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Soft Cranberry and Raisin Bread with Walnuts

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    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

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    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

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    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.

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