Who doesn’t love the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through their home?
Today, we’re diving into a recipe that’s taking 2024 by storm – Cranberry Walnut Bread!
This delightful loaf combines the tartness of cranberries with the rich, earthy flavor of walnuts, creating a taste sensation that’s simply irresistible.
Did you know that cranberries are packed with antioxidants, making this bread not just delicious but nutritious too? Let’s roll up our sleeves and get baking!
Health Benefits of Cranberry Walnut Bread
You might be thinking, “Bread? Healthy?” Well, this isn’t your average loaf! Let’s break down the nutritional powerhouses in our Cranberry Walnut Bread:
- Cranberries: These little red gems are antioxidant bombs! They’re packed with vitamin C and fiber, and may help prevent urinary tract infections.
- Walnuts: Hello, omega-3 fatty acids! Walnuts are heart-healthy and provide a good dose of protein and fiber.
- Whole Grains: If you opt for whole wheat flour, you’re adding extra fiber and nutrients to your bread.
Compared to many store-bought breads, our homemade version has no preservatives and you control the sugar content.
It’s all about balance, folks! Enjoy a slice with your morning coffee or as a pre-workout snack.
Variations and Serving Suggestions
One of the best things about this Cranberry Walnut Bread? It’s versatile! Here are some ways to mix it up:
- Go savory: Reduce the sugar and add some herbs like rosemary or thyme.
- Make it festive: Add some orange zest and a dash of cinnamon for a holiday twist.
- Try it toasted: A slice of this bread, lightly toasted and smeared with cream cheese? Heaven!
- Get cheesy: It pairs beautifully with sharp cheddar or creamy brie.
- Soup’s on: Serve it alongside a warm bowl of butternut squash soup for a cozy meal.
Don’t be afraid to experiment! This recipe is forgiving and fun to play with.
Tips for Perfect Cranberry Walnut Bread Every Time
Want to elevate your bread game? Here are some pro tips:
- Cranberry selection: Fresh cranberries give a tart pop, while dried ones offer a chewier texture. Both work great!
- Walnut wisdom: Toast your walnuts before adding them to the batter. It enhances their flavor dramatically!
- Knead for success: With quick breads like this, less is more. Overmixing can lead to tough bread.
- Moisture matters: If your bread is coming out dry, try adding a mashed banana or some applesauce to the batter.
- Storage smarts: Keep your bread fresh by storing it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
Remember, baking is part science, part art. Don’t be discouraged if your first loaf isn’t perfect – practice makes perfect!
Happy baking, and may your kitchen always be filled with the irresistible aroma of freshly baked Cranberry Walnut Bread!
Recipe FAQ’s
Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can! Use 3/4 cup of dried cranberries in place of 1 cup fresh. You might want to soak them in warm water for 10 minutes before adding to the batter to plump them up.
How can I make this bread gluten-free?
Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Make sure to choose one that includes xanthan gum, or add 1/4 teaspoon of xanthan gum per cup of gluten-free flour.
Is this bread suitable for vegans?
The original recipe isn’t vegan, but you can easily make it so! Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg), use plant-based milk, and substitute butter with vegetable oil or melted coconut oil.
Can I make this in a bread machine?
Absolutely! Add the ingredients in the order recommended by your bread machine manufacturer. Use the “quick bread” or “cake” setting if available.
Cranberry Walnut Bread Recipe
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup butter melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup fresh cranberries chopped
- 1 cup walnuts chopped
- Zest of one orange optional, but highly recommended!
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk together melted butter, eggs, and milk.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and stir until just combined. Don’t overmix!
- Gently fold in cranberries, walnuts, and orange zest.
- Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan.
- Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.