Gluten‑Free Cranberry‑Walnut Bread – Sweet, Tart, and Perfect for Thanksgiving Toast
As the leaves change colors and the air grows crisper, our thoughts turn to the warm, comforting flavors of fall. For many of us, fall means Thanksgiving, and what's a Thanksgiving spread without a delicious, homemade bread to complement the turkey and all the trimmings? This year, why not try something new and bake a gluten‑free cranberry‑walnut bread using almond flour and oat flour for a tender crumb? The combination of fresh cranberries and toasted walnuts adds a bright, tart flavor and a satisfying crunch to each bite, making this bread perfect for toast, sandwiches, or serving alongside your favorite cheese.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups almond flour
- 1/2 cup oat flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan and set it aside.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the almond flour, oat flour, granulated sugar, and salt.
- Step 3: In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.
- Step 4: Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Step 5: Gently fold in the fresh or frozen cranberries and chopped walnuts.
- Step 6: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Step 7: Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the bread comes out clean.
Why This Recipe Works
⏰ Ease of Preparation
This recipe is designed to be easy to follow, with simple steps that yield a delicious, gluten-free bread.
👥 Versatility
This bread is perfect for toast, sandwiches, or serving alongside your favorite cheese. It's also a great base for French toast or bread pudding.
Tips and Variations
🍞 Tip 1: Use Fresh Cranberries
For the best flavor, use fresh cranberries. If using frozen, thaw and pat dry before using.
🥜 Tip 2: Toast Your Walnuts
Toasting your walnuts before chopping them enhances their flavor and texture.
Serving Suggestions
🧀 Serving with Cheese
Slice this bread and serve it alongside your favorite cheese and charcuterie board.
🥘 Making Sandwiches
Use this bread to make delicious sandwiches, perfect for lunch or dinner.
Make Ahead and Storage
📦 Freezing the Bread
This bread freezes well. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and freeze for up to 2 months.
🥐 Refrigerating the Bread
Store this bread at room temperature for up to 3 days or wrap and refrigerate for up to 5 days.
Troubleshooting
🤔 Q: Why is my bread too dense?
A: Overmixing the batter can lead to a dense bread. Mix wet and dry ingredients separately and gently fold them together.
🌮 Q: Can I use different types of flour?
A: While almond flour and oat flour work well together in this recipe, you can experiment with other gluten-free flours. However, the ratio and liquid content might need adjustments.
Final Thoughts
This gluten-free cranberry-walnut bread is not only delicious but also versatile and easy to make. Whether you're looking for a tasty bread to serve alongside your Thanksgiving meal or a quick breakfast option, this recipe has got you covered.
So go ahead, give this recipe a try, and enjoy the sweet, tart flavors of fall in every bite!
