If you love cozy, comforting baked goods that fill your kitchen with delightful aromas, then you are going to fall in love with this Maple Walnut Bread Recipe. This moist quick bread is a beautiful balance of rich maple syrup sweetness and satisfying walnut crunch, making every slice an absolute treat. Whether you’re looking for a soul-warming breakfast, a lovely brunch addition, or a perfect snack to pair with your afternoon coffee, this loaf delivers a deliciously inviting experience that’s as simple to make as it is wonderful to eat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white marbled surface with several clear glass containers holding different ingredients arranged neatly. In the back, there is a cup with black coffee, and a large glass bowl filled with light beige flour. In front, there are two bananas laying to the left. Clear glass bowls contain white granulated sugar, a dark brown liquid, a reddish liquid, small amounts of spices in two smaller bowls, and a medium bowl filled with chopped walnuts. The overall setup clearly shows each ingredient with simple colors and textures, all on a white marbled background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to success, and for this Maple Walnut Bread Recipe, simplicity reigns supreme. Each ingredient plays a special role, from adding flavor and moisture to creating just the right texture and crumb.

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of this bread, providing structure and the perfect crumb.
1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the bread rise for a light and tender texture.
1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Works with the acidic maple syrup to give lift and softness.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional): Adds a subtle warmth and aroma that complements the maple and walnuts beautifully.
1/2 cup pure maple syrup: The star sweetener, providing a deep, natural sweetness and moistness you can’t get from regular sugar.
1/3 cup vegetable oil or melted butter: Adds richness and keeps the bread irresistibly moist.
2 large eggs: Bind everything together and add fluffiness to the loaf.
1/2 cup milk: Contributes tenderness and helps build the batter to just the right consistency.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the maple flavor and adds a lovely aromatic touch.
3/4 cup chopped walnuts: Brings crunch and a slightly bitter contrast to the sweet maple syrup.

How to Make Maple Walnut Bread Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a standard loaf pan. Preparing your pan now saves time later and ensures your bread comes out perfectly without sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon if you’re using it. This step helps distribute all the leavening agents evenly.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, vigorously whisk the pure maple syrup, vegetable oil or melted butter, eggs, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined. The combination of these ingredients creates the moist, flavorful base of the bread.

Step 4: Stir Dry Into Wet

Gently add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients and stir everything together just until combined. Do not overmix here – a few lumps are totally fine and will result in a more tender loaf.

Step 5: Fold in Walnuts

Carefully fold the chopped walnuts into your batter. For an extra flavor boost, lightly toast the walnuts beforehand to release their oils and deepen their nutty flavor.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake in your preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The bread should be golden brown and have a wonderful aroma filling your kitchen.

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy

Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This resting time helps the crumb set beautifully, making slicing easier and neater.

How to Serve Maple Walnut Bread Recipe

Maple Walnut Bread Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

While this bread is delightful on its own, a thin spread of quality butter or a drizzle of maple syrup makes it even more heavenly. For a playful touch, sprinkle a few toasted walnuts on top after buttering your slice.

Side Dishes

Pair the bread with a cup of hot coffee or tea for breakfast or brunch. It also complements fresh fruit, yogurt, or even a mild cheese like cream cheese for a broader flavor experience when serving guests.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your Maple Walnut Bread Recipe into a centerpiece by cutting it into thick slices and making mini open-faced sandwiches with cream cheese and a drizzle of honey or apple slices. You can also toast leftover slices and spread a bit of nut butter for a cozy snack.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap your leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or foil to keep them moist. Store at room temperature for up to three days, and you’ll still have plenty of delicious bread ready to enjoy for snacking or light meals.

Freezing

If you want to save the bread for longer, slice it first and place parchment paper between each slice to prevent sticking. Freeze the slices in a sealed airtight bag or container for up to three months. This way, you can pull out just the amount you need whenever cravings strike.

Reheating

For best results, reheat slices in a toaster or toaster oven for a few minutes until warmed through and slightly crisp on the outside. You can also microwave slices wrapped in a damp paper towel for about 15-20 seconds to revive softness.

FAQs

Can I substitute the maple syrup with honey or another sweetener?

While honey or other sweeteners will work, pure maple syrup gives this bread its signature flavor and moisture. Using alternatives may change the taste and texture, but feel free to experiment according to your preference.

Are walnuts necessary, or can they be replaced?

Walnuts add crunch and a slight bitterness that balances the sweet maple syrup, but you can swap them with pecans or almonds if desired. Just make sure to toast them lightly for the best flavor.

Is this bread gluten-free?

This recipe calls for all-purpose flour, so it is not gluten-free. However, you could try substituting a gluten-free baking blend designed for quick breads, though results may vary.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

To make it vegan, you can replace the eggs with flax or chia egg substitutes and use a plant-based milk and oil. Keep in mind that baking times or texture may slightly change.

What’s the best way to ensure the bread stays moist?

Using pure maple syrup, oil or melted butter, and not overmixing the batter are key for a moist loaf. Also, wrapping the bread tightly for storage prevents it from drying out.

Final Thoughts

This Maple Walnut Bread Recipe is truly a delightful gem in any baker’s collection. Its tender crumb, rich sweetness, and nutty crunch make it an irresistible treat for any time of day. I can’t wait for you to try it and enjoy the warm, comforting vibes it brings to your kitchen and your table.