Soft Cranberry and Raisin Bread with Walnuts

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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