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As the crisp autumn air begins to weave through the trees, I’m reminded of the warm, inviting aroma of freshly baked cranberry walnut bread wafting through my kitchen. Just thinking about it makes my mouth water! This delightful quick bread strikes the perfect balance between sweet and tart, featuring juicy cranberries nestled amidst crunchy walnuts—an irresistible combination that elevates any meal. Whether you’re looking for a cozy breakfast treat, a satisfying snack, or a dessert to impress guests at your next gathering, this moist cranberry walnut loaf has you covered.

I often whip up this recipe when the days grow shorter and the evenings call for something comforting. With minimal effort and pantry staples, you can have a scrumptious loaf ready in no time. Plus, the options for variation—like opting for dried cranberries or switching to gluten-free flour—make this recipe versatile enough to suit everyone’s preferences. So, let’s dive into this perfect fall bake that will surely become a favorite in your home!

Why Choose Cranberry Walnut Bread Today?

Irresistible aroma: The warm scent of baking bread fills your home, creating a cozy atmosphere.
Easy preparation: With just a few simple steps, even novice bakers can make this delectable loaf.
Perfectly balanced flavors: The tartness of cranberries harmonizes beautifully with the crunch of walnuts, making every bite delightful.
Versatile options: Customize with dried cranberries or gluten-free flour to suit dietary needs, ensuring everyone enjoys it.
Crowd-pleaser: This bread is ideal for any occasion, from breakfast gatherings to holiday celebrations, impressing friends and family alike!

Cranberry Walnut Bread Ingredients

For the Batter

All-Purpose Flour – The main structure of the bread; substitute with whole wheat flour for added nuttiness.
Baking Powder – A leavening agent to help the bread rise; make sure it’s fresh for the best results.
Baking Soda – Works alongside acidic ingredients for rising; essential for that fluffy texture.
Salt – Enhances flavor and balances sweetness; always a key player in baking.
Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and moisture; can be swapped for brown sugar for deeper flavor.
Egg – Binds the ingredients together and adds richness; for a vegan option, use a flax egg.
Orange Juice – Provides moisture and a delightful citrus zing; feel free to substitute with lemon juice for a different twist.
Vegetable Oil – Contributes moisture; melted coconut oil or butter can also enhance flavor.
Vanilla Extract – Elevates the sweetness and flavor profile; consider almond extract for a unique twist.
Fresh/Frozen Cranberries – Add tartness and moisture; dried cranberries can be used if soaked first for plumpness.
Chopped Walnuts – Introduce crunch and depth; pecans work beautifully as a substitute if desired.

Optional Topping

Cream Cheese or Butter – Perfect for spreading on warm slices; elevates the comfort factor of your cranberry walnut bread!

Get ready to enjoy the delightful and cozy experience of baking this cranberry walnut bread!

How to Make Cranberry Walnut Bread

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×5 inch loaf pan by greasing it and lining the bottom with parchment paper. This ensures your bread comes out easily and bakes uniformly.
Whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl. This step blends the dry ingredients and incorporates air, helping the bread to rise.
Combine the egg, sugar, orange juice, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract in a separate bowl, whisking until everything is well mixed. This helps create a rich, moist batter.
Mix wet and dry ingredients by gently combining them, stirring just until incorporated. Fold in cranberries and walnuts carefully, taking care not to overmix which can lead to a dense loaf.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly. This will help the bread bake uniformly, resulting in a lovely, golden-brown finish.
Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will be filled with a warm, inviting aroma during this time!
Cool the bread in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. This allows it to finish setting and makes slicing easier.

Optional: Serve warm with a pat of butter for an extra cozy treat!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Cranberry Walnut Bread options are ideal for busy home cooks looking to save time. You can prep the batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the dry ingredients and storing them in an airtight container. Additionally, chop the cranberries and walnuts beforehand, keeping them refrigerated until you’re ready to bake. When it’s time to bake, simply whisk the wet ingredients together, combine them with the dry mix, and fold in the prepared cranberries and walnuts. This way, you’ll have fresh, warm cranberry walnut bread with just a bit of effort, making your mornings delightful and stress-free! Just remember, the bread is just as delicious freshly baked as it is if prepared ahead.

Cranberry Walnut Bread Variations

Make this delightful loaf your own with these fun and delicious twists!

Dried Cranberries: Use soaked dried cranberries in place of fresh for a sweeter alternative. Just plump them in warm water or juice for added moisture.
Nut Swap: Replace walnuts with pecans or hazelnuts to create a different flavor profile. Each nut brings its own unique texture and taste, enhancing your bread’s character.
Gluten-Free: Opt for a gluten-free flour blend to cater to dietary needs. This swap still results in a delightful loaf without sacrificing taste or texture.
Citrus Zest: Incorporate orange or lemon zest into the batter for an extra burst of citrus flavor. The zest brightens the bread and harmonizes beautifully with the cranberries.
Spicy Kick: Mix in a pinch of cinnamon or ground ginger to add warmth and a subtle spice to your bread. This twist can elevate your loaf into a seasonal indulgence!
Honey Instead of Sugar: Replace granulated sugar with honey for a more natural sweetness and slight floral notes. Just reduce the liquid in the recipe to balance it out.
Chia or Flax Egg: For a vegan version, substitute the egg with a chia or flax egg to maintain that classic binding quality. Simply mix one tablespoon of chia/flax seeds with three tablespoons of water and let sit until gel-like.
Cream Cheese Filling: Create a creamy center by swirling softened cream cheese into the batter before baking. It adds a delightful surprise in every slice!

Explore these options and find your favorite twist to make this Cranberry Walnut Bread your very own!

Expert Tips for Cranberry Walnut Bread

Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh baking powder and soda to ensure proper rising; stale leavening agents can lead to a dense loaf.
Avoid Overmixing: Stir gently when combining wet and dry ingredients to keep the bread light and fluffy; overmixing can make it tough.
Check for Doneness: Insert a toothpick in the center; look for it to come out clean or with a few moist crumbs, indicating your cranberry walnut bread is perfectly baked.
Cool Completely: Let the bread cool completely before slicing for clean, even pieces; warm bread can crumble, making slicing a challenge.
Storage Tips: Keep in an airtight container to maintain moisture; freeze for longer storage, and thaw overnight for freshness.

How to Store and Freeze Cranberry Walnut Bread

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days to maintain freshness and moisture.

Fridge: If you prefer a longer shelf life, you can refrigerate it for up to a week, but be aware that it may dry out. Wrap it tightly to prevent this.

Freezer: For extended storage, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm slices in the toaster or oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes to restore that freshly baked taste.

What to Serve with Cranberry Walnut Bread?

Enjoy this delightful loaf in various ways, perfectly complementing its sweet and tart profile.

Creamy Butter: A classic pairing that melts into each slice, enhancing the warm, comforting flavors of the bread.
Cream Cheese Spread: The tangy richness of cream cheese adds a delightful layer of creaminess, making each bite especially indulgent.
Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright, juicy fruits balance the density of the bread, providing a refreshing contrast with each forkful.
Honey Drizzle: A touch of sweetness paired with the tart cranberries creates a lovely harmony that elevates your breakfast experience.
Warm Coffee: The robust flavor of a freshly brewed cup of coffee enhances the bread’s earthy notes, making for a cozy morning treat.
Herbal Tea: Opt for herbal teas like chamomile or chai; their aromatic qualities beautifully complement the bread’s flavors and create a soothing experience.
Vanilla Ice Cream: For a dessert twist, serving warm slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream takes it to a heavenly level of comfort food.
Orange Glaze: Drizzling a homemade orange glaze over slices intensifies the citrus zing, making it a festive treat for holiday gatherings.

Cranberry Walnut Bread Recipe FAQs

What type of cranberries should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use either fresh or frozen cranberries for this cranberry walnut bread. If using dried cranberries, I recommend soaking them in warm water or orange juice for about 15-20 minutes to plump them up before adding to the batter. This helps retain moisture and enhances their flavor in the bread.

How should I store leftover cranberry walnut bread?
To store your cranberry walnut bread, place it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, and pop it in the freezer where it can last for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it up before serving for that fresh-baked taste!

Can I make this cranberry walnut bread gluten-free?
Very much! To make a gluten-free version, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. I often recommend brands like Bob’s Red Mill or King Arthur Flour for reliable results. Just remember to check that your baking powder and any other ingredients are also gluten-free.

What are some common issues when making cranberry walnut bread?
One common issue is overmixing the batter after combining the wet and dry ingredients, which can lead to a dense loaf. To avoid this, mix gently until just combined. If you find that your bread isn’t rising well, check the freshness of your baking powder and baking soda, as stale ingredients can affect the texture. Finally, always perform the toothpick test to ensure it’s fully baked—stick it in the center, and it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

Can I add other nuts or fruit to the recipe?
Of course! This bread is quite versatile. You can swap walnuts for chopped pecans or almonds for a different nutty flavor. Additionally, feel free to mix in other fruits like chopped apples or pears for a unique twist, but keep in mind that the additional moisture may require slight adjustments to the baking time.

Is this cranberry walnut bread safe for my dog to eat?
No, it’s best to avoid giving this bread to your dog. Ingredients like cranberries and sugar are not recommended for canine diets, and the bread’s high carbohydrate content isn’t suitable. If you want to share a treat with your furry friend, consider baking a special dog-friendly recipe instead!