Cranberry Walnut Bread

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Nothing says cozy quite like a warm slice of cranberry walnut bread fresh from the oven. This recipe wraps together tart cranberries, crunchy walnuts, and a lightly sweet, moist loaf that’s perfect for any season. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet fall morning or need a quick breakfast option for guests, this bread feels both rustic and elevated.

Cranberry walnut bread walks the line between comfort food and holiday treat. It’s hearty enough to serve with butter or cream cheese, yet flavorful enough to enjoy all on its own. The combination of cranberries and walnuts brings both brightness and earthiness, making it a year-round favorite in our kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Walnut Bread

This bread is a must-bake for so many reasons. First, it requires no yeast, meaning you get to skip the rising time and enjoy the sweet aroma of baking in under an hour. The balance of sweet and tart makes every bite interesting, while the texture lands somewhere between a classic quick bread and a tender cake. Plus, it keeps well, freezes beautifully, and makes a thoughtful homemade gift.

What Kind of Cranberries Should I Use?

You can use either fresh or dried cranberries depending on what you have on hand. Fresh cranberries will add a bold tartness and pop of color, while dried cranberries offer a chewier texture and slightly sweeter flavor. If using dried, soak them in warm water or orange juice for 10 minutes before folding them into the batter to keep them plump and juicy.

Ingredients for the Cranberry Walnut Bread

The ingredients for this cranberry walnut bread are simple and pantry-friendly, making it easy to whip up anytime. Here’s what you’ll need:

All-purpose flour provides the perfect structure for a moist and sturdy loaf.

Granulated sugar gives the bread its sweetness and helps it brown nicely.

Baking powder ensures a good rise and light texture without the need for yeast.

Salt enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.

Milk adds moisture and richness to the crumb.

Egg binds the ingredients together and contributes to the bread’s structure.

Vegetable oil keeps the loaf tender and moist even after a few days.

Vanilla extract deepens the overall flavor and pairs beautifully with the cranberries.

Chopped walnuts bring a satisfying crunch and nutty richness.

Cranberries add bright flavor and a bit of chewiness or tart burst depending on the type used.

How To Make the Cranberry Walnut Bread

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. This ensures even distribution and prevents clumping.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 4: Make the Batter

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and gently stir until just combined. Fold in the cranberries and walnuts, being careful not to overmix.

Step 5: Bake the Bread

Transfer the batter to your prepared loaf pan. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

How to Store and Serve Cranberry Walnut Bread

This bread is perfect for breakfast, snacks, or a light dessert, and it serves about 8 people generously. Serve it warm with a pat of butter, a swipe of cream cheese, or even toasted with a drizzle of honey. If you’re entertaining, it pairs beautifully with tea or coffee.

To store, wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze individual slices wrapped in parchment and stored in a freezer-safe bag.

What to Serve With Cranberry Walnut Bread?

Cream Cheese or Honey Butter

A tangy cream cheese spread or a whipped honey butter makes this bread shine with every bite.

Fruit Salad

Bright, juicy fruits like oranges, grapes, or melon balance the dense, nutty flavors of the bread.

Hot Coffee or Spiced Tea

Brewed coffee or chai tea enhances the warm spices and tart cranberries.

Scrambled Eggs

Make it part of a hearty breakfast with soft scrambled eggs and crispy bacon.

Vanilla Yogurt

A scoop of yogurt alongside a slice creates a creamy, tangy contrast.

Roasted Nuts

Serve extra toasted walnuts or pecans for an added crunch element.

Sharp Cheddar Cheese

If you enjoy sweet and savory, a slice of sharp cheese with this bread is surprisingly satisfying.

Apple Compote

A warm cinnamon-apple topping complements the fall flavors beautifully.

Want More Bread Ideas?

If you love this cranberry walnut bread, you’ll want to check out these other comforting favorites from Mia Plates:

• Herb Cheese Quick Bread Recipe is full of savory, cheesy goodness.
• Red Lobster’s Cheese Biscuit Loaf brings the iconic restaurant flavor to your home kitchen.
• Southern Honey Butter Cornbread Poppers are perfect for gatherings and snack trays.
• Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is another nutty quick bread that melts in your mouth.
• Lemon Rhubarb Loaf with Glaze offers a tangy twist and pretty presentation.

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If you make it, come back and share how it went. Did you use dried cranberries or fresh? Did you toast the walnuts beforehand? Your tweaks inspire others and help build a better baking community.

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