Best Cranberry Walnut Bread
Welcome to my cozy corner of the kitchen, where the delightful aroma of freshly baked Cranberry Walnut Bread fills the air and warms the heart. As someone who has been perfecting this recipe for a few years now, I can confidently say it has become a cherished staple in my home. This Cranberry Walnut Bread is a harmonious blend of tart cranberries, crunchy walnuts, and a hint of citrus that dances on the taste buds.
There’s something incredibly satisfying about creating a loaf from scratch, infusing your kitchen with the comforting essence of home. This recipe has been a labor of love, and each slice tells a story of countless Sunday mornings and impromptu gatherings with friends.
Not only is this Cranberry Walnut Bread a testament to the joy of baking, but it’s also a feast for the eyes and the perfect companion for a cozy afternoon tea or a heartfelt breakfast. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, making it suitable for both seasoned bakers and those just beginning their culinary journey.
Whether you’re a kitchen enthusiast or someone seeking a warm, homemade treat, join me in bringing a touch of nostalgia and a burst of flavor to your home. Let’s dive into the steps of creating this Cranberry Walnut Bread masterpiece and embark on a journey of delightful aromas and delectable bites. Your kitchen is about to become a haven of homemade bliss.
Questions I often get about this recipe:
Q: Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh ones?
A: Yes, you can use frozen cranberries. Just make sure to chop them while they are still frozen to prevent excessive bleeding into the batter.
Q: Can I substitute buttermilk with regular milk?
A: Yes, you can substitute buttermilk with regular milk. You can also add 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to a cup of milk as a buttermilk substitute.
Q: Is it possible to make this bread gluten-free?
A: Yes, you can try using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour. Additionally, ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free.
Q: Can I omit the walnuts or replace them with another nut?
A: Absolutely, you can omit the walnuts or replace them with your preferred nuts, such as pecans or almonds.
Q: What’s the purpose of adding orange zest?
A: The orange zest adds a citrusy flavor that complements the cranberries. It’s optional, but it enhances the overall taste of the bread.
Q: How should I store this bread?
A: Store the cranberry walnut bread in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Keep it at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Q: Can I make muffins instead of a loaf with this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use this batter to make muffins. Adjust the baking time to around 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean when inserted into a muffin.
Q: Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?
A: Yes, you can reduce the sugar if you prefer a less sweet bread. Keep in mind that cranberries are tart, so the sweetness level will be affected.
Q: Can I freeze the cranberry walnut bread?
A: Yes, you can freeze the bread. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer bag. Thaw at room temperature when ready to eat.
What you need to make this delicious bread:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries, coarsely chopped
1/2 cup chopped walnuts
2 large eggs
1 cup buttermilk
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Zest of one orange (optional)
How to make the bread:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs. Add the buttermilk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
Gently fold in the chopped cranberries, chopped walnuts, and orange zest (if using).
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly.
Bake in the preheated oven for 55-65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The baking time may vary, so start checking for doneness around 50 minutes.
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Once cooled, slice and enjoy your homemade Cranberry Walnut Bread!
Printable Recipe:
Cranberry Walnut Bread
Indulge in the warm embrace of homemade goodness with our Cranberry Walnut Bread. This delightful recipe weaves together the sweet-tart allure of cranberries and the earthy crunch of walnuts, creating a loaf that's both comforting and irresistibly flavorful. Join me in this effortless baking journey to fill your home with the rich aroma of freshly baked bliss. Perfect for breakfast, tea, or any cozy occasion – this Cranberry Walnut Bread is a slice of homemade happiness!
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
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries, coarsely chopped
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of one orange (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x5-inch loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs. Add the buttermilk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
- Gently fold in the chopped cranberries, chopped walnuts, and orange zest (if using).
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 55-65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The baking time may vary, so start checking for doneness around 50 minutes.
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, slice and enjoy your homemade Cranberry Walnut Bread!
Notes
Feel free to adjust the ingredient quantities or add other ingredients according to your preferences. Enjoy your delicious homemade bread!
If you enjoyed this recipe, please share it on your social media! I would love for more people to try this delicious and easy-to-make recipe. If you have any questions or feedback, please feel free to leave a comment below. I would love to hear from you! Shhh… Join our secret foodie group on Facebook
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