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Homemade Cranberry Walnut Loaf with cranberries and walnuts on a wooden table

Cranberry Walnut Bread

A heartwarming and vibrant loaf of bread that combines the tartness of fresh cranberries and the delightful crunch of walnuts, perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Course Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 10 servings
Calories 180 kcal

Ingredients
  

Dry Ingredients

  • 2 cups unbleached flour Offers a fluffy base
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda For that perfect rise
  • teaspoons baking powder To ensure fluffiness
  • 1 cup sugar For a touch of sweetness
  • ½ teaspoon sea salt Enhances all flavors

Wet Ingredients

  • 1 large egg Adding richness and structure
  • ½ cup fresh orange juice For zesty brightness
  • Zest from 1 orange grated orange zest Adds a fragrant aroma
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter Gives the bread rich tenderness

Add-Ins

  • 1 cup fresh cranberries Halved for bursts of tartness
  • ½ cup chopped walnuts For a delightful crunch

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare a loaf pan by spraying it with non-stick spray or lining it with parchment paper.
  • In a mixing bowl, sift together the unbleached flour, baking soda, baking powder, sugar, and sea salt.
  • Stir in the halved cranberries.
  • In another bowl, beat the large egg thoroughly, then add the orange juice and the zest.
  • Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and mix gently with a spatula until just combined.
  • Fold in the chopped walnuts.

Baking

  • Transfer the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with the spatula.
  • Bake for 50-55 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
  • Allow the loaf to cool in the pan, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Notes

Use room temperature ingredients for better rise and texture, and avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender. Fresh cranberries are best, but if unavailable, high-quality frozen ones can be used.
Keyword Comfort Food, Cranberry Bread, Holiday Baking, Quick Bread, Walnut Bread