As we approach the season of gratitude, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the traditions that bring our families and communities together. One delightful way to celebrate is through baking, and what better way to incorporate literature into our culinary lessons than with the classic children’s book Cranberry Thanksgiving by Wende and Harry Devlin? This charming story not only captivates young readers but also serves as an excellent foundation for a baking unit focused on the delicious Cranberry Orange Bread featured in the tale.
About Cranberry Thanksgiving
Cranberry Thanksgiving tells the story of Maggie and her grandmother, who have a treasured recipe for a delicious cranberry bread that they make for their Thanksgiving celebration. The story takes an interesting twist when one of their guests attempts to steal the secret recipe! This charming narrative provides a rich backdrop for discussing themes of sharing, family traditions, and the importance of recipes in our culture.
Integrating Cranberry Thanksgiving into your baking curriculum allows educators to engage students in multiple ways. The book not only teaches valuable baking skills but also encourages students to think critically about family traditions and the significance of sharing.
Literature Connection: Reading the book can spark interest and provide context for the baking activity to be carried out as a class.
Culinary Skills: Students will learn important baking techniques and measurements while making a beloved recipe. Discuss baking food safety.
Cultural Appreciation: Understanding the significance of cranberries in holiday traditions adds an educational layer to the baking process.
Family traditional recipes are an integral part of our cultural heritage and a valuable way to connect with our ancestors. These recipes not only provide us with delicious meals but also serve as a link to our family’s history, preserving the tastes and flavors of those who came before us for generations to come. Read this blog post titled, Why Baking History and Traditions Are Important
Cranberry Orange Bread Recipe
Here’s a simple and delicious recipe for Cranberry Orange Bread that your students can make in class. This bread is moist, flavorful, and a wonderful way to celebrate the holiday season!
Ingredients:
2 cups fresh or frozen
cranberries
(no need to thaw)
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed is best)
2 teaspoons grated orange zest
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional: 1 cup walnuts
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, combine the cranberries and sugar. Stir and set aside for about 10 minutes to let the cranberries release some juices.
In another bowl, mix the orange juice, orange zest, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
In a separate large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Gently fold in the cranberry mixture.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly.
Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Slice and enjoy your delicious Cranberry Orange Bread!
Classroom Discussion Topics
Cranberry History: Explore the history of cranberries in American culture and their significance in Thanksgiving traditions.
The Role of Family Recipes: Discuss why family recipes are important and how they are often passed down through generations.
Character Analysis: Analyze the motivations of the characters in Cranberry Thanksgiving—why would someone want to steal a recipe? What does this say about value and trust?
Baking Science: Talk about the role of each ingredient in the bread-making process and how they contribute to the texture and flavor of the final product. Most of all, enjoy taste-testing the bread!
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