Every now and then, a recipe finds its way into my kitchen that transforms the ordinary into something extraordinary. That’s exactly how I felt when I first baked this Cranberry Nut Bread. The moment I pulled it from the oven, the sweet, citrusy aroma danced through my home, wrapping me in a warm embrace that felt like a hug from an old friend.
Inspired by the burst of tart cranberries and the delicious crunch of nuts, this bread is not just a treat; it’s a slice of comfort perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it as a cozy breakfast, a delightful afternoon snack, or a charming addition to your holiday table, it’s a versatile showstopper that impresses without a fuss.
With just a handful of straightforward ingredients, you’ll find it’s as easy to make as it is to savor. Let’s dive into this simple yet satisfying recipe that celebrates the flavors of fall and beyond!
Why You'll Love This Cranberry Nut Bread
- This Cranberry Nut Bread is incredibly easy to make, allowing you to whip up a delicious treat in just over an hour.
- The delightful combination of tart cranberries and crunchy nuts creates a flavor explosion that will have everyone raving.
- Its versatility means you can enjoy it for breakfast, as a snack, or even as a holiday gift, making it perfect for any occasion.
- Plus, the vibrant colors and enticing aroma make this bread visually appealing, ensuring it will be a crowd-pleaser at your next gathering.
Cranberry Nut Bread Ingredients
Get ready to create a stunning Cranberry Nut Bread with these simple ingredients!
For the Bread
- 2 cups flour – All-purpose flour provides a lovely texture and structure to the bread.
- 1 cup sugar – Sweetens the loaf while balancing the tartness of the cranberries.
- 1½ teaspoons baking powder – Essential for giving the bread its delightful rise.
- 1 teaspoon salt – Enhances the flavors in the bread.
- ½ teaspoon baking soda – Works with the acidity of the orange juice for extra lift.
- ¾ cup orange juice – Adds moisture and a hint of citrus flavor that brightens each bite.
- 2 tablespoons butter or shortening – Use butter for a richer flavor or shortening for a softer texture.
- 1 tablespoon orange zest – Infuses your bread with an aromatic burst of citrus.
- 1 egg, beaten – Binds the ingredients together, creating a tender crumb.
- 1½ cups coarsely chopped fresh or dried cranberries – They provide that refreshing tartness, perfect for this bread.
- ½ cup chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts) – Adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to each slice.
Enjoy the process of baking this Cranberry Nut Bread and indulge in its deliciousness!
How to Make Cranberry Nut Bread
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Preheat your oven to 350°F. This crucial first step ensures your bread bakes evenly and rises beautifully, giving it that perfect golden crust we all love.
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Prepare your loaf pan by greasing or lining it with parchment paper. This makes it easier to remove the bread once it's baked, preventing any sticky situations.
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Cream the softened butter or shortening with the sugar using a pastry blender until light and fluffy. This step incorporates air into the mixture, which helps create a tender texture.
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Combine the dry ingredients: Add in the flour, baking powder, salt, and baking soda. Mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This forms the base of your bread and ensures it rises properly.
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Incorporate the wet ingredients: Add orange zest, orange juice, and the beaten egg. Stir until everything is combined and smooth. The citrus plays wonderfully with the cranberries!
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Fold in the cranberries and nuts gently. This helps ensure they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter, adding pops of flavor and delightful crunch in every bite.
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Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Smooth the top with a spatula for an even bake. Bake for about 55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then carefully remove it and let it cool completely on a wire rack. Allowing it to cool enhances the flavors and makes it easier to slice.
Optional: Serve warm with a pat of butter for an extra treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Cranberry Nut Bread
Room Temperature: Keep the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This maintains its freshness and soft texture.
Fridge: If you prefer, you can store the Cranberry Nut Bread in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Wrap it well in plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.
Freezer: Freeze the bread for up to 3 months. Wrap slices in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge when ready to enjoy.
Reheating: To warm up, simply pop slices in the toaster or microwave for a few seconds. Enjoy the comforting flavors fresh out of the kitchen!
What to Serve with Cranberry Nut Bread?
Cranberry Nut Bread is not just a treat on its own; it invites a delightful array of accompaniments that enhance your dining experience!
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Creamy Brie Cheese: The rich, buttery flavors of Brie pair beautifully with the tartness of cranberries, creating a luscious bite.
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Lemon Curd: The tangy sweetness of lemon curd adds a zesty brightness that complements the citrus notes in the bread.
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Greek Yogurt: A dollop of creamy Greek yogurt provides a fresh, tangy contrast that elevates the bread, perfect for breakfast or a snack.
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Honey Butter: Spread a little honey butter on warm slices for a sweet, indulgent treat, enhancing the natural flavors of the bread.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A bowl of mixed berries or citrus fruits offers a refreshing balance, bringing out the fruity elements of the bread.
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Herbal Tea: Sipping on a warm cup of herbal tea boosts the cozy experience of enjoying your Cranberry Nut Bread, creating a sense of comfort.
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Spiced Apple Cider: Serve warm spiced apple cider alongside your bread for a seasonal touch that warms the soul.
These pairings create a perfect symphony of flavors and textures that will take your mealtime to the next level!
Make Ahead Options
These Cranberry Nut Bread are perfect for busy home cooks who want to streamline their meal prep! You can mix the dry ingredients (flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and baking soda) and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Additionally, you can chop the cranberries and nuts in advance, refrigerating them until you're ready to bake. This will save you precious time when you want to whip up the bread. When you're ready to enjoy your delicious Cranberry Nut Bread, simply blend the wet ingredients, combine with the prepped dry mix, and bake as directed. This way, you facilitate a delightful homemade experience with minimal fuss, just as fresh and comforting as if you'd made it on the spot!
Cranberry Nut Bread Variations
Customize your Cranberry Nut Bread and make it your own with these fun twists and substitutes!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a deliciously soft loaf everyone can enjoy.
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Nut-Free: Omit the nuts and replace them with an extra ½ cup of cranberries for a full tart flavor in every bite.
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Sweetener Swap: Use honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar in place of granulated sugar for a more natural touch.
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Citrus Burst: Add a bit of lemon or lime juice along with the orange juice for a refreshing citrus medley that dances on the palate.
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Dried Fruit Medley: Mix in a variety of dried fruits like apricots or raisins for a colorful and flavorful twist that adds depth and texture.
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Spice It Up: Stir in cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warm, cozy flavor that complements the cranberries perfectly.
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Chocolate Lover’s: Fold in a handful of dark chocolate chips alongside the cranberries for an indulgent treat that will make everyone swoon.
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Zesty Orange Glaze: Drizzle a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and orange juice on top once the bread has cooled for a sweet, citrusy finish that adds flair.
With these variations, you can mix and match to create the perfect Cranberry Nut Bread that fits any occasion!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Cranberry Nut Bread, ensure your butter or shortening is at room temperature for optimal creaming with sugar, as this will create a light texture.
- Avoid overmixing the batter once the wet and dry ingredients are combined to prevent a dense loaf.
- For a burst of flavor, consider using fresh cranberries; if using dried, soak them in orange juice for added moisture.
- Bake the bread until a toothpick comes out clean, checking a few minutes before the recommended baking time to prevent overbaking.
Cranberry Nut Bread Recipe FAQs
What type of cranberries should I use for Cranberry Nut Bread?
For the best flavor and texture, I recommend using fresh cranberries if they're in season. They provide a vibrant tartness that truly shines in the bread. If fresh cranberries aren't available, dried cranberries can substitute, but consider soaking them in orange juice for about 30 minutes to plump them up and add extra moisture.
How should I store leftover Cranberry Nut Bread?
Absolutely! To keep your bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to stretch its shelf life, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for up to a week.
Can I freeze Cranberry Nut Bread?
Certainly! To freeze this delightful bread, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can pull out a slice whenever you're craving a treat. The bread will maintain its quality for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
How do I know when my Cranberry Nut Bread is done baking?
Great question! The best way to check if your bread is baked to perfection is to use a toothpick. Insert it into the center of the loaf; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached, it’s time to take it out of the oven. Remember, the bread continues to cook slightly as it cools!
Can I adjust the sweetness of the Cranberry Nut Bread?
Absolutely! If you prefer less sweetness, you can reduce the sugar by about ¼ cup without significantly altering the texture. Keep in mind that this may enhance the tartness of the cranberries, so taste as you go. You might also experiment with using natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, but adjust the dry ingredients accordingly.
Is this recipe suitable for people with nut allergies?
Yes! If you or someone you're serving has a nut allergy, you can simply omit the nuts from the recipe. The bread will still turn out delicious and moist, thanks to the cranberries and orange juice. Just be sure to check that all your other ingredients are nut-free to keep the recipe safe for those with allergies.
Cranberry Nut Bread
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Prepare your loaf pan by greasing or lining it with parchment paper.
- Cream the softened butter or shortening with the sugar until light and fluffy.
- Combine the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, salt, and baking soda.
- Incorporate the wet ingredients: orange zest, orange juice, and beaten egg.
- Fold in the cranberries and nuts gently.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for about 55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then let it cool completely on a wire rack.
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