Cranberry Orange Walnut Bread: 7 Steps to Pure Bliss

Let me tell you, there’s something truly magical about the combination of cranberries, orange, and walnuts in this delightful bread! Cranberry Orange Walnut Bread has become my go-to recipe for cozy mornings and cheerful gatherings. The tangy bursts of cranberry paired with the bright citrusy notes of fresh orange juice and zest create a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist. And the walnuts? Oh, they add that perfect crunch that makes every bite feel special.

Whenever I bake this bread, I can’t help but think of my dear friend Sarah. We often have brunch together, and this bread has become a staple on our table. The first time I made it for her, she couldn’t stop raving about how it was the perfect blend of sweet and tart. Now, it’s our little tradition to enjoy a warm slice with a smear of butter and a cup of coffee. It’s a simple pleasure that sparks joy and brings back fond memories each time I bake it. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to share it with everyone you know!bcnx

Ingredients List

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this scrumptious Cranberry Orange Walnut Bread. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 large egg, at room temperature
• ¼ cup butter, melted and cooled (feel free to substitute with dairy-free options)
• ½ cup dark brown sugar for rich sweetness
• 2 tablespoons honey to enhance the flavor
• ¾ cup freshly squeezed orange juice for that bright citrus kick
• 1 tablespoon freshly grated orange zest to amplify the orange flavor
• 2 cups bread or all-purpose flour, depending on your preference
• 1½ teaspoons baking powder to help it rise
• ½ teaspoon baking soda for extra leavening
• A pinch of kosher salt to balance the flavors
• 1 cup fresh cranberries, chopped (you can use dried or frozen if needed)
• ½ cup chopped walnuts for that lovely crunch

These ingredients come together beautifully, creating a delightful blend of flavors and textures that you’ll absolutely love!

How to Prepare Cranberry Orange Walnut Bread

Now that you’ve gathered all your ingredients, let’s dive into the fun part: making this delicious Cranberry Orange Walnut Bread! I promise it’s easier than it looks, and every step is filled with delightful aromas that’ll have your mouth watering. So, grab your mixing bowls, and let’s get started!

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven: First things first, preheat your oven to 350ºF (177ºC). This is a crucial step, as it ensures your bread bakes evenly. While that’s heating up, you can prepare your loaf pan.
2. Prepare the loaf pan: Line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper. This will make it super easy to lift the bread out later. Don’t skip this step – trust me, nobody wants a loaf stuck in the pan!
3. Mix the wet ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together one large room-temperature egg, ¼ cup of melted butter (cooled), ½ cup of dark brown sugar, and 2 tablespoons of honey. Then, add in ¾ cup of freshly squeezed orange juice and 1 tablespoon of freshly grated orange zest. Mix until everything is well combined. You want that lovely citrus scent filling your kitchen!
4. Add the dry ingredients: Next, sift in 2 cups of bread or all-purpose flour, 1½ teaspoons of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, and a pinch of kosher salt. Gently stir until just combined – a few lumps are okay! Overmixing can lead to a dense bread, and we definitely want it light and fluffy.
5. Fold in the goodies: Now, it’s time to add in 1 cup of chopped fresh cranberries and ½ cup of chopped walnuts. Gently fold them into the batter until they’re evenly distributed. This is where the fun begins – you can already imagine the delightful bites of tart cranberries and crunchy walnuts!
6. Pour into the pan: Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth it out into the corners. Don’t be afraid to give it a little shake to level it out – it’ll help it bake evenly.
7. Bake it up: Place your loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-55 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s lightly browned on top and a toothpick or tester comes out clean. The aroma will be irresistible, and you might find it hard to wait!
8. Cool down: Once it’s done baking, transfer the pan to a wire cooling rack. Let it cool for at least 30 minutes. This cooling time is essential for the flavors to set and makes it easier to slice.
9. Slice and enjoy: Using the edges of the parchment, lift the loaf out of the pan and place it on a cutting surface. Grab a sharp knife and slice it into thick pieces. Serve it warm or at room temperature, and don’t forget to share a slice with someone special!

And there you have it! This recipe is straightforward, and I promise you’ll be rewarded with a scrumptious bread that’s perfect for snacking, breakfast, or even a lovely gift for friends. Happy baking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cranberry Orange Walnut Bread isn’t just any loaf; it’s a delightful treat that’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen. Here’s why you’ll adore making it:

• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have this bread in the oven before you know it!
• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of tangy cranberries, zesty orange, and crunchy walnuts creates a flavor explosion that’s both sweet and tart.
• Versatile Snack: Enjoy it as a breakfast treat, a midday snack, or even as a lovely addition to your holiday gatherings.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite nuts or dried fruits, making this recipe adaptable for any palate.
• Perfect for Sharing: It makes a wonderful gift for friends and family, especially when you package it up with a little love!

Once you try it, I promise you’ll be hooked and eager to bake it again and again!

Tips for Success

To ensure your Cranberry Orange Walnut Bread turns out perfectly every time, here are some handy tips:

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your egg is at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother batter and contributes to a lighter bread.
• Don’t Overmix: When combining your wet and dry ingredients, stir gently until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf, and we want it fluffy and tender!
• Check for Freshness: Use fresh cranberries for the best flavor. If you’re using frozen, don’t thaw them; just toss them in frozen to help keep the bread from getting too wet.
• Cooling Is Key: Resist the urge to slice too soon! Letting the bread cool for at least 30 minutes helps set the flavors and makes slicing easier.
• Test for Doneness: If you’re unsure about baking time, do the toothpick test. It should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.

With these tips, you’ll be on your way to baking a delicious loaf that’s sure to impress!

Variations

One of the best things about this Cranberry Orange Walnut Bread is how versatile it is! You can easily switch up the ingredients to match your taste or what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Nuts: If walnuts aren’t your thing, try using chopped pecans, almonds, or even hazelnuts for a different crunch and flavor.
• Dried Fruits: Swap out fresh cranberries for dried cranberries, raisins, or even chopped dried apricots for a sweet twist.
• Spices: Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm, cozy flavor that’s perfect for chilly days.
• Citrus Zest: Experiment with different citrus fruits! Lemon or grapefruit zest can bring a refreshing change to the flavor profile.
• Chocolate Chip Delight: For a decadent touch, fold in some semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips along with the cranberries for a sweet surprise!

Feel free to get creative with this recipe and make it your own. Each variation brings a unique twist that’s sure to delight!

Nutritional Information

When you’re enjoying a slice of this delightful Cranberry Orange Walnut Bread, it’s nice to know what you’re fueling your body with! Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown per slice:

• Calories: 180
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 30mg
• Sodium: 100mg
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 3g
• Sugar: 10g

Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. Enjoy this bread guilt-free and savor every delicious bite!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing your Cranberry Orange Walnut Bread properly will keep it fresh and delicious for days! Once the bread has cooled completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. You can also place it in an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh at room temperature for up to 5 days.

If you want to enjoy it later, you can freeze it! Just wrap the loaf (or individual slices) well and pop it in the freezer. It’ll keep for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to indulge, simply thaw it at room temperature or pop it in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds for a warm slice.

For a little extra warmth, you can also toast slices in a toaster oven or skillet for a delightful crunch. Trust me, that crispy outside with the soft, flavorful inside is just heavenly!

FAQ Section

I know you might have a few questions about making this delightful Cranberry Orange Walnut Bread, so let’s dive into some common queries!

• Can I use frozen cranberries? Absolutely! If you’re using frozen cranberries, don’t thaw them beforehand. Just toss them in while they’re still frozen to keep the bread from becoming too wet.
• What can I substitute for walnuts? If walnuts aren’t your thing, feel free to swap in chopped pecans, almonds, or even sunflower seeds for a different crunch. It’s all about what you love!
• Can I make this bread gluten-free? Yes! Just use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, and you’ll still get that wonderful texture and flavor without the gluten.
• How do I know when the bread is done baking? You can do the trusty toothpick test! Insert a toothpick into the center, and it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
• How should I store the leftover bread? Once cooled, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh for up to 5 days at room temperature!

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