The smell of freshly baked bread wafting through your home on a chilly holiday morning is an experience unlike any other. This Easy Cranberry Nut Bread Recipe will not only fill your kitchen with the comforting aroma of orange zest and cranberries but also bring a festive touch to your breakfast table. Ready to dive in? Let’s make your holidays even sweeter!

Why This Recipe Is Perfect for the Holidays

The combination of tangy cranberries, nutty walnuts, and the citrusy zing of orange zest makes this bread a standout choice for the season. It’s quick to prepare, uses simple ingredients, and delivers flavors that capture the essence of holiday cheer. Whether you’re hosting guests or enjoying a quiet morning with your family, this bread is a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Below is a breakdown of the ingredients for this recipe. These are common items you might already have in your pantry and fridge:

Ingredient	Quantity
All-purpose flour	2 cups
White sugar	¾ cup
Baking powder	1 ½ teaspoons
Salt	¾ teaspoon
Baking soda	½ teaspoon
Chopped cranberries	1 cup
Chopped walnuts	½ cup
Orange juice	¾ cup
Large egg	1
Vegetable oil	2 tablespoons
Orange zest	1 tablespoon

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Gather Your Tools and Preheat the Oven

Before you start, make sure you have the following tools ready:

• Mixing bowls (large and medium)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk and spoon
• 9×5-inch loaf pan
• Toothpick

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your loaf pan. This ensures an even bake and prevents sticking.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine:

• 2 cups of flour
• ¾ cup of sugar
• 1 ½ teaspoons of baking powder
• ¾ teaspoon of salt
• ½ teaspoon of baking soda

Once mixed, fold in 1 cup of chopped cranberries and ½ cup of chopped walnuts. Stir until the cranberries and nuts are evenly coated with the dry mixture.

3. Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together:

• ¾ cup of orange juice
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon of orange zest

Ensure everything is well combined.

4. Create the Batter

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Stir gently until just blended. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the bread dense.

5. Bake to Perfection

Spoon the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

6. Cool and Serve

Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Allow it to cool completely before slicing. Serve plain, with butter, or even cream cheese for an extra indulgence.

Tips for Success

Choose Fresh Ingredients

• Use fresh cranberries for the best tart flavor. If using frozen, do not thaw them to avoid excess moisture.
• Freshly grated orange zest provides a vibrant citrus flavor that’s hard to beat.

Avoid Overmixing

Mixing too much can lead to tough bread. Stir only until the ingredients are combined.

Test for Doneness

Oven temperatures vary, so check your bread at the 45-minute mark. Insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, the bread is ready.

Why Cranberries and Walnuts?

Cranberries and walnuts aren’t just festive; they’re also packed with nutrients:

• Cranberries: Rich in antioxidants and vitamin C.
• Walnuts: A great source of healthy fats, protein, and omega-3s.

Together, they provide a balance of tartness, nuttiness, and crunch that’s irresistible.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount Per Serving (1 slice)
Calories	180
Total Fat	6g
Saturated Fat	1g
Cholesterol	15mg
Sodium	150mg
Total Carbohydrates	28g
Sugars	12g
Protein	3g

Creative Variations

1. Add Chocolate Chips

For a sweeter twist, mix in ¼ cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips.

2. Substitute Nuts

If walnuts aren’t your favorite, try pecans or almonds.

3. Make Mini Loaves

Divide the batter into smaller loaf pans for gifting. Adjust the baking time to 30-35 minutes.

FAQ

1. Can I freeze cranberry nut bread?

Yes! Wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

2. Can I use dried cranberries?

Absolutely. Soak them in warm water or orange juice for 10 minutes to soften before adding them to the batter.

3. How do I store leftovers?

Keep the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to a week.

4. Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes. Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking mix. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

5. What can I use instead of orange juice?

Apple juice or cranberry juice works as a great substitute, though the flavor will differ slightly.

6. Can I skip the orange zest?

While the bread will still be delicious, the zest enhances the citrusy flavor. You can skip it if necessary.

A Holiday Tradition Worth Starting

With its perfect balance of tart, nutty, and sweet flavors, this Easy Cranberry Nut Bread Recipe is destined to become a holiday favorite. Whether you enjoy it with your morning coffee or share it as a thoughtful gift, the memories you create will last a lifetime.

Ready to bake? Gather your ingredients and get started today. Your holiday mornings just got a whole lot cozier!

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