Introduction
Cranberry Walnut Bread is a delicious and nutritious treat that can be enjoyed for breakfast or as a snack. The combination of tart cranberries and crunchy walnuts creates a delightful flavor and texture that will leave you wanting more. This bread batter is easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Whether you are a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients
To make Cranberry Walnut Bread batter, you will need the following ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
Steps
Follow these steps to prepare Cranberry Walnut Bread batter:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a loaf pan.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
Step 5: Add Cranberries and Walnuts
Gently fold in the cranberries and chopped walnuts into the batter.
Step 6: Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Allow the Cranberry Walnut Bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve.
Variations
For a twist on the classic Cranberry Walnut Bread, you can try these variations:
Orange Cranberry Walnut Bread
Add 1 tablespoon of orange zest to the batter for a burst of citrus flavor.
Almond Cranberry Walnut Bread
Replace the walnuts with chopped almonds for a different nutty flavor.
Chocolate Chip Cranberry Walnut Bread
Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the batter for a decadent treat.
Tips
Here are some tips to help you make the perfect Cranberry Walnut Bread:
– If using frozen cranberries, do not thaw them before adding to the batter.
– Be gentle when folding in the cranberries and walnuts to avoid crushing them.
– Test the bread for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, the bread is ready.
– Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing to prevent it from crumbling.
Conclusion
Cranberry Walnut Bread batter is a versatile and delicious base for a delightful loaf of bread. With the perfect combination of tart cranberries and crunchy walnuts, this bread is sure to satisfy your taste buds. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast or as a snack, this recipe is a winner. Try out different variations and experiment with flavors to make it your own. Happy baking!
FAQs
Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh or frozen cranberries?
Yes, you can use dried cranberries as a substitute for fresh or frozen cranberries. However, keep in mind that dried cranberries may have a sweeter and chewier texture compared to fresh cranberries.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. However, the texture and flavor of the bread may be slightly different.
How should I store Cranberry Walnut Bread?
Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Alternatively, you can freeze the bread for up to 3 months.
