If you’ve ever tasted the cranberry walnut bread from Costco, you know how hard it is to eat just one slice. Now imagine recreating that same bakery-fresh flavor at home warm, slightly crusty on the outside, soft and chewy inside, with bursts of tart cranberries and toasted walnuts in every bite. This bread is perfect for breakfast, afternoon snacks, or to serve alongside dinner. Plus, it makes your whole kitchen smell incredible.
What You’ll Need
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1 and 1/2 cups plus 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
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1 teaspoon coarse sea salt
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3/8 cup dried cranberries
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3/8 cup chopped walnuts (or pecans)
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3/4 cup warm water
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1 and 1/2 teaspoons honey
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1/4 teaspoon instant yeast (such as Red Star Platinum)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Mix the dry ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cranberries and nuts, stirring to distribute them evenly.
Activate the yeast
In a separate small bowl, mix the warm water and honey. Stir in the yeast and let it sit for about 5 to 10 minutes until foamy.
Make the dough
Pour the yeast mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until a sticky dough forms. If needed, add a dusting of flour to help it come together.
Knead the dough
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5 to 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Let it rise
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a towel, and let it rise for about an hour in a warm place.
Shape and second rise
Gently punch down the dough and shape it into a round or oval loaf. Place it on a piece of parchment paper on a baking sheet. Let it rise for another 20 minutes.
Bake the bread
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the loaf for 25 to 35 minutes or until golden brown. It should sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. Let it cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Serving Suggestions
This bread shines on its own with a pat of butter, but it also pairs beautifully with soft cheeses, fruit preserves, or honey. Serve it toasted for breakfast, as a side for hearty soups, or sliced into sandwiches with turkey and greens.
Storage Tips
Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store it at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze individual slices in a zip-top bag. Just toast or thaw as needed.
Helpful Tips
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Use warm, not hot, water to activate the yeast without killing it.
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Kneading helps develop the structure. Don’t skip it, the texture depends on it.
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A dusting of cinnamon or nutmeg adds a cozy, spiced touch.
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Swap out cranberries for raisins or chopped dried cherries if preferred.
Variations
Feel free to experiment with different nut and fruit combinations. Almonds, pecans, or even sunflower seeds work great. For a festive twist, mix in orange zest or a drizzle of maple syrup in the dough.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use whole wheat flour?
You can. Just note that it will make the bread denser. Try using half whole wheat and half all-purpose for a balance of flavor and texture.
My dough didn’t rise, what happened?
Check your yeast’s expiration date and make sure the water wasn’t too hot. Yeast that doesn’t foam is likely inactive.
How do I know when it’s done baking?
The top should be golden and crisp. Tap the bottom, if it sounds hollow, it’s ready. For extra certainty, the internal temperature should be around 190°F (88°C).
Costco Cranberry Walnut Bread
Ingredients
Method
- In a large pot, mix together the flour and salt.
- Add in the dried cranberries and chopped nuts, stirring until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the warm water and honey.
- Add in the yeast and let it sit for 5-10 minutes, until it becomes frothy.
- Pour the yeast mixture into the pot with the dry ingredients and stir until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover with a towel. Let it rise for 1 hour.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Punch down the risen dough and shape it into a loaf on a piece of parchment paper.
- Transfer the loaf and parchment paper to a baking sheet and let it rise for another 20 minutes.
- Bake the bread for 25-35 minutes, until it is golden brown on top.
- Let the bread cool before slicing and serving.