If you’re looking for a cozy, flavorful loaf that feels both special and homey, this Cranberry Walnut Bread Recipe is an absolute must-try. Bursting with tart cranberries and crunchy toasted walnuts, each slice offers a delightful balance of textures and tastes. It’s moist yet hearty, with just the right hint of sweetness and a subtle citrus zing from optional orange zest that elevates it to the next level. Whether you’re enjoying it fresh from the oven or as a lovely accompaniment to your morning coffee, this bread is a real crowd-pleaser that’s easy enough to make any day of the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is all it takes to whip up this delicious bread. Each element plays its part, from the tender crumb created by flour and butter to the burst of brightness and crunch provided by cranberries and walnuts.
- 3 cups all-purpose flour: Gives the bread its sturdy yet soft texture, perfect for holding all the mix-ins.
- 1 cup sugar: Adds just enough sweetness to complement the tart cranberries without overpowering.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder: Helps the bread rise beautifully and stay light.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.
- 1/4 cup butter (melted): Brings moistness and richness, making every bite tender.
- 2 large eggs: Bind everything together and add a lovely golden color.
- 1 cup milk: Keeps the batter moist and smooth, ensuring the bread isn’t dry.
- 1 cup fresh cranberries (chopped): The star ingredient, offering tart bursts that brighten each slice.
- 1 cup walnuts (chopped): Adds crunch and a toasty flavor that complements the fruit perfectly.
- Zest of one orange (optional): A small touch that lifts the bread’s aroma with fresh citrus notes.
How to Make Cranberry Walnut Bread Recipe
Step 1: Preparing Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your bread will bake evenly from the moment it goes in. Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan well so the bread releases easily once baked. A lightly greased pan is your best friend here for a clean loaf shape and easy removal.
Step 2: Combining Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients thoroughly upfront evenly distributes the leavening agents and sweetness, which is crucial for your loaf’s texture and rise.
Step 3: Mixing Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, eggs, and milk. These wet ingredients bring richness and moisture, which blend beautifully with your dry mix to create the perfect batter consistency.
Step 4: Bringing Wet and Dry Together
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients and gently stir until just combined. It’s important not to overmix here—overworking the batter can make the bread tough. A few lumps are perfectly fine and help maintain a tender crumb.
Step 5: Folding in the Cranberries, Walnuts, and Orange Zest
Now for the fun part: carefully fold in the chopped cranberries, walnuts, and the optional orange zest. This step evenly distributes the flavors and textures without breaking down the berries or nuts, preserving their delightful bite and zing.
Step 6: Baking the Bread
Pour the batter into your greased loaf pan, smoothing the top gently. Place it in the oven for 60 to 70 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. This baking time ensures the bread cooks through but stays moist.
Step 7: Cooling the Loaf
Once baked, let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This resting period helps it set, so it slices cleanly without crumbling. Then transfer the bread to a wire rack to cool completely, which also prevents sogginess from trapped steam.
How to Serve Cranberry Walnut Bread Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra inviting touch, try sprinkling chopped walnuts or dusting powdered sugar on top before serving. A light spread of cream cheese or honey butter can also add a luscious creaminess that pairs wonderfully with the fruit and nut flavors.
Side Dishes
This bread shines with simple sides like fresh fruit salad or a dollop of Greek yogurt, making a wholesome breakfast or snack. It also pairs beautifully with a cup of your favorite tea or coffee for a comforting treat any time of day.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice the Cranberry Walnut Bread Recipe and serve it alongside a platter of cheeses and charcuterie for a festive brunch spread. You can also toast individual slices and use them as a base for savory toppings like goat cheese and fig jam for a fun twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This keeps it fresh, moist, and ready to enjoy without drying out.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, slice the bread and freeze individual pieces in airtight freezer bags. Thaw them at room temperature or toast directly from the freezer for a quick and delicious snack anytime.
Reheating
To revive the soft texture and warm the bread, wrap slices in foil and warm in a 300°F oven for 10–15 minutes. Alternatively, a few seconds in the microwave (10-15 seconds) works well for single servings.
FAQs
Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?
Yes, dried cranberries can be used if fresh aren’t available, though they are sweeter and less tart, which might slightly change the flavor profile. Consider reducing the sugar a bit if you use dried cranberries to keep the sweetness balanced.
Is it possible to substitute the walnuts?
Absolutely! Pecans or almonds make fantastic substitutes and bring their own unique crunch and flavor to the bread. Feel free to experiment based on your preference or what you have on hand.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
You can try using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, but keep an eye on the texture as gluten-free flours sometimes produce a denser crumb. Adding a little xanthan gum may help improve structure.
What is the best way to ensure the bread bakes evenly?
Make sure your oven is properly preheated and avoid opening the oven door too often during baking. Also, use the toothpick test near the center of the loaf to check doneness rather than relying solely on time.
Can I add spices to the recipe?
Yes, adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg can add warmth and enhance the autumnal feel of this Cranberry Walnut Bread Recipe. Just fold them in with the dry ingredients for an extra layer of flavor.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this Cranberry Walnut Bread Recipe a try because it’s one of those joyful bakes that will fill your kitchen with a wonderful aroma and your taste buds with happiness. It’s simple, comforting, and just different enough to make it a family favorite or a thoughtful homemade gift. Trust me, once you try it, this bread will become a regular on your baking list.
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Cranberry Walnut Bread Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Cranberry Walnut Bread is a moist, flavorful quick bread combining tart fresh cranberries and crunchy walnuts with a hint of orange zest. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy snack, this easy-to-make loaf is packed with delightful textures and a perfect balance of sweet and tangy notes.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/4 cup butter (melted)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
Add-ins
- 1 cup fresh cranberries (chopped)
- 1 cup walnuts (chopped)
- Zest of one orange (optional, but highly recommended!)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan to prevent sticking.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until evenly blended.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the melted butter, eggs, and milk together until smooth and well combined.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Pour the wet ingredient mixture into the dry ingredients bowl and stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to keep the bread tender.
- Add Cranberries, Walnuts, and Zest: Gently fold in the chopped fresh cranberries, walnuts, and orange zest to evenly distribute them through the batter.
- Pour Batter into Pan: Transfer the batter to the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top evenly.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then carefully remove it and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Do not overmix the batter to avoid a dense bread; mix until ingredients are just combined.
- Chopped walnuts can be toasted lightly before adding for enhanced flavor.
- Fresh cranberries can be replaced with frozen ones if fresh are unavailable; do not thaw before adding.
- Adding orange zest is optional but adds a lovely citrus aroma and flavor.
- Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
