Cranberry Raisin Walnut Cinnamon Artisan Bread
Cranberry Raisin Walnut Cinnamon Artisan Bread is a rustic, golden loaf that blends chewy dried fruits, crunchy walnuts, and warm cinnamon spices. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or gifting, this bread offers a flavorful and textural delight that is both sweet and nutty.
- Author: Mary
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours
- Yield: 1 loaf (8-10 servings) 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Artisan Bread
- Diet: Vegetarian
Dry Ingredients
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
Wet Ingredients
- 1 1/4 cups warm water (100-110°F / 38-43°C)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
Yeast
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
Add-ins
- 3/4 cup dried cranberries
- 3/4 cup raisins
- 3/4 cup chopped walnuts
- Activate the yeast: Combine the warm water, granulated sugar, and active dry yeast in a bowl. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy, indicating the yeast is active and ready to use.
- Mix the dough: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and cinnamon. Add the activated yeast mixture and olive oil or melted butter. Stir gently until a shaggy dough forms.
- Incorporate fruit and nuts: Fold in the dried cranberries, raisins, and chopped walnuts evenly through the dough to ensure bursts of flavor in every bite.
- First rise: Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and place it in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the dough doubles in size and feels puffy.
- Shape the loaf: Lightly flour your work surface and gently shape the dough into a round loaf without deflating it too much. Place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet or into a preheated Dutch oven.
- Second rise: Cover the shaped dough and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes, allowing it to relax and puff slightly before baking.
- Bake to perfection: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Score the top of the loaf with a sharp knife or razor blade to allow for expansion. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Notes
- Use water between 100-110°F to properly activate yeast without killing it.
- Do not over-knead to maintain a tender crumb and rustic texture.
- Toss dried fruits and nuts with a little flour before adding to prevent sinking.
- Place a tray of water at the bottom of the oven to create steam for a crispier crust.
- Tap the base of the loaf to check doneness; a hollow sound means it’s perfectly baked.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 60g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: artisan bread, cranberry bread, raisin bread, walnut bread, cinnamon bread, holiday bread, breakfast bread, snack bread