Name: Cranberry Walnut Bread
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-489817H43M5S
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 3/4 cup orange juice; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon orange zest; 1 1/2 cups fresh cranberries, halved; 3/4 cup chopped walnuts, toasted; 1 tablespoon coarse sugar (optional)

If you’re seeking the perfect recipe to brighten up your breakfast table, look no further than this delicious Cranberry Walnut Bread. This dish combines the tartness of fresh cranberries with the rich nuttiness of toasted walnuts, creating a delightful balance that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Not only is it a comforting loaf to enjoy during the colder months, but it also adds a colorful flair to your holiday spread. Whether you’re preparing for a family gathering or simply treating yourself, this bread delivers mouthwatering flavor in every slice.

What makes this Cranberry Walnut Bread stand out is its versatility. It can be enjoyed fresh from the oven, toasted for breakfast, or served as a delightful snack throughout the day. The use of orange juice and zest infuses the bread with a citrusy brightness, which complements the cranberries beautifully. Each bite offers a perfect texture—a moist interior thanks to the melted butter and a slightly crunchy finish from the walnuts. Plus, with the option to sprinkle coarse sugar on top, you can add a touch of sweetness and crunch if desired.

As you prepare to make this delightful loaf, you’ll find the recipe is straightforward with minimal fuss. It’s an excellent choice for novice bakers and seasoned cooks alike. Packed with flavor and nutrients, this bread is as healthy as it is delicious, making it an ideal option for those on a vegetarian diet. Easy to slice and share, you won’t be able to resist the urge to whip up batch after batch. So, grab your ingredients and let’s dive into the world of homemade baking with this Cranberry Walnut Bread!

Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Walnut Bread

Delicious Flavor: The combination of tart cranberries and crunchy walnuts offers a delightful taste experience.
Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in about 75 minutes, making it perfect for any occasion.
Healthy Snack Option: Full of wholesome ingredients, it’s a guilt-free treat that satisfies your cravings.
Versatile: Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or as a festive gift for friends and family.
Make-Ahead: This bread can be made in advance and easily stored, perfect for busy days.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you start baking your Cranberry Walnut Bread, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather the proper tools. First, ensure that your workspace is clean and organized. Prepping your ingredients ahead of time will streamline the process and make measuring a breeze. Make sure to have all your ingredients at room temperature—especially the butter and egg—as this will create a better emulsion in the batter.

For this recipe, you will need a large mixing bowl for combining dry ingredients and a separate bowl for your wet ingredients. A whisk is crucial for mixing and aerating the batter, while a spatula is perfect for folding in the cranberries and walnuts without overmixing. Don’t forget to have your 9×5-inch loaf pan ready; greasing and lining it with parchment paper will ensure your bread releases easily after baking. Once everything is in place, you’ll be ready to bake up something special!

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup orange juice
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon orange zest
1 1/2 cups fresh cranberries, halved
3/4 cup chopped walnuts, toasted
1 tablespoon coarse sugar (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin your baking journey by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial, as it ensures even baking. While the oven warms up, grease your 9×5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper. This step prevents the bread from sticking and aids in easy removal once it’s baked.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Make sure to mix thoroughly, as this will evenly distribute the leavening agents, ensuring your bread rises perfectly.

Step 3: Prepare Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the orange juice, melted butter, egg, vanilla extract, and fresh orange zest. This mixture is where the magic happens, as the butter adds richness, while the orange juice and zest help promote a vibrant flavor in the bread.

Step 4: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Once your wet ingredients are well integrated, pour them into your bowl of dry ingredients. Gently stir the mixture until just combined—do not overmix as this will result in a dense bread. The batter should be slightly lumpy but well combined.

Step 5: Fold in Cranberries and Walnuts

Using a spatula, carefully fold in the halved fresh cranberries and toasted walnuts. Ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter, but keep your folds gentle to maintain the lightness of the mixture.

Step 6: Bake the Bread

Pour the combined batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. If desired, sprinkle coarse sugar on top for an extra sweet crunch. Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake for 55 to 65 minutes. If you notice the top is browning too quickly, tent the bread with foil to prevent burning.

Step 7: Cool and Slice

Once baked, allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 to 15 minutes. After that, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This transfer is vital for achieving the perfect texture.

Variations

Protein: Add chopped, cooked bacon or turkey for a savory twist.
Vegetables: Incorporate grated carrots or zucchini for added nutrition and moisture.
Spices: Try adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm flavor profile.

Cooking Notes

Make sure the cranberries are fresh and not overly ripe—they should hold their shape during baking.
If using frozen cranberries, do not thaw them before adding; the cold fruit will help retain moisture in the bread.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy this bread warm with a pat of butter for the ultimate comfort food experience.
Serve alongside a dollop of cream cheese or mascarpone for a decadent treat during brunch.

Tips

Store the bread wrapped in plastic for up to a week at room temperature or freeze for longer storage.
Toasting slices before serving can enhance the nutty flavors and create a delightful crunch.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 55–65 minutes
Total Time: 75 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 180 per slice
Protein: 3 grams
Sodium: 150 milligrams

FAQs

Can I use frozen cranberries in this recipe?

Yes! You can use frozen cranberries. Just be sure not to thaw them as they can make the bread too moist.

How should I store leftover bread?

Wrap your bread in plastic wrap to keep it fresh for up to a week. You can also freeze slices for longer-lasting enjoyment!

Can I make this bread gluten-free?

Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring that the blend has a xanthan gum component for proper texture.

How can I enhance the flavors further?

Consider adding spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for extra warmth, or use different nuts like pecans for variety!

Conclusion

In conclusion, this Cranberry Walnut Bread is not just a recipe; it’s an experience that brings comfort, flavor, and joy with every bite. Its blend of tart cranberries and crunchy walnuts wrapped in a moist, buttery loaf is bound to make it a favorite among friends and family. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, as a snack, or during festive gatherings, this bread is versatile enough to shine in any setting. We encourage you to try this recipe and share your delightful variations in the comments below. Happy baking!