Mom’s Cranberry Walnut Bread

Mom’s Cranberry Walnut Bread is a delightful treat that combines the tartness of fresh cranberries with the richness of walnuts, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering, a cozy brunch, or just to enjoy with your morning coffee, this bread is sure to impress. Its moist texture and vibrant flavors make it a standout choice that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward ingredients and simple steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of cranberries and walnuts creates a unique flavor profile that’s both sweet and tangy.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it plain, or elevate your experience by serving it with cream cheese or butter.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a festive celebration or an everyday treat, this bread fits right in.
• Healthy Ingredients: Made with wholesome components like fresh fruit and nuts, it’s a guilt-free indulgence.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare Mom’s Cranberry Walnut Bread, having the right tools on hand makes all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Kitchen Tools

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

Why These Tools Matter

• Measuring spoons & cups: Ensure accurate measurements for perfect results every time.
• Sifter: Helps to aerate the flour, leading to a lighter bread texture.
• Food processor: Makes chopping cranberries quick and easy, saving you time.

Ingredients

For the Bread

• 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
• 1 Large Egg
• 1/2 Cup Orange Juice
• Grated Orange Zest
• 2 Tbsp Butter, melted
• 1 Cup Fresh Cranberries, cut in half or chopped in food processor
• 1/2 Cup Walnuts, chopped

Kitchen Essentials

• 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 your oven to 350° F.

Step 2: Prepare the Loaf Pan

Spray a loaf pan with non-cooking spray or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Sift together the dry ingredients including flour, baking soda, baking powder, sugar, and sea salt.
2. Add the halved cranberries into the dry mixture and stir until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl:
1. Beat the egg thoroughly.
2. Add in the orange juice and grated orange zest along with melted butter.
3. Mix these wet ingredients until they are well blended.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Slowly add the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients:
* Use a strong rubber spatula or wooden spoon to gently mix them together.
* Be careful not to overmix; you want a consistent batter but not too dense.
* Fold in the chopped walnuts once mixed.

Step 6: Bake the Bread

Scrape the batter into your prepared loaf pan:
* Even out the top with your spatula.
* Bake for about 50–55 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a knife into the center; it should come out clean.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Once baked:
1. Allow your cranberry walnut bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.
2. Cut into even slices once cooled completely. Enjoy as is or spread with cream cheese or butter!

How to Serve Mom’s Cranberry Walnut Bread

Serving Mom’s Cranberry Walnut Bread can elevate any meal or snack time. This delightful bread pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments that enhance its flavors.

Classic Cream Cheese Spread

• A smooth layer of cream cheese adds a rich, tangy contrast to the sweetness of the cranberries.

Citrus Butter

• Mix softened butter with orange zest for a refreshing spread that complements the citrus notes in the bread.

Fresh Fruit Salad

• A colorful mix of seasonal fruits balances the dense texture of the bread with light, juicy flavors.

Honey Drizzle

• Drizzling honey over warm slices brings an extra touch of sweetness and enhances the overall taste experience.

Yogurt Parfait

• Layer slices of cranberry walnut bread with yogurt and granola for a delicious breakfast or dessert option.

Tea or Coffee Pairing

• Serve with a hot cup of tea or coffee to create a cozy atmosphere perfect for enjoying each slice.

How to Perfect Mom’s Cranberry Walnut Bread

For those looking to master this recipe, a few tips can make all the difference in achieving perfection.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your cranberries are fresh for maximum flavor and texture.
• Measure Accurately: Use correct measuring techniques to maintain the right balance between wet and dry ingredients.
• Don’t Overmix: Gently combine wet and dry ingredients to avoid tough bread; overmixing can lead to dense results.
• Check Doneness: Insert a knife into the center; it should come out clean when fully baked.
• Cool Properly: Allow the bread to cool before slicing to prevent it from becoming gummy.
• Store Correctly: Keep leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.

Best Side Dishes for Mom’s Cranberry Walnut Bread

Pairing side dishes with Mom’s Cranberry Walnut Bread can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Spinach Salad
   A fresh spinach salad tossed with walnuts and a light vinaigrette adds a crunchy contrast.
2. Cheese Platter
   Offer a variety of cheeses like brie and cheddar alongside crackers for a savory complement.
3. Vegetable Soup
   A warm bowl of vegetable soup provides comfort that pairs beautifully with this sweet bread.
4. Chickpea Salad
   This protein-packed salad brings freshness and balances out the sweetness of the cranberry walnut bread.
5. Roasted Chicken Strips
   Tender roasted chicken strips add heartiness and can be served on top of slices or alongside them.
6. Sweet Potato Fries
   Crispy sweet potato fries offer a fun, sweet-savory combination that works well with this dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Mom’s Cranberry Walnut Bread can be a delightful experience, but there are some common pitfalls to steer clear of for the best results.

• Boldly measuring ingredients: Ensure you’re using accurate measurements, especially for flour and sugar. Use a kitchen scale for precision.
• Ignoring mixing techniques: Overmixing can lead to a dense bread. Mix until just combined for light and fluffy texture.
• Skipping ingredient prep: Failing to chop cranberries and walnuts appropriately can result in uneven distribution. Prep these ingredients before mixing.
• Not checking oven temperature: Oven temperatures can vary. Use an oven thermometer to ensure your bread bakes evenly and correctly.
• Neglecting cooling time: Cutting into the bread too soon can lead to crumbling. Allow it to cool completely before slicing.

Refrigerator Storage

• • Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
• • Container: Use an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap.

Freezing Mom’s Cranberry Walnut Bread

• • Duration: Freeze for up to 3 months.
• • Container: Wrap tightly in foil or freezer-safe plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag.

Reheating Mom’s Cranberry Walnut Bread

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 20-30 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

You can substitute unbleached flour with a gluten-free flour blend that is suitable for baking. Make sure it has xanthan gum included.

Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?

Yes, you can! Just soak them in warm water or orange juice for about 15 minutes before adding them to the mix.

What if I don’t have walnuts?

Feel free to replace walnuts with other nuts like pecans or almonds, or even omit them entirely for a nut-free version.

How can I customize Mom’s Cranberry Walnut Bread?

You can add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or mix in chocolate chips for a sweet twist!

Conclusion

Mom’s Cranberry Walnut Bread is not only delicious but also versatile! You can enjoy it as breakfast, a snack, or dessert. Feel free to customize the recipe with your favorite nuts or spices. Give it a try today!

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