Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal of the cake.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Make the Cake Batter

1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).
2. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
3. Stir in the orange zest, orange juice, and vanilla extract until combined.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until incorporated (be careful not to overmix).
5. Gently fold in the cranberries. The batter will be thick.

Step 4: Bake the Cake

1. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
2. Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. If the top starts to brown too quickly, loosely cover the cake with foil and continue baking.
3. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 5: Prepare the Orange Glaze

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, orange juice, and orange zest until smooth.
2. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake, allowing it to drip down the sides for a beautiful finish.