Cranberry walnut bread is a delightful fusion of sweet and nutty flavors, making it an irresistible treat for breakfast, tea-time, or even a light dessert. This artisan-style bread has a crusty golden exterior with a soft, slightly tangy crumb, thanks to the combination of fresh cranberries and crunchy walnuts. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this easy cranberry walnut bread recipe will become a staple in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect Texture – A crisp crust with a soft, slightly chewy center.
- Sweet & Nutty Balance – The tart cranberries complement the rich, buttery walnuts.
- Versatile – Enjoy it plain, toasted with butter, or even as a base for French toast.
This homemade cranberry walnut bread is healthier and tastier than store-bought versions, including the popular Costco cranberry walnut bread. Plus, it’s highly customizable—add orange zest for a citrusy twist or swap regular flour for a gluten-free alternative.
Looking for more artisan bread recipes? Check out this No-Knead Rosemary Garlic Bread for another flavorful homemade bread option.
What You’ll Need to Make the Best Cranberry Walnut Bread
Before diving into the baking process, gathering the right tools and ingredients will ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. Here’s everything you need to prepare this easy cranberry walnut bread at home.
Essential Kitchen Tools
To achieve the perfect texture and flavor, make sure you have:
- Mixing Bowls – One large and one medium to mix wet and dry ingredients separately.
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula – For combining the dough without over-mixing.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons – Accuracy is crucial when baking.
- Stand Mixer (Optional) – Speeds up the kneading process if you prefer not to do it by hand.
- Loaf Pan or Baking Sheet – A standard 9×5-inch loaf pan works best, but a baking sheet can also be used for a rustic shape.
- Parchment Paper – Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.
- Wire Cooling Rack – Helps the bread cool evenly, preventing a soggy bottom.
Key Ingredients for Cranberry Walnut Bread
This homemade cranberry walnut bread uses simple, wholesome ingredients:
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure and a light, airy crumb. Substitute with gluten-free flour if needed.
- Fresh or Dried Cranberries – Adds a burst of tartness. If using dried, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes to soften.
- Walnuts – Offers a satisfying crunch and nutty richness.
- Yeast or Baking Powder – Depending on whether you’re making a yeasted bread or a quick bread version.
- Warm Water or Milk – Activates the yeast and enhances moisture.
- Honey or Sugar – Lightly sweetens the bread and balances the tart cranberries.
- Salt – Enhances overall flavor.
- Butter or Olive Oil – Adds richness and prevents dryness.
- Orange Zest (Optional) – A citrusy twist for added depth of flavor.
How to Make the Best Cranberry Walnut Bread
Follow these simple steps to bake a moist, flavorful cranberry walnut bread with a perfect balance of sweetness and crunch.
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Soak the Cranberries – If using dried cranberries, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes to soften. Drain and set aside.
- Toast the Walnuts – Lightly toast walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes to enhance their nutty flavor.
- Measure All Ingredients – Accuracy is key in baking, so measure everything before starting.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and yeast (or baking powder for a quick bread version).
- In a separate bowl, combine warm water (or milk), honey (or sugar), and melted butter (or olive oil).
- Slowly incorporate the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, mixing until a rough, shaggy dough forms.
- Fold in the soaked cranberries, toasted walnuts, and optional orange zest for a burst of flavor.
Step 3: Knead and Rise (For Yeasted Bread)
- Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and allow it to rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
Step 4: Shape and Second Rise
- Punch down the dough to release excess air.
- Shape it into a loaf and place it in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan or on a parchment-lined baking sheet for a rustic shape.
- Cover the dough again and let it rise for an additional 30 to 45 minutes.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- If desired, brush the top with egg wash or melted butter for a golden crust.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
- Allow the bread to cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Pro Tip: Love cheesy, flavorful bread? Try this Ultimate Cheese Bread Recipe for a savory twist!
Ingredients for the Best Cranberry Walnut Bread
The secret to making the best cranberry walnut bread lies in using high-quality ingredients. Whether you’re making a quick bread or a yeasted loaf, these components ensure a delicious, bakery-style result.
Main Ingredients
To create a perfectly balanced, flavorful loaf, you’ll need:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour – Provides structure and a soft crumb. Use gluten-free flour if needed.
- 1 cup fresh or dried cranberries – Adds a tart, fruity burst. Chop fresh cranberries for even distribution.
- ¾ cup chopped walnuts – Provides a rich, nutty crunch. Toast them for enhanced flavor.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder – Helps the bread rise in quick bread versions.
- ½ teaspoon baking soda – Enhances texture when using acidic ingredients like buttermilk.
- ½ teaspoon salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavors.
- ½ cup sugar or honey – Adds subtle sweetness; honey also keeps the bread moist.
- ¾ cup milk or buttermilk – Buttermilk enhances softness and flavor; dairy-free alternatives work too.
- 2 large eggs – Binds ingredients and adds moisture.
- ¼ cup melted butter or olive oil – Provides richness and a tender crumb.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Boosts aroma and depth of flavor.
- Zest of 1 orange (optional) – Adds a bright citrus twist that pairs beautifully with cranberries.
Ingredient Substitutions & Variations
Want to experiment? Try these variations:
- Vegan Alternative – Use plant-based milk, a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flax + 3 tbsp water), and coconut oil.
- Gluten-Free – Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that contains xanthan gum.
- Sourdough Version – Use a sourdough starter instead of baking powder for added depth of flavor.
- Lower-Sugar Option – Reduce sugar or replace it with maple syrup for a subtle sweetness.
Looking for another irresistible bread recipe? Check out this Ultimate Cheese Bread Recipe—a cheesy, savory treat perfect for any occasion!
How to Make Cranberry Walnut Bread
Making homemade cranberry walnut bread is simple and rewarding. Follow these step-by-step instructions for a moist, flavorful loaf with a golden crust.
Step 1: Preheat & Prepare the Pan
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Zest of 1 orange (if using)
- Stir in the chopped walnuts and cranberries, coating them in the flour mixture to prevent sinking.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together:
- ½ cup sugar or honey
- ¾ cup milk or buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup melted butter or olive oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Mix until smooth and well combined.
Step 4: Combine Wet & Dry Ingredients
- Slowly add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring gently with a spatula until just combined.
- Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a dense loaf.
Step 5: Bake the Bread
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it out evenly.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- If the top browns too quickly, tent the loaf with foil during the last 15 minutes.
Step 6: Cool & Serve
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing to achieve the best texture.
Pro Tips for the Best Cranberry Walnut Bread
✅ Use fresh cranberries for a juicy burst of tartness.
✅ Toast the walnuts beforehand for an extra layer of nutty flavor.
✅ For a bakery-style finish, brush the top with melted butter after baking.
Looking for another cozy baking idea? Try this Easy Banana Nut Bread Recipe—a soft, moist classic with crunchy walnuts!
Storage & Serving Tips
How to Store Cranberry Walnut Bread
To keep your cranberry walnut bread fresh and flavorful, follow these storage tips:
- At Room Temperature: Wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- In the Refrigerator: If you need to store it longer, refrigerate it for up to 1 week, but be sure to warm it slightly before serving for the best texture.
- Freezing: Wrap individual slices or the whole loaf in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months when stored properly. Thaw at room temperature or warm in the oven before serving.
Variations of Cranberry Walnut Bread
1. Gluten-Free Cranberry Walnut Bread
For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Add 1 teaspoon of xanthan gum for better structure.
2. Vegan Cranberry Walnut Bread
Make it vegan by replacing:
- Milk with almond or oat milk
- Butter with coconut oil or vegan butter
- Honey with maple syrup or agave nectar
3. Cranberry Walnut Bread with Orange Zest
Adding fresh orange zest enhances the citrusy notes and pairs beautifully with the tart cranberries.
4. Cranberry Walnut Sourdough Bread
For a tangier flavor, use a sourdough starter instead of yeast. This version takes longer to rise but delivers a rich, complex taste.
If you love experimenting with bread recipes, check out this Ultimate Cheese Bread Recipe—a cheesy, flavorful delight!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What to make with cranberry walnut bread?
Cranberry walnut bread is versatile and can be used in many ways:
- Toast it with butter or cream cheese for breakfast.
- Use it for French toast—its nutty and fruity flavors make a delicious twist.
- Serve with cheese or charcuterie—the bread pairs well with soft cheeses and savory spreads.
- Turn it into bread pudding for a comforting dessert.
2. What are the ingredients in Costco cranberry walnut bread?
Costco’s cranberry walnut bread typically contains:
- Cranberries (fresh or dried)
- Walnuts
- Flour
- Sugar
- Eggs
- Yeast or baking powder
- Butter
- Salt
It’s also made with preservatives and artificial flavors, which is why homemade versions are always a healthier choice!
3. Should you chop cranberries before baking?
No, there’s no need to chop fresh cranberries before adding them to your cranberry walnut bread. However, if you’re using dried cranberries, chopping them into smaller pieces might help them distribute evenly throughout the bread.
4. How to eat cranberry walnut loaf?
Cranberry walnut loaf can be enjoyed in various ways:
- Plain or lightly toasted with butter.
- With a drizzle of honey for extra sweetness.
- As a sandwich—try pairing it with cream cheese and smoked turkey.
- For dessert—top it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.