Cranberry Raisin Walnut Cinnamon Artisan Bread

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Cranberry Raisin Walnut Cinnamon Artisan Bread is the kind of loaf that makes the whole kitchen feel warm before you even slice into it. It is packed with chewy raisins, tart cranberries, crunchy walnuts, and a cozy touch of cinnamon, all folded into a rustic artisan-style bread with a golden crust and tender interior.

Every bite gives you that perfect balance of sweet, nutty, and lightly spiced flavor. It is lovely for breakfast with butter, wonderful with coffee in the afternoon, and just special enough to place on the table for holiday brunches or weekend baking.

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What Makes Cranberry Raisin Walnut Cinnamon Artisan Bread So Good?

This bread stands out because it brings together texture and flavor in a way that feels comforting and homemade. The cranberries add a bright little pop, the raisins bring mellow sweetness, the walnuts add richness, and the cinnamon ties everything together without overpowering the loaf.

It is also a very approachable artisan bread. You get that beautiful bakery-style look and hearty crumb without needing anything overly fussy. Once the dough rises and bakes, the crust turns beautifully golden while the inside stays soft and studded with fruit and nuts.

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Ingredients for the Cranberry Raisin Walnut Cinnamon Artisan Bread

This loaf uses simple pantry staples along with a handful of flavorful mix-ins that make it feel extra special.

Dough Ingredients

• 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast
• 1 1/4 cups warm water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter

Mix-Ins

• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup raisins
• 3/4 cup chopped walnuts

Optional Finish

• 1 tablespoon flour for dusting
• 1 tablespoon melted butter for brushing after baking
• 1 teaspoon honey for a light glossy finish

The flour builds the base of the loaf, while the yeast helps create that airy artisan texture. Cinnamon adds warmth without making the bread taste like dessert. The cranberries and raisins bring sweetness and chewiness, and the walnuts add a slightly toasty crunch that works beautifully with the fruit.

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How To Make the Cranberry Raisin Walnut Cinnamon Artisan Bread

This bread comes together in a few straightforward steps, and most of the time is simply rise time.

Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, sugar, cinnamon, and instant yeast. This helps distribute the yeast and spices evenly through the dough so every slice has balanced flavor.

Step 2: Add the Water and Oil

Pour in the warm water and olive oil or melted butter. Stir with a wooden spoon or dough whisk until a shaggy dough forms. It will look a little rough at first, which is completely normal.

Step 3: Fold in the Fruit and Nuts

Add the dried cranberries, raisins, and chopped walnuts. Mix until they are evenly tucked throughout the dough. If needed, use clean hands to gently knead just enough to help distribute everything without overworking it.

Step 4: First Rise

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rise in a warm spot for about 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until doubled in size. The dough should look puffed and airy.

Step 5: Shape the Loaf

Lightly flour your work surface and turn out the dough. Shape it into a round or oval loaf, depending on the look you want. Place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet or into a lightly floured proofing basket for a more classic artisan shape.

Step 6: Second Rise

Cover the shaped dough and let it rise again for 30 to 45 minutes. During this time, preheat your oven to 375°F.

Step 7: Score and Bake

Use a sharp knife or bread lame to make a few shallow slashes across the top. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the crust is deep golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Step 8: Cool Before Slicing

Transfer the bread to a wire rack and let it cool completely before slicing. This helps the crumb finish setting and keeps the inside from becoming gummy.

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Serving and Storing Cranberry Raisin Walnut Cinnamon Artisan Bread

This bread is delicious served slightly warm with softened butter, cream cheese, or a drizzle of honey. It also makes a wonderful breakfast toast and pairs beautifully with coffee, tea, or a cozy spiced drink. For a brunch spread, you can serve it alongside fruit, yogurt, or egg dishes.

To store it, wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap, foil, or keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, slice the loaf and freeze it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Toasting frozen slices works especially well.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?

Yes, you can. Dissolve the active dry yeast in the warm water with a pinch of sugar first, let it sit for about 5 to 10 minutes until foamy, then continue with the recipe.

Can I make this bread less sweet?

Absolutely. You can reduce the sugar slightly or cut back a bit on the raisins or cranberries if you want a more savory-leaning artisan loaf.

Should I toast the walnuts first?

You can, and it adds even more flavor. Just let them cool before mixing them into the dough.

Can I make this loaf ahead of time?

Yes. You can prepare the dough, cover it, and let it rise slowly in the refrigerator overnight. The next day, bring it closer to room temperature, shape, and bake.

Why do I need to cool the bread before slicing?

Fresh bread continues to set inside as it cools. Slicing too early can make the crumb feel gummy and dense instead of soft and well structured.

Can I turn this dough into smaller rolls?

Yes, this dough can be divided into smaller portions for rolls. Just reduce the baking time and watch for a nicely browned crust.

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Want More Bread Ideas?

If you love homemade breads and comforting baked favorites, these recipes from Life with Jam are worth saving too:

• Cinnamon Sweet Alabama Pecanbread for another cozy loaf with warm cinnamon flavor.
• Honey Butter Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread when you want a rich, sweet bread with buttery appeal.
• Ultimate Banana Nut Bread Recipe for a classic nutty loaf that is perfect for breakfast or snacking.
• Irresistible Super Moist Chocolate Chip Banana Bread if you are in the mood for a sweeter bakery-style quick bread.
• Blueberry Cottage Cheese Breakfast Bake for another cozy make-ahead breakfast idea.

You can also browse even more recipe inspiration on Life with Jam on Pinterest, where fresh kitchen ideas and comforting favorites are shared daily.

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Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest bread board so you can come back to it whenever the craving for a warm homemade loaf hits.

Once you bake it, share how it turned out. Did you add extra cinnamon, swap in pecans, or serve it toasted with honey butter? Little changes can make a homemade loaf feel even more personal.

I always love hearing how these recipes come to life in your kitchen. Questions are welcome too, and your tips may help someone else bake their best loaf yet.

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