Mom’s Cranberry Walnut Bread

The delightful Mom’s Cranberry Walnut Bread is a must-try for anyone looking to add a burst of flavor to their table. This bread combines the tartness of fresh cranberries with the rich crunch of walnuts, making it perfect for breakfast, snacks, or festive occasions. Its simple preparation and unique taste will make it a favorite in your household, whether you’re hosting a brunch or enjoying a quiet afternoon at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip up this delicious bread.
• Versatile Flavor: The combination of cranberries and walnuts allows for pairing with cream cheese or butter, enhancing its taste.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for holiday gatherings, brunches, or simply a cozy evening snack.
• Fresh Ingredients: Made with wholesome ingredients that contribute to both flavor and nutrition.
• Customizable: Feel free to experiment by adding spices or other nuts to suit your palate.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes baking more enjoyable and efficient. Here’s what you’ll need to create this tasty bread.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Measuring spoons
• Measuring cups
• Sifter
• Whisk
• Non-toxic bread loaf pan
• Food processor

Why These Tools Matter

• Measuring spoons & cups: Precision in measurement ensures consistent results every time you bake.
• Sifter: Helps achieve a light texture by aerating the flour and removing lumps.
• Food processor: Quickly chops cranberries and walnuts, saving time and effort in preparation.

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

• 2 Cups Unbleached Flour (I use Bob Mills)
• 1/2 teaspoon Baking Soda
• 1 1/2 teaspoon Baking Powder
• 1 Cup Sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon Sea Salt

Wet Ingredients

• 1 Large Egg
• 1/2 Cup Orange Juice
• Grated Orange Zest
• 2 Tbsp Butter, melted

Mix-ins

• 1 Cup Fresh Cranberries, cut in half or chopped in food processor
• 1/2 Cup Walnuts, chopped

Kitchen Gadgets

• Basic kitchen gadgets (measuring spoons, cups, sifter, whisk etc)
• Non-toxic bread loaf pan
• Food processor

How to Make Mom’s Cranberry Walnut Bread

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Adjust the oven rack to the middle position and preheat the oven to 350° F.

Step 2: Prepare the Loaf Pan

Spray a loaf pan with non-cooking spray and/or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

Sift the dry ingredients together in a large mixing bowl. Add the cranberries and stir until they are evenly coated with flour.

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl:
1. Beat the egg.
2. Add the orange juice and grated orange zest.
3. Mix in the melted butter until combined.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Slowly add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture:
1. Use a strong rubber spatula or wooden spoon to mix gently.
2. Be careful not to overmix; just combine until there are no dry spots.
3. Gently stir in the walnuts.

Step 6: Transfer Batter

Scrape the batter into the prepared loaf pan using your spatula. Even out the top for consistent baking.

Step 7: Bake

Place the loaf pan in your preheated oven:
– Bake for 50-55 minutes.
– Check doneness by inserting a knife into the center; it should come out clean.

Step 8: Cool and Slice

Allow the bread to cool in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack. Once cooled, cut into even slices. Serve plain or with cream cheese or butter for added richness. Enjoy!

How to Serve Mom’s Cranberry Walnut Bread

Serving Mom’s Cranberry Walnut Bread can be a delightful experience, whether it’s for breakfast, a snack, or dessert. This bread is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways to enhance its flavor.

Toast with Cream Cheese

• Spread cream cheese on warm slices for a rich, creamy contrast to the tart cranberries.

Butter and Jam

• Top your slices with softened butter and your favorite fruit jam for a sweet treat that pairs perfectly with the bread’s tanginess.

Breakfast Sandwich

• Use slices of this bread as the base for a breakfast sandwich filled with scrambled eggs and cheese for a hearty morning meal.

Salad Accompaniment

• Serve alongside a fresh salad to add some sweetness and crunch, making it an excellent side dish for lunch.

Snack with Tea or Coffee

• Enjoy a slice with your afternoon tea or coffee. The bread’s flavors complement both beverages beautifully.

Dessert Option

• Serve warm slices drizzled with honey or maple syrup for a delicious dessert that satisfies your sweet tooth.

How to Perfect Mom’s Cranberry Walnut Bread

To ensure your Mom’s Cranberry Walnut Bread turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh cranberries and quality walnuts make all the difference in flavor and texture.
• Measure Accurately – Be precise when measuring flour and sugar to achieve the right consistency in your batter.
• Don’t Overmix – Gently mix the wet and dry ingredients to maintain a light, fluffy texture. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf.
• Cool Properly – Allow the bread to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This prevents sogginess.
• Store Correctly – Keep leftover bread wrapped tightly at room temperature for up to three days, or freeze for longer storage without losing flavor.
• Experiment with Add-Ins – Feel free to add other nuts or seeds for extra crunch and nutrition, tailoring the recipe to your taste.

Best Side Dishes for Mom’s Cranberry Walnut Bread

Pairing side dishes with Mom’s Cranberry Walnut Bread can elevate your meal experience. Here are some complementary options that work wonderfully together.

1. Greek Yogurt Parfait – Layer Greek yogurt with fresh fruit and granola for a refreshing breakfast option.
2. Mixed Green Salad – A light salad with vinaigrette balances the sweetness of the bread nicely.
3. Cheese Platter – Serve assorted cheeses like brie or goat cheese alongside slices of bread for a sophisticated snack.
4. Fruit Compote – A warm fruit compote made from seasonal fruits adds an extra layer of flavor when drizzled over each slice.
5. Vegetable Soup – A bowl of hearty vegetable soup provides warmth and complements the bread perfectly during colder months.
6. Deli Meat Wraps – Make wraps using turkey or chicken breast; their savory flavor contrasts well with the sweetness of the cranberry walnut bread.
7. Nut Butter Dip – Pair slices with almond or peanut butter for added protein and richness in flavor.
8. Chia Seed Pudding – A chia seed pudding topped with berries makes for a nutritious side that works well at breakfast or brunch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When baking Mom’s Cranberry Walnut Bread, small errors can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some common mistakes and tips to avoid them.

• Overmixing the batter – Mixing too much can make the bread dense. Stir just until combined for a lighter texture.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately – Using the wrong amounts can affect the outcome. Use measuring cups and spoons for precision.
• Forgetting to preheat the oven – Baking in a cold oven can result in uneven cooking. Always preheat before you start mixing.
• Skipping the sifting process – Sifting flour helps aerate it, making your bread fluffier. Take this step seriously to improve your texture.
• Using old cranberries or walnuts – Fresh ingredients are key for flavor and texture. Always check the freshness of your items before use.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container to keep moisture out.
• Mom’s Cranberry Walnut Bread stays fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Mom’s Cranberry Walnut Bread

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in a freezer bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing quality.

Reheating Mom’s Cranberry Walnut Bread

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F and warm slices for about 10 minutes for best results.
• Microwave – Heat individual slices on medium power for about 15-20 seconds; be careful not to overheat.
• Stovetop – Place slices on a skillet over low heat until warmed through, which adds a nice crispness.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Mom’s Cranberry Walnut Bread?

Mom’s Cranberry Walnut Bread is a delightful quick bread featuring tart cranberries and crunchy walnuts, perfect for breakfast or snacks.

Can I substitute other nuts in this recipe?

Yes! You can use pecans or almonds if you prefer different flavors or textures.

How do I make Mom’s Cranberry Walnut Bread gluten-free?

You can replace unbleached flour with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring it has xanthan gum for structure.

Can I add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg?

Absolutely! Adding spices can enhance the flavor profile. Start with 1/2 teaspoon and adjust according to taste.

How should I serve Mom’s Cranberry Walnut Bread?

This bread is delicious served plain, but you can also enjoy it with cream cheese or butter for extra richness.

Conclusion

Mom’s Cranberry Walnut Bread is not only tasty but also offers great versatility. You can customize it by adding different nuts, spices, or even citrus zest. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether enjoyed at breakfast or as an afternoon snack. Try making it today!

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