Cranberry Nut Bread Is the Cozy, Wholesome Loaf You'll Want All Fall and Winter

When cooler weather sets in, comfort baking takes center stage and this Cranberry Nut Bread is the perfect loaf to usher in the season. Bursting with the tang of cranberries, the warmth of cinnamon, and the crunch of toasted walnuts, it's a cozy, crowd-pleasing bake that delivers big on flavor and nutrition. Whether enjoyed for breakfast, a midday snack, or alongside your afternoon tea, this wholesome quick bread makes every bite feel a little festive.

And thanks to ingredients like whole-wheat flour, omega-3-rich walnuts, and immune-supporting cranberries, it’s a better-for-you bake that fits right into your seasonal self-care routine.

Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Nut Bread

• Less sugar, more nutrition: This recipe cuts back on refined sugar without sacrificing flavor.

• Fresh or frozen cranberries work: Making it versatile and perfect for year-round baking.

• Whole-wheat flour and walnuts: These ingredients add fiber and healthy fats to support digestion and brain health.

• Optional orange glaze: For those who love a hint of citrusy sweetness, a quick drizzle takes this loaf to the next level.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the bread

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 1 cup whole-wheat flour

• ½ cup granulated sugar

• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

• 1 tsp baking powder

• ½ tsp salt

• 2 large eggs

• ½ cup neutral oil (canola or avocado)

• ¼ cup whole milk

• 1 tbsp grated orange zest

• ½ cup orange juice

• 1 tbsp vanilla extract

• 1 cup coarsely chopped fresh or frozen cranberries

• ½ cup chopped walnuts

For the optional orange glaze

• ⅓ cup confectioners' sugar

• ½ tsp grated orange zest

• 2½ tsp orange juice

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Lightly coat an 8½-by-4½-inch loaf pan with cooking spray.

2. In a medium bowl, whisk together both flours, sugar, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt.

3. In a large bowl, whisk the eggs, oil, milk, orange zest, orange juice, and vanilla.

4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet and fold gently until just combined. Overmixing will lead to a dense loaf.

5. Fold in the cranberries and walnuts until just incorporated.

6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 60 to 65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

7. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

8. Optional glaze: Mix the confectioners’ sugar, orange zest, and juice. Drizzle over the cooled loaf before slicing.

Expert Tips for the Best Cranberry Bread

• Toast the walnuts for a deeper, nuttier flavor just a few minutes in a dry skillet will do.

• If using frozen cranberries, there’s no need to thaw; just coarsely chop and stir them in.

• For a dairy-free version, swap the milk for a plant-based option like almond or oat milk.

The Health Perks of This Cozy Quick Bread

• Cranberries are rich in vitamin C and proanthocyanidins, plant compounds that may help prevent UTIs and boost immune defense.

• Walnuts offer plant-based omega-3s, which support brain health and may reduce inflammation.

• Whole-wheat flour packs in extra fiber, iron, and B vitamins, making this treat feel as good as it tastes.

Baked goods don’t have to be overly sweet or nutrient-empty to be delicious. This cranberry nut bread proves that with the right balance of ingredients, you can have both flavor and function.

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