Name: Spiced Cranberry Walnut Bread Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg; 3/4 cup sugar; 1 cup fresh or dried cranberries; 3/4 cup chopped walnuts; 1 cup milk; 2 large eggs; 1/3 cup vegetable oil

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 31 reviews

There is something truly heartwarming about a loaf that combines the tart burst of cranberries with the satisfying crunch of walnuts and a cozy blend of spices. This Spiced Cranberry Walnut Bread Recipe is the perfect treat for those moments when you want a simple yet flavorful bread that feels like a hug in every bite. Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering or a quiet weekend treat, this bread brings together sweet, tangy, and warmly spiced elements in a way that never fails to delight.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Six small glass and white containers with different ingredients are arranged on a white marbled surface. On the top left, there is a clear glass bowl filled with light beige flour. To the right of it, a white square bowl contains a mix of dark red dried berries and golden brown walnut halves. Next to that, a small clear glass bowl holds light brown granules. Below the bowl of flour, a clear glass bowl is filled with white granulated sugar. In the center bottom, there is a small metal bowl with a dark amber liquid inside. To its right, another clear glass bowl contains a translucent liquid, likely water. All containers are neatly spaced in a grid-like pattern. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

For this Spiced Cranberry Walnut Bread Recipe, the ingredients are straightforward, wholesome, and each plays a vital role in creating the perfect texture and flavor. From the fresh cranberries adding their signature tartness to the warming aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg, every element contributes something special to the loaf.

2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure and holds everything together beautifully.
1 tablespoon baking powder: The leavening agent that ensures your bread rises just right and stays tender.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors, balancing the sweetness and spices.
1 teaspoon cinnamon: Adds warmth and depth with its classic, comforting spice.
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg: Gives a subtle, nutty undertone that complements the cinnamon perfectly.
3/4 cup sugar: Sweetens the bread without overpowering the natural tartness of the cranberries.
1 cup fresh or dried cranberries: The star ingredient that gives the bread its festive pop of flavor and color.
3/4 cup chopped walnuts: Adds a lovely crunch and a nutty contrast to the soft crumb.
1 cup milk: Keeps the bread moist and soft with every bite.
2 large eggs: Bind everything together and contribute richness.
1/3 cup vegetable oil: Adds moisture and helps the bread stay fresh longer.

How to Make Spiced Cranberry Walnut Bread Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a loaf pan. This ensures your bread will bake evenly and come out cleanly once it’s done.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and sugar. This step is crucial to evenly distribute your spices and raising agents throughout the bread.

Step 3: Toss Cranberries and Walnuts

To prevent the cranberries and walnuts from sinking to the bottom of the loaf, toss them with a tablespoon of flour. This simple trick keeps those flavorful bits perfectly distributed.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, and vegetable oil until smooth. These wet ingredients infuse moisture and richness into the bread batter.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir just until combined. Then gently fold in the cranberries and walnuts, being careful not to overmix to keep the bread light and tender.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50 to 55 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the bread feels firm to the touch.

How to Serve Spiced Cranberry Walnut Bread Recipe

Spiced Cranberry Walnut Bread Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

A light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey can add just the right touch of sweetness and a festive finish. For extra charm, sprinkle a few whole cranberries or walnut pieces on top before serving.

Side Dishes

This bread pairs beautifully with a cozy cup of chai or a creamy latte for breakfast or afternoon tea. It also complements a mild cheese spread or a dollop of cream cheese if you want a savory contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice the bread thick and toast it lightly for an extra crunch, then top with butter or nut butter for added indulgence. You can also serve it alongside a fresh fruit salad, letting the tartness of the berries echo the cranberries in the loaf.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled completely, wrap the Spiced Cranberry Walnut Bread Recipe tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh on your counter for up to three days.

Freezing

This bread freezes exceptionally well. Slice it first, then separate the slices with parchment paper and place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready, you can thaw a slice or two for a quick, delicious treat.

Reheating

Reheat slices in a toaster or a warm oven for just a few minutes. This refreshes the bread’s soft texture and awakens the lovely aromas of cinnamon and nutmeg.

FAQs

Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Both fresh and dried cranberries work wonderfully in this Spiced Cranberry Walnut Bread Recipe, though dried might be a bit sweeter and chewier.

Is it possible to substitute walnuts with another nut?

Yes, feel free to swap walnuts for pecans or almonds if you prefer. Just chop them roughly so they mix well throughout the batter.

Can I add orange zest to this recipe?

Definitely! Adding a tablespoon of orange zest enhances the bread with a bright, citrusy note that pairs beautifully with cranberries and spices.

What if I don’t have vegetable oil?

You can substitute vegetable oil with melted butter or a neutral oil like canola or sunflower. Each will add its own subtle flavor and keep the bread moist.

How long will the bread stay fresh without refrigeration?

Wrapped properly, this bread stays fresh at room temperature for around three days. After that, refrigerating can help extend its life by a few more days.

Final Thoughts

This Spiced Cranberry Walnut Bread Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser and a joy to make. It brings together simple, honest ingredients to bake a loaf that’s bursting with both flavor and texture. I can’t recommend it enough for cozy mornings or as a thoughtful gift from your kitchen. Give it a try—you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again.