Mom’s Cranberry Walnut Bread

Mom’s Cranberry Walnut Bread is a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion, from cozy family gatherings to festive holiday celebrations. This bread stands out with its vibrant flavors of fresh cranberries and crunchy walnuts, making it not only delicious but also visually appealing. Whether enjoyed for breakfast, as a snack, or as a dessert, Mom’s Cranberry Walnut Bread is sure to become a favorite in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can whip this bread up in no time.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of tart cranberries and nutty walnuts creates a perfect balance that everyone will love.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Serve it at brunch, holidays, or as a thoughtful gift—it fits every setting!
• Healthier Option: Made with fresh ingredients and minimal additives, it’s a wholesome choice for your family.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite nuts or spices to make this recipe uniquely yours!

Tools and Preparation

To make Mom’s Cranberry Walnut Bread successfully, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools that help streamline the process.

Essential Kitchen Tools

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

Why These Tools Matter

• Measuring spoons: Precision in measuring ensures the perfect balance of flavors.
• Non-toxic bread loaf pan: A quality pan helps the bread bake evenly and release easily.
• Food processor: Efficiently chop cranberries and nuts to save time during prep.

Ingredients

For the Bread

• 2 Cups Unbleached Flour (I use Bob Mils)
• 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 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. This ensures even baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Loaf Pan

Spray a loaf pan with non-cooking spray or line it with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes for easy removal.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Sift together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, sugar, and sea salt.
2. Add the halved or chopped cranberries and stir until coated with flour.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl:
1. Beat the egg until fluffy.
2. Add orange juice and grated orange zest; mix well.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Slowly add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture:
1. Mix using a strong rubber spatula or wooden spoon until just combined—be careful not to overmix.
2. Gently fold in the chopped walnuts.

Step 6: Transfer Batter to Loaf Pan

Scrape the batter into the prepared loaf pan using the spatula. Even out the surface for uniform baking.

Step 7: Bake

Place in preheated oven and bake for 50-55 minutes:
1. Check for doneness by inserting a knife into the center of the bread; it should come out clean.

Step 8: Cool and Slice

Once baked:
1. Allow to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
2. Remove from pan and let cool completely on a wire rack before cutting into even slices.
3. Serve plain or with cream cheese or butter for added richness!

How to Serve Mom’s Cranberry Walnut Bread

Serving Mom’s Cranberry Walnut Bread can elevate any meal or occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast, brunch, or as a delightful snack, there are numerous ways to enhance its flavor and presentation.

Enjoy It Plain

• This bread is delicious on its own, showcasing the tartness of cranberries and the crunch of walnuts.

With Cream Cheese

• Spread a layer of cream cheese for a creamy contrast that complements the flavors beautifully.

Toasted with Butter

• Lightly toast slices of the bread and add a pat of butter for a warm, comforting treat.

As French Toast

• Dip slices in an egg mixture and griddle them for a sweet twist on classic French toast.

With Fresh Fruit

• Serve alongside fresh fruit like berries or orange segments for a refreshing balance to the richness of the bread.

For Holiday Gatherings

• Use this bread as part of a festive brunch spread or as an appetizer at holiday parties, garnished with seasonal fruits.

How to Perfect Mom’s Cranberry Walnut Bread

Achieving the perfect loaf of Mom’s Cranberry Walnut Bread takes practice and attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you master this recipe.

• Measure Precisely: Accurate measurements ensure the right texture and taste. Use measuring cups and spoons for best results.
• Don’t Overmix: Gently combine wet and dry ingredients to avoid dense bread. A few lumps in the batter are okay!
• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh cranberries and walnuts for optimal flavor. Check for quality before starting your bake.
• Cool Completely: Allow the bread to cool in the pan before slicing. This helps maintain its shape and texture.
• Experiment with Spices: Consider adding cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth and depth in flavors.
• Store Properly: Keep leftover bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Mom’s Cranberry Walnut Bread

Pairing side dishes with Mom’s Cranberry Walnut Bread can create a well-rounded meal experience. Here are some tasty options to consider.

1. Greek Yogurt Parfait
   A parfait made with Greek yogurt, honey, and fresh fruit offers a creamy and tangy contrast to the sweet bread.
2. Mixed Green Salad
   A light salad with mixed greens, nuts, and vinaigrette balances the richness of the bread perfectly.
3. Fruit Compote
   Serve alongside a warm fruit compote made from seasonal fruits for added sweetness and moisture.
4. Cheese Platter
   Pair slices of cheese like brie or goat cheese with your bread for a savory option that enhances flavors.
5. Smoothie Bowl
   A vibrant smoothie bowl topped with granola provides a refreshing contrast perfect for breakfast or brunch.
6. Roasted Nuts
   A bowl of roasted nuts offers additional crunch and pairs nicely with the walnut flavor in the bread.
7. Vegetable Soup
   A warm bowl of vegetable soup creates a cozy meal when served alongside slices of cranberry walnut bread.
8. Chia Seed Pudding
   Chia seed pudding adds creaminess and nutrition, making it an excellent addition to your meal spread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Mom’s Cranberry Walnut Bread, it’s easy to overlook a few details that can affect the final product. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Ignoring Ingredient Temperatures: Using cold ingredients can lead to uneven mixing and texture. Be sure to bring your egg and butter to room temperature before starting.
• Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can make the bread tough. Stir gently until just combined for a light and fluffy result.
• Not Checking for Doneness: Every oven is different, and baking times may vary. Always check doneness with a knife inserted in the center; it should come out clean.
• Skipping the Sifting Step: Not sifting dry ingredients can lead to clumps and uneven distribution of leavening agents. Always sift for a smoother batter.
• Neglecting to Cool Before Slicing: Cutting into the bread while it’s still warm can make it crumbly. Allow it to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Mom’s Cranberry Walnut Bread in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Mom’s Cranberry Walnut Bread

• Wrap slices individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.

Reheating Mom’s Cranberry Walnut Bread

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F, wrap bread in foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 15-20 seconds.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, cover with a lid, and toast each side for about 2-3 minutes until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Mom’s Cranberry Walnut Bread special?

Mom’s Cranberry Walnut Bread is special due to its perfect balance of tart cranberries and crunchy walnuts, creating a delightful flavor that complements any meal.

Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use dried cranberries if fresh ones are not available. Just make sure to chop them slightly for even distribution throughout the bread.

How do I customize Mom’s Cranberry Walnut Bread?

You can customize this recipe by adding chocolate chips, different nuts, or spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for added flavor.

What is the best way to serve Mom’s Cranberry Walnut Bread?

This bread is delicious on its own but pairs wonderfully with cream cheese or butter. Serve it as breakfast or as an afternoon snack!

Conclusion

Mom’s Cranberry Walnut Bread is not only delicious but also versatile. Its sweet and tart flavors make it perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. Feel free to customize it with your favorite add-ins or toppings! Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed.

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