This cranberry and raisin bread is a soft and flavorful loaf enriched with dried fruits and crunchy walnuts. Perfect for breakfast, tea time, or as a delightful snack, it’s sure to become a favorite treat for the whole family.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Rising Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Baking Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 12 slices
Ingredients
Milk: 300ml (lukewarm)
Sugar: 1/2 cup (100g)
Instant Dry Yeast: 1 tbsp (9g)
Egg: 1
Butter (melted): 3 tbsp (50g)
Flour: 600g (about 4 3/4 cups)
Salt: 1 tsp (4g)
Dried Cranberries: 3-4 tbsp
Brown Raisins: 3-4 tbsp
Golden Raisins: 3-4 tbsp
Chopped Walnuts: 3-4 tbsp
Sugar (for topping): 2 tbsp
Butter (for brushing): As needed
Egg Wash: 1 egg yolk + 1 tbsp milk
Directions
Activate the Yeast:
In a large mixing bowl, combine lukewarm milk, sugar, and instant dry yeast. Stir well and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
Prepare the Dough:
Add the egg, melted butter, and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix until combined.
Gradually add the flour, stirring with a spoon or kneading by hand until a soft, smooth dough forms.
Add the Fruits and Nuts:
Fold in dried cranberries, raisins, and chopped walnuts, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
First Rise:
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Shape the Dough:
Punch down the dough and transfer it to a floured surface.
Shape the dough into a loaf or divide it into smaller portions for rolls. Place it in a greased or parchment-lined loaf pan.
Second Rise:
Cover the dough and let it rise for another 30 minutes until it doubles in size.
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
Apply Egg Wash:
Brush the top of the dough with the egg yolk and milk mixture for a shiny, golden crust.
Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
Cool and Serve:
Brush the bread with melted butter while still warm for extra softness. Allow it to cool before slicing.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy with butter, cream cheese, or your favorite jam.
Pair with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful snack.
Cooking Tips
Use lukewarm milk to activate the yeast properly, but avoid hot milk, as it may kill the yeast.
Soak the dried fruits in warm water for 10 minutes to make them plump and juicy before adding to the dough.
Adjust the sweetness by adding an extra tablespoon of sugar if desired.
Nutritional Benefits
Dried Fruits: Rich in fiber, antioxidants, and natural sweetness.
Walnuts: Provide healthy fats, omega-3, and protein.
Milk and Butter: Add calcium and richness to the bread.
Dietary Information
Vegetarian-Friendly
Nutritional Facts (Per Slice, Approx.):
Calories: 210
Protein: 5 g
Carbohydrates: 35 g
Fat: 6 g
Fiber: 2 g
Sodium: 150 mg
Storage
Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze slices wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven or toaster.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Advertisement
Soft, moist, and bursting with fruity flavors.
Perfect for any time of the day, from breakfast to dessert.
Easy to customize with your favorite dried fruits or nuts.
Makes your kitchen smell heavenly while baking.
Conclusion
This cranberry and raisin bread is a delightful addition to your baking repertoire. Its soft texture, sweet fruits, and nutty crunch make it an irresistible treat. Bake a loaf today and share the joy of homemade goodness with your loved ones!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh fruits instead of dried? Dried fruits are preferred as fresh ones may release too much moisture.
Can I omit the nuts? Yes, the bread will still be delicious without them.
What can I use instead of raisins? Try dried apricots, cherries, or currants.
Can I make this recipe vegan? Replace milk with plant-based milk, butter with vegan butter, and egg with a flaxseed egg.
What if I don’t have a loaf pan? Shape the dough into a free-form loaf and bake on a baking sheet.
Can I add spices? Yes, cinnamon or nutmeg would complement the flavors well.
How do I know when the bread is done? It should be golden brown and sound hollow when tapped.
Can I knead the dough in a mixer? Yes, use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment.
What can I do if my dough is sticky? Add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time, while kneading.
Can I make this ahead? Yes, refrigerate the dough after the first rise and bake the next day.
