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If you’re looking for a cozy, flavorful treat that combines tart cranberries with crunchy walnuts in a moist, tender loaf, this Cranberry Walnut Bread Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s simple to make yet packed with textures and bursts of flavor that feel like a warm hug in every bite. Whether you’re serving it as a breakfast delight, an afternoon snack, or a festive holiday treat, this bread brings a wonderful balance of sweetness, nuttiness, and that little zing from the cranberries that keeps you coming back for more.

Cranberry Walnut Bread Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The charm of this Cranberry Walnut Bread Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients. Each element plays a crucial role, from the flour providing structure to the nuts and cranberries delivering that delightful contrast of texture and taste. You won’t need any fancy or hard-to-find items, just simple pantry staples that come together beautifully.

2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend): The base of the bread, giving it body and softness.
1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the bread rise and become light and fluffy.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavors.
Optional spices (1 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg, 1/4 teaspoon ginger): Adds warm, cozy notes that elevate the taste.
2 large eggs: Binds everything together and adds richness.
1/2 cup melted butter or neutral oil: Gives moisture and a tender crumb.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses a lovely aromatic sweetness.
3/4 cup sugar (or natural sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar): Provides just the right amount of sweetness.
1 cup fresh or dried cranberries: Offers tangy bursts of flavor and vibrant color.
3/4 cup chopped toasted walnuts (or pecans, almonds, or pistachios): Adds crunch and a nutty depth to every slice.

How to Make Cranberry Walnut Bread Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing your loaf pan. It’s helpful to chop the walnuts ahead time and measure out all the ingredients so you can breeze through the mixing process without missing a beat. This preparation sets you up for success and ensures smooth workflow.

Step 2: Whisk Wet Ingredients to Perfection

In a large mixing bowl, combine the eggs, melted butter or oil, vanilla extract, and sugar. Whisk these together until the mixture is smooth and slightly frothy. This step helps incorporate air, making your bread lighter and giving it a better texture that feels just right.

Step 3: Sift and Combine Dry Ingredients

Next, sift the flour along with baking soda, salt, and any optional warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger into a separate bowl. Sifting prevents lumps and ensures an even distribution of ingredients, which is key for an evenly baked loaf without any surprises.

Step 4: Gently Fold in the Cranberries and Walnuts

Gradually add your dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Use a spatula to fold gently—this keeps the batter light and airy. Then carefully fold in the cranberries and chopped toasted walnuts, being mindful not to crush the berries so they stay plump and evenly scattered throughout the bread.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Delicious

Pour your beautifully mixed batter into the prepared loaf pan and pop it in the oven. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, checking for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center—it should come out clean. Allow the bread to cool fully before slicing to retain its perfect texture and to avoid crumbling.

How to Serve Cranberry Walnut Bread Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate your serving presentation, consider topping slices with a smear of creamy butter or a drizzle of honey. You can also sprinkle extra chopped walnuts or a few fresh cranberries on top for a pretty, inviting look that also adds a hint of freshness.

Side Dishes

This bread pairs wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments. Think alongside a steaming cup of tea or coffee for breakfast or a cozy afternoon snack. For a light meal, it goes well with a simple cream cheese spread or even alongside a bowl of soup to add a satisfying crunch.

Creative Ways to Present

Get creative by turning your Cranberry Walnut Bread into French toast or bread pudding for a special brunch. You can also cut the loaf into cubes and toast them lightly to toss into salads for extra texture and flavor, transforming this bread into a versatile ingredient beyond just slicing and eating.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once baked and cooled, store your bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or kept in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay fresh for about 2 to 3 days, perfect for enjoying without worrying about it drying out quickly.

Freezing

This Cranberry Walnut Bread Recipe freezes exceptionally well. Slice the loaf first if you like, then wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag. You can keep it frozen for up to 3 months, making it easy to enjoy this delicious bread anytime you wish.

Reheating

To bring your bread back to life, pop slices in the toaster or warm them briefly in the oven at low heat. This will refresh the bread’s texture and enhance the flavors, especially the aromatic spices and nutty crunch, like it was freshly baked.

FAQs

Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Dried cranberries work beautifully in this recipe and provide a concentrated burst of sweetness and tang. Just be sure to fold them in gently so they stay evenly distributed throughout the bread.

Is it possible to make this bread gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the blend you use includes xanthan gum or a similar binder to give the bread the right texture and structure.

Can I substitute walnuts with other nuts?

Definitely! Pecans, almonds, or pistachios make excellent alternatives if you want to mix up the nutty flavor or accommodate preferences and allergies. Just toast and chop them similarly to ensure maximum crunch and flavor.

How do the optional spices impact the bread?

The optional cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger add warm, comforting notes that enhance the taste without overpowering the main ingredients. They’re perfect for a seasonal twist, especially during autumn and winter months.

What’s the best way to slice the bread?

Use a serrated knife and slice gently once the bread is completely cooled to avoid crushing the crumb. Aim for about 1 to 1.5 inch thick slices for perfect servings that hold together well.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Cranberry Walnut Bread Recipe enough for anyone who loves baking something that’s both simple and irresistibly tasty. Its combination of tangy cranberries, crunchy walnuts, and soft, moist bread is a definite crowd-pleaser. Trust me, once you try it, this recipe will become one of your favorites to make time and time again.