along, you can put the loaf in a turned off oven with the light on. Just be sure to remove the loaf before preheating your oven for baking! 

Four images showing how the cranberry orange sourdough is shaped.
Two images showing a before and after bake of the sourdough bread.

Sourdough Bread Making Tools

In addition to a large stainless steel or ceramic mixing bowl to ferment the dough, these are some of my favorite tools to make sourdough bread (affiliate links).

  • 9 inch x 5 inch (23cm x 12cm) Loaf Pan – this one is similar to the one I use 
  • Bench Scraper – to handle the dough and for quick and easy cleanup
  • Internal Temperature: to know when the bread is done baking, check the internal temperature using a digital food thermometer. The loaf should read between 190 – 205 Fahrenheit (87 – 96 Celsius) when done.
  • Kitchen Tools: I recommend a digital oven thermometer and weighing your ingredients using a digital kitchen scale for the best outcome.
  • Bowl Bonnets – so handy and durable! For bread making, I wet the bonnet and cover the bowl. Then I drape the bowl with a moist tea towel. This keeps the dough moist and I don’t have to use plastic. 
Cranberry Sourdough Bread sliced on a cutting board with a side of butter.

Traci’s Tips

  • About the Flour: This recipe calls for unbleached bread flour and a touch of whole wheat flour. You can use all bread flour if desired. 
  • Cranberries: I find sugar-sweetened cranberries to be overly sweet. Be sure to look for apple juice-sweetened cranberries in bulk bins or on Amazon. They’re just lightly sweet.  
  • Pro Tip: If your cranberries seem dried out, you can soften and plump them up by soaking them in hot water for about 10 minutes. Drain and pat dry before using them in the recipe.
Cranberry Sourdough Bread sliced on a plate.
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Soft Homemade Cranberry Orange Sourdough Bread Recipe

Prep Time:20 minutes minutes
Cook Time:55 minutes minutes
Ferment/Proof:13 hours hours
Total Time:14 hours hours 15 minutes minutes
Servings:12 Slices
Calories:225kcal
Author:Traci York
**Advanced Prep Required – you'll need a sourdough starter**
Cranberry Orange Sourdough Bread features fresh orange zest and juice, plump dried cranberries and is naturally sweetened with honey or maple syrup. Make with a doubled in size Sourdough Bread Starter, this bread is a delight shared toasted with a slather of butter. This recipe is vegetarian or vegan. 
_______________
Example Bakers Schedule:
Friday Evening: feed starter.
Saturday Morning: mix dough and bulk ferment.
Saturday Evening: shape, allow to rise (proof) and bake.
________________
Serving size depends on how thick or thin the loaf is sliced. I can get about 12 thick slices or 15-16 thiner slices out of this loaf.
(keep screen awake)

Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup (50 grams) Sourdough Starter 100% hydration, previously fed, doubled in size
  • 1 1/4 cup (270 grams) Water 80 degrees fahrenheit (26 celsius)
  • 1 tablespoon Orange Zest from about three large oranges, like Cara Cara
  • 1/3 cup (75 grams) Orange Juice fresh squeezed
  • 5 tablespoons (95 grams) Honey or maple syrup* (see note)
  • 3 1/2 cups + 3 tablespoons (475 grams) Unbleached Bread Flour
  • 1/4 cup + 1 tablespoon (50 grams) Whole Wheat Flour stone ground
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons (9 grams) Fine Sea Salt
  • 1 cup (145 grams) Dried Cranberries apple juice sweetened**, rough chopped

Instructions

  • Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, using a fork, mix the sourdough starter, water, orange zest and juice, and honey.
  • To the wet ingredients, add the bread flour, whole wheat flour and salt. First, mix with a fork, the dough will be shaggy. Then mix by hand, mixing, folding and pushing the dough until the flour is fully incorporated and no dry bits are present. The dough will seem dry at first, but the more you work the dough, the more hydrated it will become. 
    The dough will feel stiff and it will stick to your fingers as you go. Do this for about 3-4 minutes. Then, use the fork to scrape the dough off your fingers as much as you can. Cover the bowl with a damp tea towel.
    Set a timer for for 30 minutes and allow the dough to rest for 30 minutes. Now is a good time to feed/refresh your starter. 
  • Add the Cranberries: After the dough has rested, mix in the cranberries. To do this, add the cranberries to the dough in three additions. Dump 1/3 of the cranberries on top of the dough and begin folding the dough over and on top of itself, about four times, incorporating the cranberries. Do this two more times until there are no remaining cranberries. Do this for about 2-3 minutes or until the cranberries are evenly distributed in the dough. The dough will be stiffer, and sticky. 
    Cover bowl with a damp tea towel, set a timer for 30 minutes and allow the dough to rest for 30 minutes.
  • Fold the Dough: After the dough has rested, fold the dough. To do this, grab a portion of the dough while it remains in the bowl, stretch it up and fold it over, pressing your fingertips into the opposite side of the dough. You'll notice the dough is a little less stiff and more workable at this point. Repeat, until you've worked your way around the dough.
    This is the first fold. You can stop here and begin bulk fermentation, but If time permits, and optimally, you'll want to repeat this fold one to two more times as it improves the final dough's structure and crumb. Allow for about 30 minutes between the second and third fold. 
  • Bulk Fermentation (first rise): After the last fold, cover the bowl with two damp tea towels and allow to rise overnight at room temperature. This will take about 12-15 hours at 68F (20C). You can speed this along by putting the dough in a turned off oven with the light on. This way the dough will ferment in about 10-12 hours. Use the time as a guide and not a determining factor.
    The dough is ready when it no longer looks dense, is jiggly when the bowl is shaken, and has about doubled in size.
  • Shape the Dough: With damp fingertips, coax the dough into a floured work-surface. Take a portion of the dough, gently stretch it towards you and fold it over towards the center, pressing it down gently. Repeat this process until you work the dough all the way around the dough. Using a bench scraper flip the dough over, cover with a tea towel rest the dough for 10-15 minutes. 
    While the dough rests, throughly coat the inside of a 9×5" (23cm X 12cm) loaf pan with olive or coconut oil. Set aside.
    Flour your work surface and using a bench scraper flip the dough back over. Use the photos in the blog post to help guide shaping. Gently shape the dough into a rough rectangle by tugging on the ends and by dimpling the dough (think focaccia), to roughly 6" wide and 8-10" long (use the length of your bread pan to guide shaping). Starting at the long end, roll the dough up, like a cinnamon roll, and pinch the seam. I like to remove any cranberries on the surface and nudge them underneath the dough because they tend to burn if allowed to stay on top.
    Arrange the dough so that the seam is on the bottom. Rock it back and fourth a bit and gently fluff the ends in towards the center of the bread. Scrape your work surface area of any excess flour and very lightly spritz it with water. Place the dough on the spritz of water (seam side down) and using lightly floured hands, cup the back of the dough and gently pull it towards you until the surface is taught. Gently "fluff" the ends in again if needed to fit into the loaf pan.
    Once the surface is taut and with one swift move, use the bench scraper to scoop the dough up and, place the dough into the prepared loaf pan. If there's any misshapen edges that need tucking in, use a moist rubber spatula to gently finesse and shape the edges of the dough down into the pan.
  • Proof the Dough (second rise): Cover the pan with a damp tea towel and allow the dough to rise until the dough rises to about 1"- 1 1/4" (2.5cm – 3.2cm) above the lip of the pan at the center of the dough. The amount of time will vary depending on ambient temperature. At 68F (20C) proofing takes about an hour and a half to two hours. In an turned off oven with the light on, about an hour.
    Set an oven rack in the center of the oven. Preheat your oven to 400F (204C).
  • Bake the Dough: Place the loaf into the preheated oven and then, reduce the oven temperature to 375F (290C). **Bake for 25 minutes, then take a large piece of foil and tent the bread, otherwise it will get too dark**. Continue baking for another 20-30 minutes, for a total bake of 45-55 minutes. The bread is ready when the internal temperature of the loaf is between 190F – 205F (87C – 96C) and the surface of the dough is dark golden brown.
    Transfer to a wire rack. Cool for 10 minutes in the pan. Remove the bread, then transfer to a cooling rack. Cool 1 hour before slicing.
  • Storage Notes: Sourdough is best consumed on the same day it's baked, but it lasts for 3-4 days stored at room temperature.  Store at room temperature cut side down on a cutting board.
    This bread freezes beautifully. Store sliced bread in a freezer bag for up to two weeks. Thaw at room temperature. This bread can go straight from freezer to toaster to make the most delicious toast!

Notes

*Honey or Maple Syrup: if using honey, you’ll need to tent the bread, otherwise it gets too dark. If using maple, there’s no need to tent.
**Dried Cranberries: opt for apple juice-sweetened cranberries for best flavor. I find sugar-sweetened cranberries to be a little too sweet in this recipe. Find apple juice-sweetened cranberries in the bulk bins for best value. You can use unsweetened cranberries for a tarter experience! 
Nutrition is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate. If this information is important to you, please have it verified independently.
Serving: 1slice, | Calories: 225kcal | Carbohydrates: 50g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 0.1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Sodium: 294mg | Potassium: 78mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 16g | Vitamin A: 16IU | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 11mg | Iron: 1mg
Made It? Leave a comment below! The most helpful comment may include recipe rating, feedback, any modifications and/or helping other commenters. On Instagram? Take a snap of your make and share, tagging @VanillaAndBean #VanillaAndBean!

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  1. Avatar for Maheswari AparajithanMaheswari Aparajithan

    April 22, 2026 at 9:38 am

    5 stars
    I love this recipe and have been making it many times. My bread turns darker in color any reason for it? Appreciate your input thanks!

    Reply
    • Avatar for Traci YorkTraci York

      April 22, 2026 at 9:56 am

      Hi Maheswari! Thank you for your note! If using honey, you’ll need to tent the bread about half way through baking, otherwise it gets too dark. If using maple, there’s no need to tent, but you may want to if preferred. SO glad you’re enjoying the sourdough!

      Reply
  2. Avatar for SherrySherry

    December 29, 2025 at 10:29 am

    5 stars
    This bread is perfect. Beat my expectations. I used what I had; clementine oranges and ocean spray dried cranberries. Just the right amount of sweetness with great orange flavor. It reminds me of cranberry orange muffins but the bread is less sweet and doesn’t sit like a lead block in the bottom of the stomach

    Reply
    • Avatar for Traci YorkTraci York

      December 29, 2025 at 12:26 pm

      Thank you for your note and giving a new recipe a go, Sherry! So glad it exceeded your expectations!

      Reply
  3. Avatar for Jane FaughtJane Faught

    December 15, 2025 at 9:01 am

    Hi! I am wondering if you could divide this up and make it into mini loaves as gifts? I would separate after the bulk fermentation. Also, am I missing it in your recipe or do you not “laminate” the dough? I am excited to try this :)

    Reply
    • Avatar for Traci YorkTraci York

      December 15, 2025 at 10:12 am

      Hi Jane! I love this idea, but haven’t tried it. Separating after bulk is the route I’d take too. Portioning would depend on the size of your mini pans… If you’re up for experimenting, I’d divide one piece of dough, shape it, and test it in the pan. I’m thinking it should be about 1/2 inch below the lip of the pan. Let it proof to maybe 1/2″ to 3/4″ above the lip at center, then bake. The bake will be shorter. Just keep an eye on color and internal temperature. There’s no lamination for this dough – just work the cranberries into the mix after you mix and rest the dough. Please keep up posted if you experiment!

      Reply
      • Avatar for JaneJane

        December 19, 2025 at 11:54 am

        5 stars
        Hi Traci! I have made 36 mini loaves from your recipe this week for friends, teachers, etc.. I love the recipe! I doubled it and added everything all at the same time and did 2-3 stretch & folds. Let bulk ferment & then divided out and it made 8 minis at 320-340 grams each. I preheated at 500 with Dutch oven & baked at 450 for 20 minutes-then 7-10 minutes uncovered. Thank you!!

        Reply
        • Avatar for Traci YorkTraci York

          December 19, 2025 at 12:47 pm

          Hi Jane! Oh my goodness, thank you for sharing how you approached baking the minis! What a wonderful gift for friends, teachers, etc. SO glad you’re enjoying it and, thank you for sending a smile (I needed that!)!

          Reply
  4. Avatar for AshleyAshley

    November 27, 2025 at 9:08 am

    I notice you only use 50g of starter. In most recipes it calls for at least 100g. Does this affect the bulking time?

    Reply
    • Avatar for Traci YorkTraci York

      November 27, 2025 at 9:39 am

      Hi Ashley! The amount of starter can affect the bulk fermentation time, and recipes do vary. It’s another variable in the sourdough lexicon! Longer fermentation = more sourdough flavor. This is a tool bakers use to influence the flavor of their bread. If you’d like to increase the starter, adjust the flour and water in the recipe to account for the additional starter (adjust according to your starter hydration).

      Reply
  5. Avatar for Maureen WasilieffMaureen Wasilieff

    September 25, 2025 at 9:01 pm

    5 stars
    It was the best recipe by far! It’s better in a loaf pan as opposed to Freeform. I tried that and it was good but like the size a loaf pan creates!

    Reply
  6. Avatar for Cary WagnerCary Wagner

    September 13, 2025 at 7:02 am

    5 stars
    This is an amazing recipe! I actually let it bulk ferment for about 8 hours, shaped into a boule and let it cold proof for about another 8 hours. I let it sit on the counter for an hour before baking in a Dutch oven @ 450 for 25 min, then removed the lid and baked another 25 min at 425, it came out absolutely perfect!

    Reply
    • Avatar for Traci YorkTraci York

      September 13, 2025 at 10:05 am

      Thank you for your note, Cary! Love hearing this and, thank you for sharing your DO tips!

      Reply
  7. Avatar for LuanaLuana

    June 25, 2025 at 9:18 am

    I’m confused about the proofing times. In the blog post, it says 12-15 hours. But in the recipe it says 10-15 minutes. What is the correct time?

    Reply
    • Avatar for Traci YorkTraci York

      June 26, 2025 at 9:06 am

      Hi Luana! Bulk fermentation (first rise) is 12-15 hours, in step 5. The 10-15 minutes you refer to is for what’s known as a bench rest after you shape the dough, in step 6. Proof time (second rise) for this dough is about 1 1/2 – 2 hours, in step 7.

      Reply
  8. Avatar for ShellyShelly

    June 15, 2025 at 1:33 pm

    5 stars
    I made this last night. There is absolutely NOTHING I would change about the recipe.
    This. Is. Phenomenal!

    Reply
    • Avatar for Traci YorkTraci York

      June 16, 2025 at 4:27 pm

      Thank youuuuu for sending a smile, Shelly and giving a new sourdough recipe a go! SO happy to hear!

      Reply
  9. Avatar for ChiyoChiyo

    April 6, 2025 at 7:54 am

    Hi, I’m going to bake this! I’m wondering if I don’t need a Dutch Oven…?

    Reply
    • Avatar for Traci YorkTraci York

      April 6, 2025 at 11:43 am

      Hi Chiyo! This loaf is baked in a loaf pan, so you do not need a Dutch Oven. Keep us posted, okay?

      Reply
      • Avatar for ChiyoChiyo

        April 6, 2025 at 8:26 pm

        5 stars
        Thank you for your response!

        It was actually a last-minute question, so I baked in the Dutch Oven.(450F for 25min, 400F for 13min)
        I’ve baked various sourdough bread (bagels, English muffins, dinner rolls etc.) I I followed my regular sourgoudh bread-method, using your ingredients.

        It was lovely! I think I will bake this for special occasion like Christmas :)

        Reply
        • Avatar for Traci YorkTraci York

          April 6, 2025 at 9:15 pm

          Love hearing this, Chiyo! Thank you for your note and DO tip!

          Reply
  10. Avatar for DodieDodie

    March 12, 2025 at 1:17 pm

    5 stars
    Hubby and I were addicted to Costco’s cranberry walnut bread and would buy 4 at a time. So grateful for your outstanding recipe. I did shape mine into a boule and added almost a cup of chpd walnuts. Can’t believe how good this bread is! Can easily eat the whole loaf myself!!! Best sourdough bread I’ve made! Thank you, thank you!!! Please create savory ones like roasted garlic, spinach feta, rosemary-caramelized onion, and everything in between. Lots of sweet recipes out there but some of us want some savory ones to accompany soups and stews. Again, thank you! 😋

    Reply
    • Avatar for Traci YorkTraci York

      March 12, 2025 at 1:23 pm

      Thank you for your note, Dodi and sending a smile! Best news ever, that you’re making homemade (yes!)! Love the added walnuts (yum) and shaped into a boule… Thank you too for your suggestions!

      Reply
  11. Avatar for Mary C OstazeskiMary C Ostazeski

    March 2, 2025 at 4:34 pm

    5 stars
    Absolutely love this recipe. As a fairy new sourdough baker this is hands down the recipe I’ve had the most success with. Thank you so much!♥️

    Reply
    • Avatar for Traci YorkTraci York

      March 3, 2025 at 12:09 pm

      Hi Mary! SO happy to read your note. Thank you! Sourdough success; hooray!

      Reply
  12. Avatar for JanJan

    February 22, 2025 at 12:41 pm

    Can you double this recipe? This is my first time with your recipe. Can’t wait to get started

    Reply
    • Avatar for Traci YorkTraci York

      February 22, 2025 at 10:00 pm

      Hi Jan! I’ve not doubled this recipe, so I’m not sure. If you give it a go, please keep us posted!

      Reply
  13. Avatar for Annie BalijaAnnie Balija

    February 20, 2025 at 1:57 pm

    I’ve made this recipe several times. I love the flavor, but the dough is always too sticky instead of firm and the center comes out doughy. What am I doing wrong? It always has a good rise and a good crumb but feels undercooked in the middle of the loaf

    Reply
    • Avatar for Traci YorkTraci York

      February 20, 2025 at 5:34 pm

      Hi Annie! This dough is a stickier dough to work with, however, I’m curious if you’re employing an external oven thermometer to know the true temperature of the oven. Also, are you taking the internal temperature of the bread before removing it from the oven? A food thermometer reads 190F – 205F when the bread is done.

      Reply
  14. Avatar for CathyCathy

    January 19, 2025 at 6:40 pm

    5 stars
    I’ve tried a couple different Cranberry-Orange loaves, and this one was the most succesful and flavorful by far. So happy to have found it. I won’t tell you how many pieces I ate today

    Reply
    • Avatar for Traci YorkTraci York

      January 20, 2025 at 2:13 pm

      Thank you for your note, Cathy! And, giving a new sourdough recipe a go. YAY!

      Reply
  15. Avatar for KathyKathy

    November 28, 2024 at 11:11 pm

    5 stars
    Excellent recipe and delicious bread, tried it for the first time, I didn’t have any oranges so didn’t have any zest, used bottled OJ without pulp. A definite keeper!

    Reply
  16. Avatar for TaraTara

    October 16, 2024 at 9:18 pm

    5 stars
    Hi. When it comes to bake the cranberry orange bread , I have been baking plain sour dough with lid on first then removing lid for the last half of baking as inwas taught. Can instillmdonit this way or do I need to bake it open first then cover as per your directions. Also ….do I need tonscore the top of the loaf

    Reply
    • Avatar for Traci YorkTraci York

      October 17, 2024 at 12:04 pm

      Hi Tara! You can bake this loaf in a Dutch oven. Shape a boule, proof in a banneton at room temperature until puffy (about 30 minutes in a 68F kitchen). Turn the dough out onto parchment paper, score, then bake in the Dutch oven lidded for about 25 minutes. Remove the lid and finish baking until an internal thermometor reads 190-205F. Let us know how it goes, okay?

      Reply
      • Avatar for TaraTara

        October 17, 2024 at 11:01 pm

        5 stars
        The loaf came out amazing. It’s already completely gone from everyone e loving it. I found it a bit sweet so I’ll cut back on honey next time.e but my family lived it .

        Reply
        • Avatar for Traci YorkTraci York

          October 18, 2024 at 10:00 am

          That’s fantastic news, Tara! So happy to hear. I appreciate your note, and sending a smile!

          Reply
  17. Avatar for Jillian Brianna SenJillian Brianna Sen

    August 28, 2024 at 1:12 pm

    adding in the cranberries was a bit tough for me. They keep popping out and my dough is getting pretty stiff. Any pointers?

    Reply
    • Avatar for Traci YorkTraci York

      August 28, 2024 at 2:01 pm

      Hi Jillian! After folding in the cranberries, the dough will be stiff. However, when you perform the next fold, the dough will be more relaxed and so, the cranberries will be incorporated/redistributed again. If they pop out when you shape the dough, I either remove them from the top and poke em’ in on the bottom, or just poke em’ back in. I hope this helps and you enjoy the sourdough!

      Reply
      • Avatar for Jillian SenJillian Sen

        August 28, 2024 at 2:42 pm

        The dough was increasingly tough throughout the four rounds of stretch and folds. She is now fermenting on the counter, so we will see how things go in the morning. I’m really excited and have very high hopes!

        Reply
  18. Avatar for KarenKaren

    August 6, 2024 at 5:44 pm

    5 stars
    This is always a hit! I always make 3 loaves as long as I’m going to the trouble of heating up my oven. I slice the extra loaves and flash freeze each slice on a cookie sheet before reassembling it back into a bread bag. Pulling out a slice or two for toast or a snack is a dream this way. Everyone always wants the recipe. Thanks for a winner!!

    Reply
    • Avatar for Traci YorkTraci York

      August 7, 2024 at 11:59 am

      Thank you for your note and freezer storage tip, Karen! SO glad you’re enjoying the sourdough – hooray for three!

      Reply
  19. Avatar for JamieJamie

    June 11, 2024 at 2:17 pm

    If I used this recipe for cinnamon raisin bread instead of orange cranberry would I add more water to equal the amount of orange juice in original recipe?

    Reply
    • Avatar for Traci YorkTraci York

      June 11, 2024 at 2:20 pm

      Hi Jamie! I assume that would be fine, and that’s where I’d start too. A cinnamon raisin bread is on my list! Let us know how it goes.

      Reply
      • Avatar for JamieJamie

        June 11, 2024 at 2:49 pm

        Thank you…I will.

        Reply
  20. Avatar for JenniferJennifer

    April 15, 2024 at 7:50 pm

    5 stars
    Could you make this recipe into rolls instead I’d a loaf. I was thinking it would be a nice grab and go breakfast.

    Reply
    • Avatar for Traci YorkTraci York

      April 18, 2024 at 5:03 pm

      Hi Jennifer! Yes… follow my Sourdough Rolls recipe for shaping and baking, tucking in any cranberries that are on top so they don’t burn. Also, if the rolls start getting too dark, tent with foil. I hope this helps!

      Reply
  21. Avatar for LindaLinda

    February 20, 2024 at 6:27 am

    5 stars
    This bread turned out perfectly delicious! The crumb is spot on!!

    Reply
    • Avatar for Traci YorkTraci York

      February 20, 2024 at 9:28 am

      Hi Linda! Best news ever! Thank you for your note and five star review 😀

      Reply
  22. Avatar for Patricia YoungPatricia Young

    February 4, 2024 at 8:18 am

    5 stars
    This bread was so good! I have been struggling with a couple of other sourdough recipes and was so happy when I had a win with this one. Bread was light and fluffy on the inside and flakey on the outside. Now to stop myself from eating the whole loaf.

    Reply
  23. Avatar for SaundraSaundra

    February 4, 2024 at 8:12 am

    5 stars
    I would order this from a bakery! I swapped the honey for sugar and cut it in half since I used sweetened craisins. The bread is to die for! Also baked in a Dutch oven like other users. Definitely adding this to my make again list.

    Reply
  24. Avatar for Angela McIntyreAngela McIntyre

    January 29, 2024 at 3:36 pm

    5 stars
    This is one of my favorite recipe. My family all agree. Thank you for sharing

    Reply
  25. Avatar for JoanaJoana

    January 14, 2024 at 11:40 pm

    Hi!
    I would like to ask if it is possible to make this bread with regular dried yeast (and if yes, what should be the quantity)? (I live in a warm country and because of that I have a lot of problems with the sourdough starter – it spoils easily).

    Thank you!

    Reply
    • Avatar for Traci YorkTraci York

      January 15, 2024 at 11:07 am

      Hi Joana! You could, but you would need to adjust the water, maybe some of the orange juice due to the acidity that it introduces into the bread and like you said, add dried yeast. How much, I don’t know. If you experiment, please keep us posted!

      Reply
  26. Avatar for BarbBarb

    January 13, 2024 at 3:14 pm

    5 stars
    Great recipe – I made it exactly as the recipe is written. The first time I did it in a loaf pan and the second time I made it in a Dutch oven (with no changes to the temperature). I preferred the Dutch oven version. I used a banneton to shape it and preheated the Dutch oven and lid before placing the loaf in it to bake. I removed the lid after about 25 minutes to brown the top.

    Reply
    • Avatar for Traci YorkTraci York

      January 13, 2024 at 8:48 pm

      Hooray! Thank you for your note, and sharing your tips, Barb. SO happy you’re enjoying the sourdough!

      Reply
  27. Avatar for ErinErin

    January 5, 2024 at 5:27 pm

    5 stars
    I rarely comment on recipes, but this is really a wonderful bread! I used maple syrup, maybe 4 Tablespoons, and doubled it with no trouble. I am thinking about adding wild rice next time!

    Reply
  28. Avatar for Memento moriMemento mori

    December 21, 2023 at 6:20 pm

    5 stars
    Came out pretty amazing, I was lazy I made a double batch if dough before bed let it bulk ferment overnight than shaped for round banneton. Proofed in the fridge for 10hrs than baked in Dutch oven for 25 minutes at 375 removed the lid baked fir 20 more minutes at 450.

    Reply
    • Avatar for Traci YorkTraci York

      December 27, 2023 at 7:29 pm

      Hi Memento! Thank you for sharing your tips and star rating! Best news ever!

      Reply
    • Avatar for mjmj

      March 14, 2025 at 12:12 pm

      I would like to duplicate your method, using a cold retard after bulk fermentation. How much did your dough rise over nite during bulk fermentation (50%, 75%, or more)?
      Thanks!

      Reply
  29. Avatar for Sophie ShoresSophie Shores

    December 11, 2023 at 12:46 pm

    Could you use fresh cranberries in this recipe?

    Reply
    • Avatar for Traci YorkTraci York

      December 11, 2023 at 3:05 pm

      Hi Sophie, I’m thinking there’s not enough honey/maple in the bread to balance the tartness of the cranberries. If you give it a go, please let us know how they turn out 🙋🏻‍♀️

      Reply
  30. Avatar for Linda KreitzerLinda Kreitzer

    October 4, 2023 at 10:41 am

    5 stars
    Definitely 5 stars! Not only was the bread delicious but beautiful too. The only change I made was using 3 Tbsp of honey vs 5 Tbsp along with adding 1/2 tsp of cinnamon. I will be trying more of your recipes soon. Thank you!

    Reply
    • Avatar for Traci YorkTraci York

      October 4, 2023 at 1:26 pm

      Best news ever, Linda! Thank you for your note and giving the sourdough a go! Love that you added cinnamon – yum!

      Reply
  31. Avatar for WendyWendy

    September 8, 2023 at 4:54 pm

    Sounds fabulous! Could this be shaped and refrigerated overnight to proof, baking in the morning? If so, would you shape/proof/refrigerate and bake cold or shape/refrigerate and let sit out in the morning to proof before baking? Can’t wait to try it!

    Reply
    • Avatar for Traci YorkTraci York

      September 8, 2023 at 7:14 pm

      Hi Wendy! Thank you for your note. I’m afraid if you shape and refrigerate overnight to proof, it will overproof. You can try bulk fermenting to, instead of doubling in size, only fermenting to 50% in size, then shaping and proofing overnight in the fridge. It can go from fridge to oven. If you give it a go, please keep us posted! I hope you enjoy the sourdough!

      Reply
      • Avatar for WendyWendy

        September 8, 2023 at 7:23 pm

        Thanks so much for the quick reply. I’ll give that a go and keep you posted!

        Reply
        • Avatar for TaraTara

          October 16, 2024 at 10:06 am

          So , I’m new to making my own sour dough . This will be my 4th loaf . The dough seems rather wet ..wetter than just a regular loaf with no add ons. Is this normal ? Immworried I may have wrecked it as I did add a bit more flour although left it still a bit wetter / stickier than my other loaves were

          Reply
          • Avatar for Traci YorkTraci York

            October 16, 2024 at 11:48 am

            Hi Tara… this is a stickier loaf upon mixing, but as you do your stretch and folds, then eventually shape, the flour will be come hydrated and not as sticky. Let us know how your bread turns out, okay?

  32. Avatar for patpat

    June 16, 2023 at 9:24 pm

    The honey is left out of step one….

    Reply
    • Avatar for Traci YorkTraci York

      June 16, 2023 at 9:44 pm

      Thank you Pat! It’s fixed ❤️🙏🏻

      Reply
  33. Avatar for KatherineKatherine

    June 14, 2023 at 11:00 pm

    5 stars
    I do believe this is the most delicious bread I’ve ever made & I’ve made a whole lot of breads.

    Reply
    • Avatar for Traci YorkTraci York

      June 16, 2023 at 10:59 am

      Oh my gosh, Katherine, that is such good news!! You’ve made my day! Thank you for your note, giving the sourdough a go and five star review!

      Reply
  34. Avatar for AngAng

    April 27, 2023 at 8:18 am

    5 stars
    Thank you for sharing a great sourdough recipe ❤.
    I used bread flour and stone ground whole wheat flour. I somehow forgot to add the honey to the recipe, but it turned out great nonetheless. The cranberries I had on hand were sweetened (making the absence of the honey/ ‘sweetener’ less noticeable 🙂) and I plumped them in whiskey a few hours prior to adding them to the dough. The ratio and cranberry dispersement throughout the loaf is perfect. I baked the loaf by first preheating my oval dutch oven then popped the loaf tin right in the dutch oven covered for the first 25 minutes and uncovered for the last 28 minutes.
    The resulting bread is very aromatic, moist and irresistably tasty 🙂. Thank you!

    Reply
    • Avatar for Traci YorkTraci York

      April 29, 2023 at 7:26 pm

      Hi Ang! So wonderful to receive your note and five star review! Thank you for giving the sourdough a go, your tips regarding sweetened cranberries and no added honey… so happy it turned out and, in a Dutch oven. I’m going to try it!

      Reply
  35. Avatar for Katherine ReeckKatherine Reeck

    April 1, 2023 at 9:16 am

    5 stars
    I made the Cranberry Orange Sourdough bread & it is now our all time favorite!!! 5 stars don’t do it justice!

    Reply
    • Avatar for Traci YorkTraci York

      April 1, 2023 at 9:24 am

      Oh my gosh! First review, Katherine! Day made and, I’m so excited. Thank you for your note and giving the sourdough a go 🥰

      Reply
  36. Avatar for Emma BinghamEmma Bingham

    March 24, 2023 at 3:34 pm

    Traci, do you think these could be made into rolls using the baking instructions from your “Soft Sourdough Rolls” recipe? I would like to try this recipe for my co-workers, but due to COVID, shared food is a bit taboo at the moment ;-)

    Reply
    • Avatar for Traci YorkTraci York

      March 24, 2023 at 5:13 pm

      Hi Emma! I like this idea and think it would work just fine. Because of the sugar in this recipe, the crust gets dark, so watch the color as it bakes, and put a piece of foil over the top about 1/2 way through baking. Also, tuck all the little cranberries in so that they’re not on the top of the dough balls, where they tend to burn. Please keep us posted!

      Reply
  37. Avatar for JaneJane

    February 26, 2023 at 1:42 am

    5 stars
    Fabulous. Thank you so much for this recipe. I made mine gluten-free, a little based on your multigrain gf sourdough, and used the bigger pan that I bought for this recipe.It turned out fabulous and really moist: Baked for 45 mins.
    3 3/4 liquid inc oj. Rind of one orange & juice.
    3 cups flour gf ( I used Schär, a universal mix available in Germany
    1/2 cup plus 2 tbs tapioca flour
    1/4 cup + 1tbsp millet flour
    3 tbs ground chia
    1/3 cup & 2 tbs starter
    2 tbsp maple syrup
    2 tablespoons coconut sugar
    1 tsp cinnamon
    Pinch cloves & cardamom.

    Reply
    • Avatar for TraciTraci

      February 26, 2023 at 5:52 pm

      Hi Jane! Hooray! What a treat! Thank you for making AND sharing your recipe for GF bread! How much starter didi you use and did you add cranberries?

      Reply
      • Avatar for JaneJane

        March 1, 2023 at 10:10 am

        Hi Tracey,
        I used 1/3 cup plus 2 tbsp starter and the cranberries. I didn’t chop them though! It’s so good. Thank you again.

        Reply
        • Avatar for TraciTraci

          March 2, 2023 at 12:20 pm

          Thank you for sharing your notes Jane!

          Reply

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