Mom’s Cranberry Walnut Bread: 5 Steps to Comforting Bliss

Every time I make Mom’s Cranberry Walnut Bread, I’m transported back to my childhood kitchen, where the aroma of baking bread filled the air, mingling with the sweet and tart scent of fresh cranberries.

This bread is more than just a recipe; it’s a warm hug from my past, reminding me of cozy family gatherings and holiday mornings spent around the table.

I can still hear my mom’s laughter as we’d eagerly wait for the bread to cool, our patience tested by the mouthwatering smell wafting through the house.

Trust me, when you slice into this loaf, you’ll find the delightful crunch of walnuts paired with the juicy bursts of cranberries—it’s a match made in heaven! Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, making it perfect for any occasion, from holiday feasts to simple weekday breakfasts.

So, roll up your sleeves and let’s get baking; you’re going to love the nostalgia and deliciousness of Mom’s Cranberry Walnut Bread!

Looking for another nutty bread? Try this Oatmeal Carrot Cake — moist, spiced, and topped with luscious cream cheese frosting!

Ingredients List

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
• 1 cup fresh or dried cranberries
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup buttermilk

How to Prepare Mom’s Cranberry Walnut Bread

Let’s dive into the delightful process of making Mom’s Cranberry Walnut Bread! I promise it’s easier than you might think, and every step is filled with that cozy, homey goodness. So, grab your apron and let’s get started!

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven: First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is a crucial step to ensure that your bread bakes evenly and comes out perfectly golden.
2. Mix the dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of sugar, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Whisk these together until they’re well-blended. This helps to evenly distribute the leavening agents and ensures a fluffy bread.
3. Incorporate the butter: Now, add in 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter. I like to use my hands or a pastry cutter to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This step is key for that rich, buttery flavor!
4. Prepare the wet mixture: In another bowl, whisk together 2 large eggs, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1/2 cup of buttermilk. Make sure your eggs are at room temperature for the best results; it really helps everything blend smoothly!
5. Combine the mixtures: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, and gently mix until just combined. Don’t overmix! A few lumps are okay; overmixing can lead to dense bread, and we want it fluffy!
6. Add the cranberries and walnuts: Now, fold in 1 cup of cranberries and 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts. I love this part—the colorful cranberries and crunchy walnuts create such a beautiful mix. Make sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter.
7. Prepare the loaf pan: Grease a loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray. This will help your bread slide right out after baking. Pour your batter into the pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
8. Bake it up: Pop the pan into your preheated oven and bake for about 60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The aroma will fill your kitchen—trust me, it’s heavenly!
9. Cool and slice: Once baked, let your bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is essential, as it helps the bread set up nicely. Once cooled, slice it up and enjoy!

And there you have it! Simple yet oh-so-delicious Mom’s Cranberry Walnut Bread, ready for you to savor. I can’t wait for you to experience the joy of baking—and the even greater joy of eating it!

Craving a fruity quick bread? Try these Peach Bars — soft, sweet, and bursting with fruit flavor!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: You can whip up this delicious bread in just about 15 minutes of prep time!
• Perfect for holidays: Its festive flavors make it an ideal treat for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any family gathering.
• Great for gifting: Wrap it up in a pretty loaf bag, and it’s a heartfelt gift for friends or neighbors.
• Deliciously versatile: Enjoy it as a breakfast treat, a snack, or even dessert—there’s no wrong time to indulge!
• Easy to customize: Feel free to swap walnuts for pecans or add your favorite spices for a unique twist!

Trust me, once you try Mom’s Cranberry Walnut Bread, you’ll find yourself reaching for it again and again. Its delightful balance of tart cranberries and crunchy walnuts will leave you craving more!

Tips for Success

To make sure your Mom’s Cranberry Walnut Bread turns out perfectly every time, here are some of my favorite tips! First, always use high-quality ingredients—fresh cranberries and real butter make a noticeable difference in flavor. If you’re using dried cranberries, soak them in warm water for about 10 minutes to plump them up; this way, they’ll add that juicy burst you want in every bite.

When mixing, remember to fold the ingredients gently; overmixing can lead to tough bread. Trust me, a few lumps are perfectly okay! And don’t skip the cooling time after baking; letting it cool in the pan for a few minutes helps it set and makes slicing so much easier. Finally, if you want to enhance the flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm, cozy twist. Happy baking!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutritional values for a slice of Mom’s Cranberry Walnut Bread. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients you use, but this gives you a good idea:

• Calories: 180
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 40mg
• Sodium: 150mg
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Sugar: 10g

With these delightful flavors and a balanced profile, you can enjoy a slice (or two!) without any guilt. Happy indulging!

FAQ Section

Common Questions About Mom’s Cranberry Walnut Bread

Can I use frozen cranberries?
Absolutely! If you have frozen cranberries on hand, they’ll work just fine. Just toss them in straight from the freezer, no need to thaw them first. They might make your batter a little wetter, but that’s okay; it’ll still bake up beautifully!

How do I store leftovers?
To keep your Mom’s Cranberry Walnut Bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want it to last longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and pop it in the freezer. It’ll stay delicious for up to three months!

Can I substitute walnuts with another nut?
Of course! If you’re not a fan of walnuts, feel free to use pecans or even almonds. Each nut brings its own unique flavor, so choose what you love!

What’s the best way to reheat the bread?
If you’d like to enjoy your bread warm, simply slice a piece and pop it in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. You can also warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes for that freshly-baked taste!

Can I make this bread ahead of time?
Definitely! Mom’s Cranberry Walnut Bread can be made a day or two in advance. Just store it properly, and it’ll taste just as delightful when you’re ready to enjoy it!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

To keep your Mom’s Cranberry Walnut Bread fresh and delicious, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to extend its life, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the freezer. It’ll stay scrumptious for up to three months! When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator.

For reheating, slice off a piece and pop it in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds—just enough to warm it through. If you prefer that freshly-baked taste, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm the slices for a few minutes. This way, you’ll savor that cozy aroma all over again!

Need a festive, nutty cookie? Try these Pistachio Wedding Cookies — delicate, crunchy, and perfect with tea!

Serving Suggestions

Mom’s Cranberry Walnut Bread is delightful on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments! For a cozy breakfast, enjoy a slice with a hot cup of coffee or your favorite herbal tea. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, spread a bit of cream cheese or butter on top—heavenly! For a sweet twist, top it with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup. And let’s not forget about serving it alongside a fruit platter for brunch; the tartness of the cranberries complements fresh fruits perfectly. Enjoy these combinations, and watch how they elevate your bread experience!

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