Cranberry Nut Bread

Cranberry Nut Bread Recipe | Sweet, Tart & Easy Loaf

Baking a cranberry nut bread is a delightful way to enjoy a sweet yet tart loaf that fills your kitchen with a warm and inviting aroma. This Cranberry Nut Bread recipe is not only easy to follow but also results in a tasty treat perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert.

Why Make This Recipe

There are so many reasons to try this cranberry nut bread recipe! First and foremost, the combination of tart cranberries and crunchy nuts creates a fantastic balance of flavors and textures. The orange juice and zest add a refreshing citrus note that enhances the bread’s overall taste. This recipe is also incredibly versatile—whether you choose fresh or dried cranberries, pecans, or walnuts, you can personalize it to suit your preferences.

Moreover, this bread is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re having friends over for brunch, looking for a festive holiday treat, or just want to whip up something special for your family, this recipe fits the bill. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to explore the fall and winter flavors that are often associated with cranberries.

How to Make Cranberry Nut Bread

Making cranberry nut bread is straightforward and requires just a few basic steps. Here’s how to do it.

Ingredients

• 2 cups flour
• 1 cup sugar
• 1½ teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¾ cup orange juice
• 2 tablespoons butter or shortening
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1½ cups coarsely chopped fresh or dried cranberries
• ½ cup chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a standard loaf pan.
2. In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter or shortening with the sugar using a pastry blender until the mixture is light and fluffy.
3. Add flour, baking powder, salt, and baking soda to the creamed mixture. Mix until crumbly.
4. Stir in the orange zest, orange juice, and beaten egg until the batter is smooth.
5. Gently fold in the chopped cranberries and nuts, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly.
7. Bake for about 55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 15 minutes. Then, carefully remove it from the pan and let it cool completely on a wire rack.

Pro Tips for Success with Cranberry Nut Bread

1. Use fresh ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh cranberries when possible. If using dried cranberries, consider soaking them in warm water for a few minutes to plump them up.

2. Do not overmix: Once you add the wet ingredients to the dry ones, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf.

3. Check for doneness: Ovens can vary in temperature, so keep an eye on your bread in the last 10 minutes of baking. If the top starts to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil.

4. Rest the bread: For the best texture, allow the loaf to cool completely before slicing. This resting period ensures the flavors meld together beautifully.

5. Add a glaze: If you like a little sweetness on top, consider drizzling a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and orange juice once the bread has cooled.

6. Experiment with nuts: While pecans and walnuts are great, feel free to try other nuts like almonds or hazelnuts for a unique twist.

Flavor Variations for Cranberry Nut Bread

1. Adding spices: Consider adding cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for an aromatic touch that pairs well with cranberries.

2. Chocolate twist: Stir in some dark or white chocolate chips for a decadent version of this bread.

3. Nut butter: Swapping out the butter for almond or peanut butter can add an interesting nutty flavor to the bread.

4. Coconut: Mix in some shredded coconut for a tropical flair that balances the tartness of the cranberries beautifully.

5. Apple addition: Adding finely chopped apples to the batter can give the bread extra moisture and sweetness.

Serving Suggestions for Cranberry Nut Bread

This cranberry nut bread is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in several ways:

• Sliced for breakfast: Serve a warm slice with butter or cream cheese for a delicious breakfast treat.
• As a snack: Enjoy it on its own or paired with a hot drink like coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon snack.
• Gift it: Wrap the bread in a decorative cloth and give it as a thoughtful homemade gift during the holidays.
• Pair with a salad: Serve slices alongside fresh salads for a balanced meal that offers both nutrition and satisfaction.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Cranberry Nut Bread

• Room Temperature: If stored in an airtight container, the cranberry nut bread will last up to 3 days at room temperature.

• Refrigerator: For longer freshness, you can store the bread in the fridge for up to one week, but it may lose some of its moisture.

• Freezing: If you want to preserve the bread for an extended period, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

| Nutrient | Amount |
|—————|————|
| Calories | 180 |
| Protein | 3g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Fat | 6g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 150mg |

FAQs About Cranberry Nut Bread

Can I use frozen cranberries in this recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work well in this recipe. Just ensure you do not thaw them before mixing—they can be added straight from the freezer, which helps to prevent them from turning mushy in the batter.

What can I substitute for orange juice?

If you don’t have orange juice on hand, you can replace it with apple juice or even a light flavored broth for a unique taste. Just keep in mind that the result will slightly change the flavor profile of the bread.

Can this recipe be made vegan?

Yes, you can easily modify this recipe to be vegan. Substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and replace the butter with a plant-based margarine or coconut oil. Make sure to use non-dairy milk for the orange juice replacement.

How can I tell when the bread is finished baking?

Use a toothpick or a skewer to test for doneness. Insert it into the center of the bread—if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached, your bread is ready. If the toothpick comes out wet with batter, it needs a few more minutes in the oven.

Can I add other fruits to this bread?

Certainly! Feel free to experiment with other fruits such as blueberries, raspberries, or even diced pears. Just be mindful of the moisture content from the added fruits, as it can affect the bread’s consistency.

Final Thoughts

Baking cranberry nut bread can be a joyous activity that brings family and friends together over delicious food. With its delightful sweet and tart flavors, easy preparation, and potential for creativity, this recipe is a perfect addition to your baking repertoire. Whether you enjoy it fresh out of the oven or save it for later, this cranberry nut bread is sure to become a cherished family favorite. So, gather your ingredients and start baking this delightful loaf today!

Cranberry Nut Bread

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• Total Time: 70 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A delightful sweet yet tart loaf filled with cranberries and nuts, perfect for breakfast or as a snack.

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Ingredients

• 2 cups flour
• 1 cup sugar
• 1½ teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¾ cup orange juice
• 2 tablespoons butter or shortening
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1½ cups coarsely chopped fresh or dried cranberries
• ½ cup chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts)

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a standard loaf pan.
2. Cream the softened butter or shortening with the sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add flour, baking powder, salt, and baking soda to the creamed mixture. Mix until crumbly.
4. Stir in the orange zest, orange juice, and beaten egg until the batter is smooth.
5. Fold in the chopped cranberries and nuts until evenly distributed.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly.
7. Bake for about 55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then remove and let it cool completely on a wire rack.

Notes

For best flavor, use fresh cranberries. If using dried, consider soaking them in warm water. Do not overmix the batter, and monitor baking time as ovens vary.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 55 minutes
• Category: Bread
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American