### Tempting Cranberry Walnut Bread Recipe: A Delightful Treat for Any Occasion

#### IntroductionIf you're looking for a delicious and heartwarming recipe that combines the tartness of cranberries with the rich flavor of walnuts, look n……

#### Introduction

If you're looking for a delicious and heartwarming recipe that combines the tartness of cranberries with the rich flavor of walnuts, look no further than this **cranberry walnut bread recipe**. Perfect for breakfast, as a snack, or even as a gift, this bread is not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying. In this article, we will dive into the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and some tips to ensure your cranberry walnut bread turns out perfect every time.

#### Ingredients

To make the best **cranberry walnut bread recipe**, you will need the following ingredients:

- 2 cups all-purpose flour

- 1 cup granulated sugar

- 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 (or milk with a splash of vinegar)

- 1 cup fresh or dried cranberries

- 1 cup chopped walnuts

- Optional: a sprinkle of cinnamon for added flavor

#### Instructions

1. **Preheat Your Oven**: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. **Mix Dry Ingredients**: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk them together to ensure they are evenly distributed.

3. **Cream Butter and Sugar**: In another bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This will take about 3-5 minutes using an electric mixer.

4. **Add Eggs and Vanilla**: Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.

5. **Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures**: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense bread.

6. **Fold in Cranberries and Walnuts**: Gently fold in the cranberries and walnuts, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

7. **Pour into Loaf Pan**: Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.

8. **Bake**: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top browns too quickly, you can cover it with aluminum foil halfway through baking.

9. **Cool and Serve**: Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

#### Tips for the Perfect Cranberry Walnut Bread

- **Use Fresh Ingredients**: For the best flavor, use fresh cranberries when they are in season. If using dried cranberries, consider soaking them in warm water for a few minutes to plump them up.

- **Storage**: This bread can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.

- **Serving Suggestions**: Serve slices of this delightful bread warm with a pat of butter or cream cheese. It also pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee.

#### Conclusion

This **cranberry walnut bread recipe** is sure to become a favorite in your household. Its delightful combination of flavors and textures makes it a versatile addition to any meal or occasion. Whether you're baking for yourself or sharing with friends and family, this recipe will impress everyone who tries it. So, gather your ingredients and start baking this delicious bread today!