Cranberry Walnut Bread

This Cranberry Walnut Bread is a soft, lightly sweet, and nutty loaf that’s perfect for breakfast, snacking, or holiday baking! Packed with tart cranberries, crunchy walnuts, and a hint of orange zest, this bread is moist, flavorful, and easy to make.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfectly balanced flavors – Tart cranberries, crunchy walnuts, and warm spices.
• Moist & tender – No dry bread here—buttermilk and orange juice keep it soft!
• Easy to make – A quick one-bowl batter, no yeast needed.
• Great for the holidays – A festive and gift-worthy loaf.
• Customizable – Add chocolate chips, spices, or glaze!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Bread:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 1 ½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp cinnamon (optional, for warmth)
• 1 cup fresh or dried cranberries (if using dried, soak in warm water for 10 minutes)
• ½ cup chopped walnuts
• ¾ cup buttermilk (or ¾ cup milk + 1 tbsp vinegar)
• ¼ cup orange juice (fresh is best!)
• 1 tbsp orange zest
• 1 large egg
• ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Optional Glaze:

• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 1-2 tbsp orange juice

Directions

Step 1: Preheat & Prepare

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
2. Stir in cranberries and walnuts.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

1. In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk, orange juice, zest, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract.

Step 4: Combine & Mix

1. Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined (don’t overmix).

Step 5: Bake

1. Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan.
2. Bake for 50-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool & Glaze

1. Let cool for 10 minutes in the pan, then transfer to a wire rack.
2. If using glaze, mix powdered sugar and orange juice, then drizzle over the cooled bread.

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy!

• Slice and serve with butter, honey, or cream cheese!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8-10 slices
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 50-55 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

• Chocolate Cranberry Bread – Add ½ cup chocolate chips.
• Spiced Holiday Bread – Add ½ tsp nutmeg & cloves.
• Maple Walnut Bread – Swap sugar for ½ cup maple syrup.
• Vegan Version – Use plant-based milk, flax egg, and coconut oil.

Storage & Freezing

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for 3 days.
• Refrigeration: Keeps for up to 1 week.
• Freezing: Wrap in plastic and foil, freeze for up to 3 months.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cranberries?

Yes! No need to thaw—just toss with 1 tbsp flour before mixing in.

How do I make this bread fluffier?

Use buttermilk and don’t overmix the batter.

Can I make this into muffins?

Yes! Bake at 350°F for 18-20 minutes.

What’s the best substitute for buttermilk?

Use ¾ cup milk + 1 tbsp vinegar or lemon juice.

Can I make this nut-free?

Yes! Simply omit the walnuts.

Why is my bread too dense?

Overmixing or using too much flour can make it heavy.

Can I add a streusel topping?

Yes! Mix butter, sugar, and flour for a crumbly topping.

What’s the best way to serve this bread?

Delicious with butter, honey, or orange marmalade.

How do I keep the cranberries from sinking?

Toss them in a little flour before adding to the batter.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes! Use two loaf pans and bake as directed.

Conclusion

This Cranberry Walnut Bread is a deliciously moist, slightly tangy, and nutty treat that’s perfect for fall, winter, and the holidays! Whether you enjoy it with a cup of coffee, as a gift, or for breakfast, this easy quick bread will be a family favorite. Try it today and enjoy a slice of homemade goodness!

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