Name: No-Knead Cranberry Walnut Bread Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1165 min
Ingredients: ½ teaspoon active dry yeast; 1½ cups warm water; 1 teaspoon granulated sugar; 2 teaspoons Kosher salt; 3 cups bread flour; 2 tablespoons bread flour (for dusting); ¾ cup dried cranberries; ½ cup dried walnuts, roughly chopped; 1 tablespoon honey; 1 tablespoon orange zest

When it comes to mouthwatering aromas wafting through your kitchen, nothing beats the allure of freshly baked bread. This No-Knead Cranberry Walnut Bread Recipe takes simplicity to a whole new level, allowing even the busiest home cooks to create a crusty, flavorful loaf without the fuss of traditional kneading. Picture biting into a warm slice, with the tartness of cranberries perfectly balanced by the earthy crunch of walnuts, all wrapped in a heavenly golden crust.

Imagine pulling this beauty out of your oven, and in that moment, you feel like a baking superstar. It’s perfect for cozy family dinners, holiday feasts, or even as a thoughtful gift for your neighbors. The anticipation builds as you visualize yourself slathering a piece with butter, watching it melt into the warm bread, delivering a flavor explosion that will charm your taste buds.

Why You'll Love This No-Knead Cranberry Walnut Bread Recipe

This incredible No-Knead Cranberry Walnut Bread Recipe transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

Ingredients for No-Knead Cranberry Walnut Bread Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious No-Knead Cranberry Walnut Bread Recipe:

½ teaspoon active dry yeast – This helps your dough rise while keeping the consistency light and airy.
1 ½ cups warm water – A cozy bath for the yeast to wake up and start its magic. Make sure it’s warm but not hot.
1 teaspoon granulated sugar – A little sweetness to help activate the yeast and give the bread a nice flavor depth.
2 teaspoons Kosher salt – Essential for flavor, as well as controlling the fermentation process.
3 cups bread flour – This flour gives your bread structure and that delightful chewiness.
2 tablespoons bread flour – Just a pinch more to help with the final touch of texture.
¾ cup dried cranberries – Sweet-tart notes that brighten the bread with bursts of flavor in every bite.
½ cup dried walnuts, roughly chopped – Earthy crunch that adds depth and a healthy twist to your bread.
1 tablespoon honey – A touch of natural sweetness to complement the cranberries and balance the flavors.
1 tablespoon orange zest – This fragrant addition enhances the overall aroma and gives a refreshing citrus kick.

How to Make No-Knead Cranberry Walnut Bread Recipe

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious No-Knead Cranberry Walnut Bread Recipe:

Step 1: Prepare the Yeast
Dissolve the active dry yeast and granulated sugar in warm water. Let it sit for about 10 minutes until it froths like a bubbly potion ready to work its magic.

Step 2: Mix the Dough
In a large bowl, whisk together the bread flour and Kosher salt. Pour in the yeast mixture and honey, mixing until there are no pesky pockets of flour left. Stir in the dried cranberries, chopped walnuts, and orange zest until just combined, like your friends coming together for a party.

Step 3: Let It Rise
Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and let it rest at room temperature for 18 hours, or overnight. This slow rise is crucial for developing that delicious flavor profile and texture that will leave everyone begging for more.

Step 4: Shape the Dough
After the long wait, transfer the dough onto a well-floured surface. Gently fold the edges toward the center to form a ball. Handle it with love; it’s been waiting patiently, after all!

Step 5: Second Resting Period
Cover the dough with plastic wrap once again and let it rest for another 30 minutes. In the meantime, preheat your oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit and place a 5-to-6 quart oven-proof Dutch oven inside to get nice and toasty.

Step 6: Bake the Bread
Score an X or your preferred pattern on top of the dough to allow it to expand while baking. Carefully transfer the dough into the hot Dutch oven, cover it with the lid, and bake for 30 minutes. After this magical period, remove the lid and bake for an additional 8 to 10 minutes until the crust is a beautiful golden brown color.

Once done, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack. This is where the smells will truly take over your kitchen, making it nearly impossible to resist a slice!

Serve this delightful No-Knead Cranberry Walnut Bread warm or at room temperature. Perfect for any occasion, whether it be a cozy family meal or an elegant afternoon tea. Your friends and family will be singing your praises – and trust me, there will be no left-overs! Enjoy!

You Must Know About No-Knead Cranberry Walnut Bread Recipe

This showstopping No-Knead Cranberry Walnut Bread Recipe delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting No-Knead Cranberry Walnut Bread Recipe Cooking Process

Start by activating the yeast, then mix your dry ingredients while the yeast blooms. After everything is combined, let the dough rest for 18 hours to develop those amazing flavors. Preheat your Dutch oven while the dough forms, ensuring a perfect bake right from the start.

Add Your Touch to No-Knead Cranberry Walnut Bread Recipe

Feel free to swap in different nuts or dried fruits based on your preferences. For a flavor twist, consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg. If you’re feeling adventurous, why not throw in some chocolate chips for a sweet surprise?

Storing & Reheating No-Knead Cranberry Walnut Bread Recipe

Store any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap it well and freeze. To reheat, simply pop it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.

Chef's Helpful Tips for No-Knead Cranberry Walnut Bread Recipe

This professional-quality No-Knead Cranberry Walnut Bread Recipe relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

Making this no-knead bread reminded me of that one dinner party where everyone raved about the aroma filling the house. It truly felt like an achievement, turning casual guests into devoted fans of my baking!

FAQs About No-Knead Cranberry Walnut Bread Recipe

What is No-Knead Cranberry Walnut Bread Recipe?

The No-Knead Cranberry Walnut Bread Recipe is an effortless way to enjoy homemade bread without the labor of traditional kneading. This recipe combines dried cranberries and walnuts, creating a delightful balance of sweet and nutty flavors. With just a few simple ingredients, you can have a delicious artisanal loaf that rivals any bakery. The extended resting time allows the flavors to develop beautifully, resulting in a soft yet crusty bread that is perfect for sandwiches, toasting, or simply enjoying on its own.

How long does it take to make No-Knead Cranberry Walnut Bread?

While the No-Knead Cranberry Walnut Bread may sound like a quick fix, it’s all about patience. The total time includes an 18-hour resting period that allows the yeast to work its magic, developing rich flavors. However, active preparation takes only about 15 minutes, followed by a baking time of 40 minutes. With minimal hands-on effort and a bit of waiting, you will enjoy a delightful loaf that’s well worth the time.

What makes No-Knead Cranberry Walnut Bread special?

The No-Knead Cranberry Walnut Bread stands out due to its simplicity and incredible depth of flavor. The unique combination of sweet cranberries, crunchy walnuts, and aromatic orange zest creates a sensory delight. It’s baked in a Dutch oven, ensuring a beautifully crusty exterior and soft interior. Plus, the no-knead method means anyone, regardless of baking skill, can produce a stunning loaf that impresses family and friends alike!

Can I customize No-Knead Cranberry Walnut Bread Recipe?

Absolutely! The No-Knead Cranberry Walnut Bread Recipe is incredibly versatile. You can experiment with various nuts or dried fruits to suit your taste. For a spicier twist, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg. If you’re feeling bold, throw in some chocolate chips for a deliciously unexpected surprise. Your creativity can lead to unique flavors and textures that make each loaf your own!

Conclusion for No-Knead Cranberry Walnut Bread Recipe

The No-Knead Cranberry Walnut Bread Recipe is a perfect introduction to homemade bread that is both simple and delicious. With minimal effort required, you can create a flavorful and visually appealing loaf that will impress anyone who tries it. From the aromatic blend of cranberries and walnuts to the satisfying crust, this recipe embodies the joy of baking without the hard work. Embrace the art of no-knead baking and make this delightful bread a staple in your kitchen!