Hey there, fellow dessert lovers! There’s nothing quite like the smell of fresh bread baking, is there? For me, baking isn’t just about mixing ingredients; it’s about creating warmth, comfort, and those unforgettable moments shared around a kitchen table. Today, I’m so excited to share one of my absolute favorite creations with you: a delightful cranberry nut bread recipe. If you’re looking for another amazing version, check out this external cranberry nut bread recipe.
This isn’t just any loaf of bread. It’s a perfect blend of sweet, tart, and nutty flavors, packed with juicy dried cranberries and crunchy walnuts. Every slice feels like a hug, making it ideal for a cozy breakfast, a comforting snack, or even a lovely addition to your holiday spread. This homemade bread truly brings people together.
I’ve poured my heart into perfecting this cranberry nut bread recipe, ensuring it’s easy enough for any home baker to master, yet impressive enough to wow your family and friends. Get ready to fill your home with the most incredible aroma and enjoy a baking experience that’s as rewarding as the delicious result. Let’s get started on this journey to bake some truly amazing artisan bread!
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
What You’ll Need: Ingredients for Amazing Cranberry Nut Bread Recipe
Alright, chefs! Before we dive into the fun part, let’s gather all our treasures. Having everything measured and ready to go makes the baking process super smooth and enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to create this fantastic cranberry nut bread recipe:
- 3 cups + 2 Tablespoons (390g) bread flour or all-purpose flour (remember to spoon & level!), plus a little extra for dusting.
- 2 teaspoons coarse sea salt. Trust me, the flavor is just so much better than regular table salt for this rustic bread.
- ½ tsp Platinum Yeast (instant), Red Star brand recommended. This tiny powerhouse helps our bread rise beautifully.
- 3/4 cup (95g) chopped walnuts or pecans. Whichever nut you prefer will add wonderful crunch to your cranberry bread.
- 3/4 cup (105g) dried cranberries*. These jewels bring the perfect tart sweetness to your delicious cranberry nut bread recipe.
- 1 Tablespoon (21g) honey. For a touch of natural sweetness and a lovely golden crust.
- 1 and 1/2 cups (360ml) warm water (aim for about 95°F (35°C)). This is crucial for waking up our yeast!
Baking Bliss: Step-by-Step Cranberry Nut Bread Recipe
Now for the truly exciting part: bringing our ingredients together to create a magnificent loaf! Don’t worry, this cranberry nut bread recipe is incredibly forgiving and fun to make. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a beautiful, golden-crusted bread ready to enjoy. Let’s get baking!
Step 1: Mixing Your Dry Ingredients
First, grab a large bowl. In it, whisk together your 3 cups + 2 Tablespoons (390g) of flour, 2 teaspoons of coarse sea salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of instant yeast. Make sure these dry ingredients are well combined. This ensures the yeast and salt are evenly distributed throughout your future delicious bread.
Step 2: Adding Wet Ingredients and Forming the Dough
Next, pour in the 1 and 1/2 cups (360ml) of warm water and the 1 Tablespoon of honey. Use a wooden spoon or a strong spatula to mix everything together. You’re not looking for a perfectly smooth dough here; just mix until all the flour is wet and you have a shaggy, sticky dough. This no-knead method is a dream for homemade bread, much like my popular Peasant-Style No-Knead Bread recipe.
Step 3: First Rise (Bulk Fermentation)
Seal the bowl securely with plastic wrap or a fresh kitchen towel. Now, let this beautiful dough rest in a warm spot in your kitchen for at least 8 hours, or even better, overnight (up to 18 hours). This long, slow rise, known as bulk fermentation, is key to developing that amazing flavor and airy texture for your cranberry nut bread recipe.
Step 4: Adding the Cranberries and Nuts to Your Dough
Once your dough has risen and looks bubbly, gently turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Sprinkle your 3/4 cup (95g) of chopped walnuts or pecans and 3/4 cup (105g) of dried cranberries evenly over the dough. Gently fold the dough over itself a few times to incorporate the fruits and nuts without overworking the dough. This adds the delightful texture to our artisan bread.
Step 5: Shaping Your Loaf
Lightly flour your hands. Carefully form the dough into a smooth, round shape. Don’t press too hard; you want to keep as much of that lovely air as possible. The goal is to create a taut “skin” on the outside of the dough, which helps it hold its shape during baking. This is a crucial step for a well-formed loaf.
Step 6: Second Rise (Proofing)
Lightly flour a clean kitchen towel or a proofing basket (banneton). Place your shaped dough seam-side up onto the floured towel or into the basket. Cover it loosely with another clean towel or plastic wrap. Let it rest for another 30-60 minutes while your oven preheats. This second rise, or proofing, prepares your bread for its final bake.
Step 7: Preheating Your Dutch Oven
About 30 minutes before your dough is ready for baking, place your Dutch oven (with its lid) into your oven. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) with the Dutch oven inside. Letting the Dutch oven get screaming hot is essential for achieving that perfect crust on your cranberry nut bread recipe.
Step 8: Baking Your Cranberry Nut Bread Recipe
Carefully remove the hot Dutch oven from the oven. Gently transfer your dough from the towel or proofing basket directly into the hot Dutch oven. Be quick and careful! Score the top of your loaf with a sharp knife or razor blade if you wish – this helps it expand beautifully. Put the lid back on and bake for 30 minutes.
Step 9: Achieving a Golden Crust
After baking for 30 minutes, uncover the Dutch oven to continue baking. You’ll see your bread has puffed up nicely! Continue to bake uncovered for another 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is a deep golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped. This stage creates the beautiful, crunchy exterior of your homemade bread.
Step 10: Cooling for Perfection
After baking, gently lift the bread out of the Dutch oven and place it on a wire rack to cool. It’s so tempting, but please, let your cranberry nut bread recipe cool completely for at least 1-2 hours before slicing into it. This allows the internal structure to set, preventing a gummy texture and ensuring the best flavor. Enjoy your delicious result!
Chef’s Secrets for the Perfect Cranberry Nut Bread Recipe
Baking, like any art, has its little secrets that can turn a good loaf into an amazing one. After years in the kitchen, I’ve picked up a few tricks for this cranberry nut bread recipe that I’m thrilled to share with you. These simple tips will help you get that perfect rise and delicious texture every single time.
Yeast is Your Friend: Tips for a Good Rise
Don’t forget to verify that your instant yeast hasn’t expired! Fresh yeast is happy yeast, and happy yeast means a great rise for your homemade bread. If you’re unsure, you can “proof” a tiny bit in warm water with a pinch of sugar; if it bubbles, it’s good to go. Don’t skip the long initial rise for this no-knead bread; it develops amazing flavor.
The Magic of Warm Water
The water temperature is super important for activating your yeast in this cranberry nut bread recipe. Too hot, and it kills the yeast. Too cold, and the yeast won’t wake up. Aim for about 95°F (35°C)—just slightly warmer than lukewarm. This gives your dough the perfect environment to start its beautiful journey.
Don’t Rush the Proofing
Patience is a baker’s best friend, especially with a rustic bread like this. The first rise (bulk fermentation) can take a long time, sometimes up to 18 hours, depending on your kitchen’s temperature. Don’t worry if it’s slow; slow proofing builds incredible flavor. For the second rise, watch the dough, not the clock. It should look noticeably puffy.
Customizing Your Cranberry Nut Bread Recipe
Feel free to play around! While walnuts are classic, pecans or even slivered almonds work beautifully in this cranberry bread. If you’re not a fan of honey, maple syrup can be a great substitute, adding a different subtle sweetness. It’s a versatile recipe that invites your personal twist!
Delicious Variations of Your Cranberry Nut Bread Recipe
Baking gives you the freedom to make each recipe uniquely yours. This cranberry nut bread recipe is a fantastic starting point, but don’t be afraid to experiment. Here are some fun ways to put your personal spin on this delightful artisan bread:
Citrus Zest Infusion
For a brighter, zippier flavor, add 1-2 teaspoons of orange or lemon zest to your dry ingredients in this cranberry nut bread recipe. The citrus oils will infuse the bread with a lovely aroma and complement the tart cranberries beautifully. If you enjoy a fruity zing in your loaves, you might also love my Lemon Blueberry Sourdough Bread. It’s a simple addition that makes a big difference in this homemade bread.
Spice It Up
Want to add some warmth? Stir in 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon or a half teaspoon of nutmeg with your dry ingredients. You could even try a pinch of ground cloves or allspice for a more complex, cozy flavor profile. These spices pair wonderfully with both the cranberries and the nuts, enhancing your cranberry bread.
Different Nut Combinations
While walnuts are classic in this cranberry nut bread recipe, feel free to mix it up! Try using toasted pecans for a buttery crunch, or a blend of almonds and hazelnuts for a gourmet touch. Lightly toasting your nuts before adding them can also bring out their flavor even more.
Sweet & Savory Swaps
Get adventurous! For a sweeter loaf, add 1/4 cup of white chocolate chips along with the cranberries and nuts. If you’re leaning more savory, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh rosemary or thyme for an unexpected herbal note that pairs surprisingly well with cranberries. This versatile recipe can truly be adapted, much like how a simple ingredient like olive oil can transform a classic like my Banana Bread with Olive Oil.
My Baking Journey: A Story About This Cranberry Nut Bread Recipe
Baking has always been my happy place. From the moment I could peek over the kitchen counter, I was fascinated by how simple flour and water could become something so magical. This particular cranberry nut bread recipe holds a really special place in my heart, and it’s tied to one of my favorite holiday memories.
A few years ago, my family gathered for our annual Friendsgiving feast. It’s always a potluck, and I wanted to bring something truly special, something that felt warm and welcoming. I decided to try my hand at a no-knead bread, but I wanted to make it festive. That’s when the idea for a cranberry nut combination sparked.
I remember mixing the dough the night before, the house quiet except for the gentle hum of the refrigerator. The next morning, when I pulled that golden-brown loaf out of the Dutch oven, the aroma of cranberries and toasted walnuts filled the air. It was pure bliss! Everyone raved about it, slicing off piece after piece, slathering it with butter. Seeing their smiles, feeling that warmth of shared food, it solidified for me why I love baking so much.
This cranberry nut bread recipe isn’t just about the ingredients; it’s about the connection it fosters. It’s about bringing people together, one delicious slice at a time. Every time I bake it now, I’m reminded of that joyful day and the power of homemade treats to create lasting memories. I truly hope it brings as much joy to your home as it has to mine.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cranberry Nut Bread
I get a lot of great questions about this wonderful cranberry nut bread recipe, and I love to answer them! Knowing more about your bake helps you enjoy it even more. Here are some popular questions that come up all the time:
How do you eat cranberry walnut bread?
Oh, the possibilities are endless! This cranberry nut bread recipe is incredibly versatile. It’s fantastic for breakfast, toasted and slathered with a little butter, cream cheese, or your favorite jam. It also makes a wonderful afternoon snack with a cup of tea or coffee. Don’t forget it’s delicious alongside a cheese board for a sweet and savory bite. You can even enjoy it plain – it’s that good!
How healthy is walnut bread?
While this is a delicious treat, it also offers some great benefits! Walnuts are packed with healthy fats, like omega-3s, which are good for your heart. Dried cranberries bring a burst of antioxidants and fiber. When enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet, this homemade bread is a much better choice than many highly processed baked goods. It provides good energy and tasty nutrients.
What nuts go best with cranberries?
For this cranberry nut bread recipe, I absolutely love walnuts – their earthy flavor and crunch are a perfect match for the tart cranberries. Pecans are another fantastic choice, offering a slightly sweeter, buttery taste. If you’re feeling adventurous, almonds or even pistachios can also pair wonderfully, adding different textures and subtle flavors to your cranberry bread. It really depends on your preference!
Does Costco make cranberry walnut bread?
Yes, you might find cranberry walnut bread at stores like Costco or your local bakery. While those can be convenient, there’s truly nothing quite like the experience and taste of baking this cranberry nut bread recipe yourself. The aroma that fills your kitchen, the warmth of a fresh-from-the-oven loaf, and the knowledge that you made it with your own hands just can’t be beaten. You control the ingredients, and the freshness is simply superior!
Wrapping It Up: Your New Favorite Cranberry Nut Bread Recipe
There you have it! Your very own delicious cranberry nut bread recipe. I truly hope you enjoyed baking this wonderful loaf as much as I love sharing it with you. There’s such a unique satisfaction in pulling a warm, fragrant loaf of homemade bread from the oven.
This isn’t just about a recipe; it’s about creating memories and sharing warmth with those you love. I encourage you to try making this artisan bread in your own kitchen. Don’t forget to share your baking adventures and beautiful creations with me! I can’t wait to see your results. Until our next delicious journey, happy baking!
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Cranberry Nut Bread Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf 1x
Description
A warm, yummy cranberry nut bread filled with tart cranberries and crunchy walnuts. Perfect for cozy breakfasts, snacks, or holiday baking.
Ingredients
- 3 cups + 2 tablespoons (390g) bread flour or all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons coarse sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon instant yeast (Platinum Yeast from Red Star)
- 3/4 cup (95g) chopped walnuts or pecans
- 3/4 cup (105g) dried cranberries
- 1 tablespoon (21g) honey
- 1 and 1/2 cups (360ml) warm water (about 95°F/35°C)
- Extra flour for dusting
Instructions
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and yeast.
2. Add warm water and honey. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Cover and let rise in a warm spot for 8 to 18 hours (bulk fermentation).
4. Turn dough onto floured surface, add cranberries and nuts, and gently fold to incorporate.
5. Shape dough into a round loaf, being careful to preserve air pockets.
6. Place dough seam-side up in a floured towel or banneton and cover for 30–60 minutes.
7. Preheat Dutch oven with lid in the oven at 450°F (230°C) for 30 minutes.
8. Transfer dough into hot Dutch oven, score top, cover, and bake for 30 minutes.
9. Remove lid and bake uncovered for another 15–20 minutes until crust is golden brown.
10. Transfer to a wire rack and cool for at least 1–2 hours before slicing.
Notes
Use walnuts or pecans based on preference. Add orange zest or spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for variation. Optional additions include white chocolate chips or herbs like rosemary. Use maple syrup instead of honey for a different flavor. Make sure water temperature is around 95°F to activate yeast.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: cranberry nut bread recipe, homemade cranberry bread, no-knead bread, dried cranberry bread, artisan bread, walnut bread, holiday bread