Craisin Orange Bread

Prep: 15 mins + rising time | Cook Time: 35 mins | Course: Baked Goods | Serves: 12 

Orange and craisin bread is a light and flavorful bread loaf that makes the very best toast, also french toast. We love this toasted with lots of butter and a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar. Inspired by KimLiveLife https://www.kimlivlife.com/2010/10/orange-cranberry-bread.html 

1 tsp orange zest

1 ¼ cups orange juice, room temperature

1 ½ Tbsp sugar

¾ cup craisins

2 tsp yeast

1 Tbsp butter, room temperature

3 ¼ cups flour

1 tsp salt

In a stand mixer layer zest and orange juice with sugar, craisins and yeast. Stir and let set for 5 minutes, mixture will get foamy. Add butter, flour and salt. Mix for 2-3 minutes. Cover bowl with plastic wrap and allow to rise for about 1 hour. 

Preheat oven to 350*. Scrape dough onto a lightly floured surface and roll into a loaf shape. Place in a bread pan and let rise for 30 minutes longer. Bake for 35-40 minutes. Loaf will be golden brown. Test for doneness  with a insta-thermometer; minimum temperature should read 190*. Brush the loaf top with  a bit of melted butter. Let cool for 15 minutes before turning out of the pan.