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 Valentine Cranberry Raisin Walnut Cinnamon Artisan Bread wafts through the air, inviting you to take a moment and savor the moment. With each warm loaf, you’re greeted by the sweet and tangy notes of cranberries and raisins, balanced beautifully with the crunch of walnuts and the coziness of cinnamon. The first slice reveals a crumb that’s both soft and airy—a perfect vessel for the delightful medley of flavors nestled within.

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’ll always remember the first time I baked this bread. It was a chilly February afternoon, and the kitchen was filled with laughter and the chatter of loved ones sharing unforgettable stories. As the bread rose, so did our spirits, making it the centerpiece of our little celebration. With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, this artisan bread is a heartfelt way to express love for family and friends. So gather your ingredients, and let’s create this delicious masterpiece together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: With just a few ingredients and a bit of waiting, you can have freshly baked bread in about 10 minutes of prep and 45 minutes of baking.
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of sweet cranberries, plump raisins, crunchy walnuts, and aromatic cinnamon creates a flavor explosion that’s both comforting and unique.
Eye-Catching Appeal: The artisan crust gives a rustic elegance, making it a show-stopping addition to any table.
Flexible Serving: Perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even as a festive centerpiece for your Valentine’s Day celebrations.
Diet-Friendly Options: Adjust the recipe easily for gluten-free flour or reduce sugar for a healthier option.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1½ cups room-temperature water: It’s essential for activating the yeast. You can substitute with warm water, but avoid hot water as it can kill the yeast.
2–3 tablespoons honey: This adds a natural sweetness and helps in browning the crust. Maple syrup works as a great substitute.
1 teaspoon active dry yeast: This yeast helps the dough rise; you could also use instant yeast without the need for proofing.
3 cups bread flour or all-purpose flour: Bread flour gives a better rise and a chewier texture. All-purpose flour is a good alternative but may yield a softer loaf.
1 teaspoon kosher salt: Essential for flavor and controlling yeast activity. Fine sea salt can be used if that’s what’s on hand.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and enhances the overall flavor. Feel free to experiment with other spices like nutmeg or allspice for a different profile.
¾ cup dried cranberries: These provide a tart sweetness that makes the bread lively. You could use chopped dried cherries or blueberries for a different taste.
½–¾ cup raisins: They add moisture and sweetness; golden raisins would make a lovely visual and flavor variation.
½ cup chopped walnuts: These give a beautiful crunch. If you’re nut-free, sunflower seeds could be a perfect alternative.

How to Make Valentine Cranberry Raisin Walnut Cinnamon Artisan Bread

Combine Wet Ingredients: In a medium bowl, stir together the room-temperature water and honey until dissolved. Then, sprinkle the active dry yeast over the top and let it sit for about 5–10 minutes, until the mixture is foamy. This step is crucial as it activates the yeast, ensuring your dough rises beautifully.

Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the bread flour (or all-purpose flour), kosher salt, and ground cinnamon until well combined. This ensures an even distribution of flavors. The inviting aroma of cinnamon should already start to tickle your senses at this point!

Incorporate Ingredients: Pour the foamy yeast mix into the dry ingredients. Using a spatula, mix gently until the ingredients come together into a shaggy dough. Don’t overmix—you’re looking for a cohesive mass that’s somewhat sticky. Embrace the mess; that’s part of the charm of artisan bread!

First Rise: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rise at a warm room temperature for 8 to 10 hours. It should double in size. This slow fermentation allows the flavors to develop and the texture to soften, providing a depth you’ll love.

Shape and Chill: Once the dough has risen, flour your work surface lightly and transfer the dough onto it. Sprinkle the cranberries, raisins, and walnuts over the dough and fold gently to incorporate them without knocking out too much air. Shape into a round loaf, then place it in the fridge to rest overnight. This cold fermentation enhances flavor dramatically.

Preheat and Prepare: The next day, preheat your Dutch oven to 450°F (232°C). This preheating is key to achieving that perfect crust. While the oven heats, you can prepare your dough by taking it out of the fridge. Place it on a parchment paper-lined surface for easy transfer later.

Score and Bake: Carefully score the top of the dough to allow steam to escape, which gives you that artisan look. Place the dough (with parchment) into the preheated Dutch oven, cover it, and bake for 30 minutes. You should start to notice a lovely rise and smell wafting through your kitchen!

Finish Baking: After 30 minutes, remove the lid and continue baking for an additional 15–20 minutes, until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. Allow it to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing; this will enhance the texture of the crumb. Patience is key here, but oh-so-worth it!

Storing & Reheating

To enjoy your Valentine Cranberry Raisin Walnut Cinnamon Artisan Bread at its best, store it at room temperature in a paper bag or wrapped in a clean kitchen towel for up to 3 days. If you need to keep it longer, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to a week. For long-term storage, freeze slices wrapped in plastic wrap and stored in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply pop a slice in the toaster or warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes. Just keep in mind that toasting may change the texture slightly, but it’ll still taste amazing!

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Always allow your yeast to foam before mixing to ensure it’s alive. If it doesn’t foam up, it’s best to start with new yeast.
For a perfect rise, let your dough rest in a warm place, away from drafts. Consider turning the oven on briefly and then turning it off, letting the dough sit inside.
If your dough feels too dry, a splash of water can help. Conversely, if it’s too wet, a tablespoon of flour can fix it.
Experiment with different dried fruits or nuts based on your preference; this recipe is wonderfully versatile!
Consider making ahead for busy mornings—just remember it needs about 8–10 hours of rising time!

The flavorful journey awaits you with this Valentine Cranberry Raisin Walnut Cinnamon Artisan Bread. Each bite is a celebration of cozy flavors, bringing warmth and smiles to your loved ones. Don’t shy away from experimenting with ingredients, and remember that baking is as much about personal expression as it is about the final product. So, roll up your sleeves, get that kitchen warm, and let love rise!

Recipe FAQs

Can I replace the walnuts with something else?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute walnuts with pecans, almonds, or sunflower seeds if you’re aiming for a nut-free option. Each alternative will give a different texture and flavor profile, making your bread unique every time!

How can I ensure my bread has a crispy crust?

To achieve that beautiful crust, make sure your Dutch oven is preheated thoroughly. Additionally, baking covered helps create steam, which is crucial for a crusty exterior. Unlock the lid for the last 15–20 minutes to get that glorious golden finish.

What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise?

If your dough isn’t rising, it could be due to inactive yeast. Check the expiration date, and always ensure it’s foamy before you mix it into the dough. If it’s still not rising, you can try a warmer spot, as cooler temperatures can slow the fermentation process.

Can I add fresh fruit to this bread?

Using fresh fruit can add great flavor, but be cautious as it contains more moisture. If you do, consider reducing the quantity of liquids slightly or adding the fruit towards the end of mixing to prevent the dough from becoming too wet.