Introduction to Cranberry Walnut Bread
As a passionate home cook, I truly savor the moments spent in my kitchen, especially when I’m baking something delightful like cranberry walnut bread. This recipe is more than just a treat; it’s a warm hug wrapped in a loaf. With its moist texture and the perfect blend of tart cranberries and crunchy walnuts, it’s an ideal solution for those busy days. Whether you need a quick breakfast or a sweet snack, this cranberry walnut bread is sure to impress your family and friends. Let’s dive in and celebrate this wonderful baking adventure together!
Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Walnut Bread
This cranberry walnut bread isn’t just delicious; it’s a lifesaver for busy moms and professionals. Its simple ingredients and easy steps let you whip it up in no time. Plus, the combination of sweet cranberries and rich walnuts creates a flavor explosion that’ll have your taste buds dancing. Each slice is a delight, making it perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack. Trust me, you’ll want to bake this again and again!
Ingredients Cranberry Walnut Bread
Gathering the right ingredients is crucial for making the best cranberry walnut bread. Here’s what you’ll need:
- All-purpose flour: The backbone of this bread, giving it structure and texture. You can swap it for whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour if needed.
- Fresh cranberries: Their tartness adds a delightful zing. Frozen cranberries work too; just ensure they’re thawed and drained well.
- Chopped walnuts: These bring a lovely crunch and nutty flavor to the bread. Pecans are a tasty alternative if you prefer.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the bread and helps create that lovely golden crust. Brown sugar can be used for a deeper flavor.
- Baking powder: This leavening agent helps the bread rise, making it light and fluffy. Make sure it’s fresh for the best results.
- Salt: Even a pinch enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- Milk: Adds moisture; feel free to use almond or oat milk if you’re dairy-free.
- Large eggs: Room temperature eggs bind everything together and provide a rich flavor. You can replace them with flax eggs for a vegan version.
- Melted butter: This contributes to the bread’s moisture and flavor. Coconut oil is a great alternative if you want a dairy-free option.
You can find exact quantities for each ingredient at the bottom of the article, along with a handy print option to make your baking adventure easier!
How to Make Cranberry Walnut Bread
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s get baking! This process is straightforward, and I promise you’ll feel like a pro at the end. Follow these simple steps to create your delicious cranberry walnut bread, and let the enticing scents fill your kitchen.
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
First things first: preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial because a hot oven helps the bread rise beautifully.
While the oven warms up, grab your loaf pan. Grease it well or line it with parchment paper. This step ensures that your gorgeous loaf doesn’t stick. Trust me; dealing with stuck bread is the last thing you want!
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. This step is essential because combining these dry ingredients creates a uniform blend.
Take a moment to appreciate the aroma of flour and sugar. It instantly makes the kitchen feel like a cozy bakery. Make sure there are no lumps; a smooth mixture is the key to fluffy bread.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, mix together the milk, room-temperature eggs, and melted butter until they’re beautifully blended. Whisking well is crucial in this step.
You want everything to be well incorporated, as it creates a smooth batter. Picture the golden-yellow mixture glistening in your bowl—it’s a sign of good flavor ahead!
Step 4: Create the Batter
Now, pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently with a spatula or wooden spoon, ensuring you combine them just enough to get rid of the dry pockets.
Be careful; overmixing can lead to a dense bread. We want light and airy, much like a summer cloud on a lovely day!
Step 5: Add Cranberries and Walnuts
Once your batter is ready, it’s time for the star ingredients: cranberries and walnuts. Gently fold them in, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Visualize each tart cranberry and crunchy walnut being nestled in the dough—this is what makes your loaf a delightful flavor adventure!
Step 6: Bake the Bread
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Place the loaf pan in the oven and bake for 60-70 minutes. Your cranberry walnut bread will transform into a golden masterpiece.
To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, your bread is ready! Allow it to cool a bit in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack. The anticipation is half the fun!
Tips for Success
- Use fresh cranberries for a burst of flavor; they make all the difference.
- Ensure your eggs are at room temperature for better mixing.
- For extra nuttiness, lightly toast the walnuts before adding them to the batter.
- Don’t skip the toothpick test; it’s your best friend in determining doneness.
- Let the bread cool completely before slicing for cleaner pieces.
Equipment Needed
- Loaf pan: A standard 9×5 inch pan works well. You can also use a silicone mold for easy removal.
- Mixing bowls: Two bowls are essential—a large one for dry and a medium one for wet ingredients.
- Whisk: A sturdy whisk is perfect for blending wet ingredients. A fork can work in a pinch.
- Spatula or wooden spoon: Use this to combine your batter and fold in the cranberries and walnuts.
Variations
- Nut-Free: Omit the walnuts entirely for a nut-free version. You can substitute with pumpkin seeds for a similar crunch.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Make sure it contains xanthan gum for proper texture.
- Vegan: Replace eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based milk. Substitute melted butter with coconut oil or vegan butter.
- Spice it Up: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warming spice note that perfectly complements the cranberries.
- Dried Fruits: Mix in some dried cherries or raisins for added sweetness and chewiness in each slice.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm slices of cranberry walnut bread with a pat of butter for a comforting treat.
- Pair it with a steaming cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon snack.
- Top with cream cheese or mascarpone for an indulgent breakfast option.
- Add a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an elegant presentation at gatherings.
- Best enjoyed fresh, but it pairs well with a side of fresh fruit or yogurt.
FAQs about Cranberry Walnut Bread
As you embark on your cranberry walnut bread adventure, you might have a few questions pop up. Don’t worry; I’ve got you covered with some helpful answers!
Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Dried cranberries can work in a pinch, but keep in mind they won’t give you the same tartness. If you use them, consider reducing the sugar in the recipe.
How do I know when the bread is done baking?
Great question! You can insert a toothpick into the center of the bread; if it comes out clean, your cranberry walnut bread is ready to be enjoyed!
Can I freeze cranberry walnut bread?
Yes! This bread freezes beautifully. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container. Thaw it at room temperature for a tasty treat later.
What’s the best way to store leftover bread?
Keep your cranberry walnut bread in an airtight container at room temperature. This will help it stay fresh for several days. If you want to keep it longer, I recommend freezing it!
Can I add other nuts or fruits?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in different nuts like pecans or even add some diced apple or orange zest for a unique twist. Baking is all about creativity!
Final Thoughts
Baking cranberry walnut bread is more than just a culinary task; it’s a joyful experience that fills your home with warmth and delicious aromas. Each slice packed with tangy cranberries and crunchy walnuts brings a slice of happiness to your day. I love pulling a fresh loaf from the oven, knowing the smiles it’ll bring to my family’s faces. Whether it’s for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a festive gathering, this recipe is sure to become a cherished favorite. Share it with loved ones, and watch as it creates sweet memories in your kitchen!
Print
Cranberry Walnut Bread
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60-70 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf 1x
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A deliciously moist bread filled with tart cranberries and crunchy walnuts, perfect for breakfast or as a snack.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup fresh cranberries (halved)
- 1 cup chopped walnuts
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1/4 cup melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until combined.
- In another bowl, mix milk, eggs, and melted butter until well blended. Pour into the dry ingredients and stir gently.
- Fold in cranberries and walnuts until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 60-70 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Allow cooling before slicing.
Notes
- Make sure the eggs are at room temperature for better mixing.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
- Can be served warm or at room temperature.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
