Holiday Cranberry Walnut Bread

Published: September 15, 2025

by william castellanos

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Holiday Cranberry Walnut Bread is easy to make, ensuring minimal fuss in your kitchen
Its flavor profile combines sweet and tart notes that tantalize your taste buds
The beautiful red and green hues provide visual appeal that impresses every guest
Versatile enough to be enjoyed fresh or toasted with butter, it’s perfect for breakfast or dessert

I once made this recipe for a holiday potluck, and my friends couldn’t get enough! Their smiles said it all as they devoured slice after slice. chewy snickerdoodle cookie bars.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

All-Purpose Flour: The base of our bread; choose unbleached flour for a richer flavor.
Baking Powder: This will help the bread rise beautifully; make sure it’s fresh!
Sugar: Adds sweetness; you can adjust based on your taste preference.
Salt: A pinch enhances all the flavors in this delightful bread.
Eggs: Use large eggs for the best texture and richness.
Milk: Whole milk gives the bread moisture; feel free to substitute almond milk if desired.
Dried Cranberries: These little jewels add sweetness and a lovely tartness; look for plump ones.
Walnuts: Toasted lightly beforehand to enhance their flavor before adding them to the batter.
Cinnamon and Nutmeg: These spices bring warmth and comfort to every bite; fresh spices are always best.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your loaf pan by greasing it lightly with butter or nonstick spray. This ensures an effortless release later on.

Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, sugar, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined. The aromatic spices should fill your kitchen with warmth.

Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, beat the eggs before adding milk. Mix until smooth and creamy—this will create a rich batter that keeps everything moist!

Add Cranberries and Walnuts: Gently fold in dried cranberries and walnuts into the wet mixture. Be careful not to overmix; you want those cranberries to stay intact!

Combine Mixtures: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients bowl. Stir just until combined—remember that lumps are okay! This preserves a tender texture for your bread.

Bake Away: Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Bake for 55-65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let it cool slightly before removing from the pan.

Enjoy this delicious Holiday Cranberry Walnut Bread warm or at room temperature! The blend of textures—from soft crumb to crunchy walnuts—will have everyone coming back for seconds (or thirds!).

You Must Know

Holiday Cranberry Walnut Bread is not just delicious; it fills your kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma
This bread pairs perfectly with morning coffee or as a festive treat during family gatherings
Its crunchy walnuts and sweet cranberries create a delightful texture that everyone loves

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by mixing the dry ingredients thoroughly to ensure even distribution of flavors. Then, combine wet ingredients and fold them into the dry mix gently, avoiding over-mixing which can lead to dense bread.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap walnuts for pecans or use dried cherries instead of cranberries. A sprinkle of orange zest adds a zesty twist that brightens up the flavor beautifully.

Storing & Reheating

Store your Holiday Cranberry Walnut Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze for up to three months, reheating slices in the toaster.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To achieve the best texture, make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting
Use fresh cranberries if possible, as they provide vibrant flavor
Avoid over-kneading the dough; treat it gently to keep it light and fluffy

I remember the first time I baked this bread; my house smelled like a cozy bakery, and my friends couldn’t get enough of it. It’s now a holiday staple at every gathering!

FAQ

Can I use frozen cranberries in Holiday Cranberry Walnut Bread?

Yes, you can use frozen cranberries; just do not thaw them before mixing.

How do I know when my bread is done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when fully baked.

Can I make this bread gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute regular flour with a 1: 1 gluten-free flour blend for best results.

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