Name: Valentine Cranberry Raisin Walnut Cinnamon Artisan Bread
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1½ cups room-temperature water; 2–3 tablespoons honey; 1 teaspoon active dry yeast; 3 cups bread flour or all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; ¾ cup dried cranberries; ½–¾ cup raisins; ½ cup chopped walnuts

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The aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through the air is one of life’s simplest joys, isn’t it? Imagine pulling a warm loaf of Valentine Cranberry Raisin Walnut Cinnamon Artisan Bread from the oven, its golden crust crackling as it cools. The mingling scents of sweet cranberries, fruity raisins, and earthy walnuts bring a cozy warmth that instantly feels like a hug for your senses. Every bite is a delightful contrast, with the tender crumb embracing the crunch of the walnuts and the spicy kiss of cinnamon lingering on your palate.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Valentine Cranberry Raisin Walnut Cinnamon Artisan Bread
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Valentine Cranberry Raisin Walnut Cinnamon Artisan Bread

Valentine Cranberry Raisin Walnut Cinnamon Artisan Bread

I often think back to making bread with my grandmother during the chilly winter months, our hands dusted with flour and laughter filling the kitchen as we shared stories and secrets. That nostalgic connection makes this particular recipe even more special, as it’s perfect for creating new memories. Whether you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day or simply indulging in a dreamy Saturday afternoon bake, this artisan bread is sure to win hearts. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to enjoy the baking adventure of your life!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: With just 10 minutes of prep and a hands-off rising time, you’ll have fresh bread without fuss.
Irresistible Flavor: Warm cinnamon mingles with sweet and tart flavors, creating pure bliss in every bite.
Eye-Catching Appeal: The vibrant red cranberries and rich walnuts make it a stunning centerpiece.
Flexible Serving: Perfect as a breakfast treat, a celebratory snack, or as a special addition to a brunch spread.
Diet-Friendly Options: With a few tweaks, it’s easily adaptable for gluten-free or vegan diets!

Ingredients You’ll Need

1½ cups room-temperature water: This is essential for activating the yeast, so ensure it’s not cold or hot. You can use filtered or tap water.
2–3 tablespoons honey: Sweetness is key here! Honey adds moisture and a light, floral note. Maple syrup or agave can be excellent substitutes if you’re vegan.
1 teaspoon active dry yeast: Look for fresh yeast for the best rise. If you only have instant yeast, you can use the same amount without proofing.
3 cups bread flour or all-purpose flour: Bread flour creates a chewier texture, but all-purpose works just as well if that’s what you have on hand.
1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhancing the bread’s flavor, salt also helps with gluten structure, giving your loaf the right chewiness.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: This spice is what makes your kitchen smell divine! Feel free to adjust the amount to suit your taste.
¾ cup dried cranberries: Packed with flavor, the cranberries provide a delightful sweetness. You can also use dried cherries for a similar effect.
½–¾ cup raisins: They add an extra layer of sweetness and softness. If you prefer a different dried fruit, apricots or figs could work too.
½ cup chopped walnuts: The walnuts provide a delicious crunch and nutty flavor. Sunflower seeds or pecans can be great alternatives if you’re nut-free.

How to Make Valentine Cranberry Raisin Walnut Cinnamon Artisan Bread

Mix and Activate: In a large bowl, stir together the room-temperature water and honey until well combined. Sprinkle the active dry yeast on top and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until it becomes foamy. This bubbling action lets you know your yeast is alive and ready to make your bread rise.

Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and ground cinnamon until evenly mixed. This will ensure the cinnamon gets distributed throughout the bread and doesn’t clump.

Mix Together: Pour the dry ingredients into the bowl with the activated yeast mixture. Using a wooden spoon or your hands, mix until everything is just combined into a shaggy, somewhat sticky dough. Don’t worry about kneading it just yet—this is a no-knead recipe!

Let It Rise: Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rise at room temperature for 8-10 hours. Ideally, this is done overnight, allowing the flavors to develop beautifully while you sleep.

Shape and Chill: Once the dough has risen and expanded significantly, lightly flour a clean surface. Turn the dough out onto the surface and gently shape it into a round loaf. Place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover it loosely, and refrigerate it overnight to enhance the flavor further.

Preheat and Prepare: On baking day, preheat your Dutch oven to 450°F (232°C) while your dough comes back to room temperature for about 30 minutes. This ensures a steaming environment for that perfect crust!

Score and Bake: After the oven is hot, carefully take the Dutch oven out. Place the dough onto a piece of parchment paper and score the top with a sharp knife. This allows the bread to expand during baking. Bake covered for 30 minutes, then remove the lid and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, until golden brown and crusty all around. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!

Cool: Once baked, transfer the loaf to a wire rack and allow it to cool down for about 30 minutes before slicing. This waiting period can be tough, but it’s crucial for the best texture!

Storing & Reheating

For optimal freshness, store your Valentine Cranberry Raisin Walnut Cinnamon Artisan Bread at room temperature in a bread box or a paper bag for up to 3 days. If you want it to last longer, refrigerate it for about a week in an airtight container. For longer storage, slice the bread and freeze it in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. To refresh, simply toast slices or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes. Keep in mind that freezing may affect the texture, but toasting restores some of that cherished crunch!

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid overworking the dough when mixing; it’s fine if it’s still a bit shaggy.
Let your ingredients like water and honey come to room temperature to ensure good yeast activity.
If your dough feels too wet or sticky, add a sprinkle of flour when shaping.
Testing for doneness? Your bread should sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Want to enhance flavor? Add orange zest or chopped apples along with the cranberries and walnuts.
This recipe can be made ahead! Prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

This Valentine Cranberry Raisin Walnut Cinnamon Artisan Bread is truly a celebration of flavors and a little piece of homemade comfort. It brings nostalgia with every slice, evoking memories of cozy kitchens and warm hearts. Don’t hesitate to experiment, maybe adding your favorite nuts or dried fruits. Enjoy the process, and remember, baking like this is not just about the bread—it’s about the love and joy of the experience. Happy baking!

Recipe FAQs

Can I use whole wheat flour instead?

Absolutely! You can substitute half of the all-purpose or bread flour with whole wheat flour for added nutrition. Just keep in mind that this may yield a denser loaf, so you might need to adjust the hydration slightly. Adding a little more water can help achieve the right consistency.

How do I know if my bread is done baking?

When your bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped, it’s likely ready. You can also use a thermometer to check the internal temperature; it should be around 200°F (93°C). If the crust is getting too dark, you can cover it loosely with aluminum foil while it continues to bake.

Can I add more spices or other add-ins?

Definitely! Feel free to get creative. Adding spices like nutmeg or cardamom can deepen the flavor profile. You can also consider incorporating chocolate chips or seeds for added texture and taste.

What can I do with leftover bread?

If you have any leftover bread, consider making a scrumptious bread pudding or turn it into delicious French toast for breakfast. You can also toast slices and use them for sandwiches or serve them alongside soups or stews for extra heartiness!