What To Know
- Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Gather your loved ones, embrace the warmth of the oven, and embark on a culinary journey that will leave a lasting impression on your taste buds and your heart.
Indulge in the delectable symphony of flavors with our exquisitely crafted cranberry walnut bread recipe with yeast. This festive treat is a harmonious blend of tangy cranberries, crunchy walnuts, and the ethereal lightness of yeast, promising a culinary experience that will tantalize your taste buds and warm your soul.
Ingredients for a Perfect Loaf
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (105-115°F)
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon honey or sugar
- 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter, for greasing the loaf pan
Instructions for Culinary Excellence
1. Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, whisk together the warm water, yeast, and honey. Let it stand for 5-10 minutes, or until the yeast is foamy and active.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
3. Mix the Dough: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Incorporate Cranberries and Walnuts: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Add the dried cranberries and chopped walnuts to the dough and mix until evenly distributed.
6. Second Rise: Form the dough into a loaf and place it in a greased 9×5 inch loaf pan. Cover it with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for 30-45 minutes, or until almost doubled in size.
7. Bake to Perfection: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the bread for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
8. Cool and Enjoy: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
A Feast for the Senses
With each bite, this cranberry walnut bread recipe with yeast unleashes a symphony of flavors that will delight your palate. The tangy cranberries burst with a burst of sweetness, while the crunchy walnuts add a satisfying textural contrast. The ethereal lightness of the yeast-risen bread melts in your mouth, creating a culinary experience that is both indulgent and comforting.
A Festive Addition to Your Holiday Spread
Whether you’re hosting a cozy gathering or simply seeking a taste of holiday cheer, this cranberry walnut bread recipe with yeast is the perfect addition to your festive spread. Serve it warm with a generous spread of butter or cream cheese for a truly indulgent treat.
Tips for a Flawless Loaf
- For a richer flavor, use dark chocolate chips instead of walnuts.
- Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for extra warmth.
- If you don’t have a loaf pan, you can bake the bread in a greased 13×9 inch baking pan.
- To make ahead, bake the bread according to the instructions and let it cool completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
A Culinary Legacy to Cherish
This cranberry walnut bread recipe with yeast is more than just a culinary creation; it’s a legacy to be cherished and passed down through generations. Its festive flavors and comforting texture will evoke memories of warm gatherings and cherished traditions.
Embark on a Culinary Journey
Don’t let the holiday season pass without indulging in the exquisite flavors of our cranberry walnut bread recipe with yeast. Gather your loved ones, embrace the warmth of the oven, and embark on a culinary journey that will leave a lasting impression on your taste buds and your heart.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried cranberries?
A: Yes, you can. Use the same amount of fresh cranberries as dried cranberries, but you may want to reduce the amount of sugar in the dough slightly to balance the sweetness.
Q: Can I make this bread without yeast?
A: Yes, you can make a quick bread version of this recipe without yeast. Simply omit the yeast and honey and add 1 teaspoon of baking powder and 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda to the dry ingredients. Mix the dough and bake according to the instructions.
Q: How do I store this bread?
A: Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
