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
- 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.