Print

Easy No-Knead Artisan Cranberry Walnut Bread

A loaf of freshly baked cranberry walnut bread, partially sliced, showing dried cranberries and walnuts inside.

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Make this rustic, homemade cranberry walnut bread using a simple no-knead method. This loaf balances tart cranberries and crunchy walnuts for a satisfying texture, perfect for a cozy morning bake or holiday gathering.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups bread flour or all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
  • 1.5 teaspoons salt
  • 1.5 cups room-temperature water
  • 1 cup dried cranberries
  • 1 cup chopped walnuts
  • 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for slight sweetness)
  • Orange zest from one orange (optional, for bright flavor)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, mix the flour, yeast, and salt.
  2. Add the water and honey (if using) and mix with a wooden spoon until just combined into a shaggy dough. Do not knead.
  3. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and let the dough rest at room temperature for 12 to 18 hours. The dough will become bubbly and increase in size.
  4. After the long rest, gently scrape the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Sprinkle the dried cranberries, chopped walnuts, and orange zest (if using) over the dough. Gently fold the dough over itself a few times to incorporate the mix-ins without overworking it.
  5. Shape the dough into a rough ball. Place the dough ball seam-side down into a piece of parchment paper.
  6. Cover the dough loosely and let it rest for a second rise for about 30 minutes while you preheat your oven and a Dutch oven (or heavy pot with a lid) to 450°F (232°C).
  7. Carefully remove the hot Dutch oven from the oven. Use the parchment paper handles to lower the dough into the hot pot. Cover with the lid.
  8. Bake covered for 30 minutes.
  9. Remove the lid and continue baking for another 15 to 20 minutes, or until the crust is deep golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 200°F (93°C).
  10. Carefully remove the loaf from the pot and let it cool completely on a wire rack before slicing to achieve the best tender crumb.

Notes

  • Toasting the walnuts lightly before adding them deepens their flavor and crunch.
  • For a Costco cranberry bread copycat flavor, add 1 tablespoon of orange zest to the dough during the final fold.
  • If you prefer a sweeter loaf, add 2 tablespoons of honey to the initial water mixture.

Nutrition