Indulge in Artisan Cranberry Walnut Cinnamon Raisin Bread Delight
Ah, the scent of freshly baked bread wafting through the house—it’s one of those smells that wraps around you like a warm hug, isn’t it? I remember one chilly Sunday morning, I decided to treat myself to something special. As I combined the sweet-tart cranberries, chewy raisins, and earthy walnuts with a sprinkle of cinnamon, the mix of aromas filled my kitchen, and I felt like I was walking through an enchanting bakery. This Cranberry Raisin Walnut Cinnamon Artisan Bread recipe evolved from that very moment, capturing the essence of comfort and warmth I so often seek on a cold day. It’s perfect for cozy breakfasts or simply enjoying a slice with your afternoon tea. Let’s roll up our sleeves and bake some magic together!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple yet impressive, making it perfect for both beginners and seasoned bakers.
- Combines sweet, tangy, and nutty flavors for a delightful twist on traditional bread.
- Great for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a delicious breakfast treat.
- Can be customized with your favorite nuts or dried fruit.
- Smells incredible as it bakes, enticing everyone to the kitchen!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create this aromatic masterpiece:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
- 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup warm water (110°F/43°C)
- ¼ cup honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- ½ cup raisins
- ½ cup walnuts, chopped
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for greasing the bowl)
Tip: Using fresh cranberries during the season can elevate the flavor. They add a zesty punch that dried cranberries might miss!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Alright, let’s get baking! Don’t worry; this artisan bread is simpler than it looks.
- Activate the yeast: In a mixing bowl, combine the warm water, honey, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This means your yeast is happy and working!
- Mix the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the flour, salt, and ground cinnamon.
- Combine wet and dry: Once the yeast mixture is frothy, pour it into the bowl with the flour mixture. Stir until it begins to come together.
- Add the mix-ins: Gently fold in the cranberries, raisins, and chopped walnuts using a spatula, being careful not to overmix. You want to keep the dough light!
- Knead the dough: Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for about 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. Simply push, fold, and turn—it’s a great way to relieve stress!
- First rise: Grease a large bowl with olive oil, place your dough in it, and cover it with a damp cloth. Let it rise in a warm spot for about 1-2 hours or until it doubles in size.
- Shape the loaf: Once risen, punch down the dough gently and turn it onto a floured surface. Shape it into a round loaf, tucking the edges underneath.
- Second rise: Place the shaped dough on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover it loosely with a cloth and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes.
- Preheat the oven: About 15 minutes before baking, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake the bread: Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!
- Cool it down: Allow the bread to cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before slicing. Patience is key here!
Personal Tip: Avoid cutting the bread too early; otherwise, the inside will be gummy. It’s worth the wait, I promise!
Pro Tips & Variations
Now that you have the basics down, let’s talk about ways to make this bread your own!
- Spices: Add a pinch of nutmeg or pumpkin spice for an autumnal twist.
- Fruity Fusions: Swap out raisins for dried apricots or cherries for more fruity goodness.
- Nutty Additions: Try pecans or hazelnuts in place of walnuts for a different texture.
- Sweet Drizzle: Once cooled, drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk over the top for extra sweetness.
Feel free to get creative! This bread is as versatile as it is delicious.
Serving Suggestions
Now that your lovely loaf is baked and cooled, how will you enjoy it? Here are some cozy serving ideas:
- Stand-alone Star: Savor it warm, straight from the oven, with a pat of butter.
- Brunch Delight: Serve it alongside scrambled eggs and a fresh fruit salad for a cozy brunch.
- With Coffee or Tea: Enjoy a slice with your afternoon coffee or favorite herbal tea.
- French Toast Remix: Use leftover bread to make delicious French toast—both breakfast and dessert!
Each bite is an invitation to relax and savor the moment—perfect for a chilly day indoors!
Storage Tips
Want to keep that lovely bread fresh? Here’s how to store it:
- At Room Temperature: Wrap the bread in a clean kitchen towel and store it in a cool, dry place. It should stay fresh for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerator: I don’t recommend the fridge, as it can dry out the bread. But if you must, make sure to seal it tightly in an airtight container.
- Freezing: If you want to save some for later, slice the bread and place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw it in the fridge overnight when you’re ready to enjoy it again!
- Reheating: Warm slices in a toaster or oven to refresh them—nothing beats the smell of toasty bread!
FAQs
Can I make this bread in advance?
Absolutely! This bread is perfect for making ahead of time. You can bake it a day or two in advance and store it properly. It also freezes beautifully!
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for part of the all-purpose flour. Just keep in mind that it may change the texture slightly, making it denser. You can also try a 50/50 mix for a nice balance!
What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise?
If your dough doesn’t rise, it could be that the yeast was old or the water was too hot/cold. Make sure your water is warm (not hot!) and that the yeast is fresh. A cozy, draft-free spot also helps the dough rise beautifully.
Can I add other mix-ins?
Of course! This bread is all about personalization. Feel free to add chocolate chips, different nuts, or seeds. Just be sure not to add too many to keep the dough from rising properly.
How do I know when my bread is done baking?
Your bread is done when it’s golden brown on top and sounds hollow when you tap the bottom. You can also use a food thermometer to check if it’s around 190°F (88°C) when fully baked!
Conclusion
There you have it! A loaf of Cranberry Raisin Walnut Cinnamon Artisan Bread that fills the air with a delightful aroma and warms the heart. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and share in the joy of freshly baked bread! Please let me know how yours turns out—did you add any fun twists or toppings? I’d love to hear about your baking adventures! Happy baking and enjoy those cozy moments!
Print
Indulge in Artisan Cranberry Walnut Cinnamon Raisin Bread Delight
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf 1x
Description
Savor the flavors of cranberry walnut and cinnamon in this artisan bread Perfect for toasting or as a gourmet treat every day
Ingredients
Instructions
Notes
A delightful artisan bread featuring the sweet-tart flavors of cranberries, raisins, and walnuts, infused with cinnamon for a warm, cozy treat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 loaf
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 5g
- Fat: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
Keywords: Cranberry bread, Raisin walnut bread, Artisan bread recipe, Cinnamon bread