Indulge in the flavors of Costco’s famous cranberry walnut bread with our detailed recipe, complete with pro tips, substitutions, and storage instructions.
The Costco Cranberry Walnut Bread Phenomenon
Cranberry walnut bread has become a staple in many households, and Costco’s version is particularly revered. This sweet and savory bread, filled with the perfect balance of tangy cranberries and crunchy walnuts, is now easily replicable at home. With our comprehensive Costco Cranberry Walnut Bread Recipe, you’ll be able to create this beloved bread from the comfort of your own kitchen.
To make this homemade bread, you’ll need ingredients like 240 g / 1 cup of warm water, 15 g / 1 tablespoon of sugar, and 350 g / 2 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour. The key to achieving the perfect texture lies in the combination of yeast, salt, and a touch of spice, all of which are carefully balanced in our recipe. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, our expert tips will guide you through the process of creating the perfect cranberry walnut bread.
- Follow our simple recipe to create a delicious and authentic Costco cranberry walnut bread recipe at home.
- Learn the essential tips and tricks for making the perfect homemade bread, every time.
Costco Cranberry Walnut Bread Recipe
This recipe brings the beloved Costco Cranberry Walnut Bread to your kitchen! Enjoy the sweet and tart flavors of cranberries with the crunch of walnuts in every bite. It’s perfect for a cozy breakfast, afternoon snack, or holiday gathering.
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
50-60 minutes
Yields:
1 loaf
- Ingredients: You’ll find a complete list of ingredients below.
- Instructions: Step-by-step instructions are provided to guide you through the baking process.
- Tips: Helpful tips are included for achieving the best results.
Gather Your Ingredients: A Comprehensive List
This Costco-inspired Cranberry Walnut Bread Recipe requires a mix of basic bread ingredients and some specialty items. Make sure to have these ingredients on hand before you start mixing and baking.
- Active dry yeast (2 teaspoons / 10g)
- All-purpose flour (450g / 3 3/4 cups)
- Salt (10g / 2 teaspoons)
- Granulated sugar (60g / 1/4 cup)
- Unsalted butter, melted (120g / 1/2 cup)
- Large eggs (2)
- Whole milk (240ml / 1 cup)
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon)
- Cranberries (120g / 1 cup, fresh or frozen)
- Walnuts (120g / 1 cup, chopped)
Optional Ingredients:
- Orange zest (1 tablespoon)
- Orange juice (60ml / 1/4 cup)
- Espresso powder (1 teaspoon)
- Chopped pecans or hazelnuts (120g / 1 cup)
Before you begin, ensure you have all the necessary ingredients measured out and ready to go. This will save you time and make the mixing process much smoother.
Step-by-Step Instructions: From Mixing to Baking
To create the perfect loaf of Costco-inspired cranberry walnut bread, follow these easy-to-follow instructions and enjoy a delicious homemade bread that rivals the store-bought version.
Start by preheating the oven to 190°C / 375°F and preparing the necessary ingredients, including 240 g / 1 cup of fresh or frozen cranberries and 120 g / 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts.
- Combine 500 g / 2 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 10 g / 2 teaspoons of salt, 10 g / 2 teaspoons of sugar, and 15 g / 1 tablespoon of active dry yeast in a large mixing bowl, whisking until well incorporated.
- Mix 350 ml / 1 1/2 cups of warm water (around 38°C / 100°F) with 15 g / 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter, melted, and add it to the dry ingredients, stirring until a shaggy dough forms.
- Add the cranberries and walnuts to the dough, folding them in gently to distribute evenly throughout the mixture.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic, then place it in a greased bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place (around 24°C / 75°F) for 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough and shape it into a rectangular loaf, placing it in a greased 20 cm x 10 cm / 8 inch x 4 inch bread pan, covering it with plastic wrap, and letting it rise for another 30-40 minutes, or until it has doubled in size again.
- Bake the loaf in the preheated oven at 190°C / 375°F for 35-40 minutes, or until it is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely, which may take around 1-2 hours, depending on the environment.
- Once the bread has cooled, slice it into thick slices, approximately 2.5 cm / 1 inch thick, and serve, storing any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
By following these step-by-step instructions, you will be able to create a delicious homemade Costco-inspired cranberry walnut bread that is perfect for snacking, toasting, or serving as a side dish.
Pro Tips for Achieving the Perfect Crust and Texture
Crafting a Costco Cranberry Walnut Bread with a beautiful, crisp crust and a soft, chewy interior takes a little finesse. Here are some expert tips to ensure your loaf turns out perfectly every time:
Temperature Matters
Proofing Temperature: Yeast loves a warm, cozy environment. Aim for a temperature of 24-27°C (75-80°F) for optimal proofing. Too cold, and the yeast will be sluggish; too hot, and it’ll become stressed and die. A slightly warm oven (turned off!) is often a good spot.
Baking Temperature: A hot oven is key for a good crust. Start with 190°C (375°F) and reduce the temperature to 175°C (350°F) after 15 minutes to prevent over-browning.
Don’t Rush the Rise
Allowing your dough to rise properly is crucial for a light and airy texture. Resist the urge to overproof – the dough should double in size, but not become overly puffy or collapse.
Steam for a Shiny Crust
Add a little steam to your oven during the first 15 minutes of baking. This creates a humid environment that helps the crust develop a beautiful sheen and prevents it from drying out too quickly.
Get Creative with Your Costco Cranberry Walnut Bread Recipe
Want to give this recipe a personal touch? Try these substitutions and variations to create a unique flavor profile.
Ingredient Swaps
- Cranberries: Replace 120 g (1 cup) of fresh or frozen cranberries with 120 g (1 cup) of dried cranberries for a chewier texture and sweeter flavor.
- Walnuts: Swap 60 g (1/2 cup) of walnuts with 60 g (1/2 cup) of pecans or hazelnuts for a different nutty flavor.
- Flour: Substitute 240 g (2 cups) of all-purpose flour with 240 g (2 cups) of whole wheat flour for a nuttier taste and denser texture.
Flavor Enhancers
- Add 1 teaspoon of orange zest or 1 tablespoon of orange juice to enhance the citrus flavor.
- Replace 1 teaspoon of salt with 1 teaspoon of sea salt for a more complex flavor profile.
- Introduce 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon or nutmeg to add warmth and depth.
Remember to adjust the liquid content and baking temperature according to the substitution or variation you choose.
Try These Delicious Variations: Cranberry Orange, Walnut Raisin, and More
Take the classic Costco Cranberry Walnut Bread Recipe to new heights with these creative variations. Each twist offers a unique flavor profile and texture, perfect for experimenting with new tastes.
- Cranberry Orange Bread: Add 60 g / 1/2 cup of orange marmalade and 1 tsp of orange zest to the dough for a burst of citrus flavor. Baking time remains the same: 35-40 minutes at 190°C / 375°F.
- Walnut Raisin Bread: Replace cranberries with 120 g / 3/4 cup of raisins and add an extra 15 g / 1 tbsp of brown sugar. This variation requires 5-7 minutes more baking time due to the added sweetness.
- Pecan Cranberry Bread: Swap walnuts for 60 g / 1/2 cup of pecans and add a hint of maple syrup (15 ml / 1 tbsp). This combination bakes in 30-35 minutes at 180°C / 350°F.
These variations offer a range of flavors to suit any taste. Feel free to experiment and find the perfect combination to elevate your bread game.
Storage and Freezing: Keep Your Bread Fresh for Longer
This Costco Cranberry Walnut Bread is so delicious, you’ll want to savor every slice! To ensure it stays fresh and flavorful, follow these simple storage tips:
Room Temperature
For optimal freshness, store your bread at room temperature in an airtight container. It can be enjoyed this way for up to 3 days.
Refrigeration
For longer storage, pop your bread in the refrigerator. This will keep it good for up to 5 days.
Freezing
Want to enjoy this bread for weeks to come? Freeze it! Simply wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen bread will last for up to 3 months.
To reheat, thaw the bread at room temperature overnight or in the refrigerator. You can also slice it and toast it for a warm and comforting treat.
Troubleshooting Common Issues: A Guide to Perfect Homemade Bread
Making bread can be a rewarding experience, but it’s not uncommon to encounter a few hiccups along the way. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, our expert tips will help you overcome common issues and achieve a delicious, homemade loaf.
Common Issues and Fixes:
- Overmixing: Result: dense, tough bread. Fix: Mix wet and dry ingredients separately and gently fold them together. Be mindful of overmixing during the kneading process.
- Underproofing: Result: dense, flat bread. Fix: Ensure the dough is allowed to rise for the recommended time and in a warm, draft-free environment.
- Overproofing: Result: collapsed, flat bread. Fix: Monitor the dough’s rise and shape it when it has doubled in size. Avoid over-proofing, as this can lead to a flat loaf.
- Incorrect Oven Temperature: Result: undercooked or overcooked bread. Fix: Use a thermometer to ensure your oven is at the correct temperature (225°C / 435°F for a slow rise).
- Dry or Crumbly Crust: Result: a less-than-desirable texture. Fix: Adjust your water content or try adding a little more yeast to achieve a more tender crumb.
By being aware of these common issues and taking the necessary steps to address them, you’ll be well on your way to creating a delicious, homemade loaf that’s sure to impress.
Nutrition Facts: A Closer Look at the Goodness in Your Bread
This Costco Cranberry Walnut Bread Recipe offers a nutrient-rich profile. Per serving (1 slice, approximately 80 g / 2.8 oz), it contains around 240 calories, with a macronutrient breakdown of 40 g / 1.4 oz carbohydrates, 10 g / 0.4 oz protein, and 10 g / 0.4 oz fat.
Notable highlights include 4 g / 0.14 oz of dietary fiber and a moderate amount of sugar from the cranberries. This recipe is not gluten-free (GF), dairy-free (DF), or vegan, due to the presence of wheat flour and other animal-derived ingredients.
- Calories per serving: 240
- Fiber content: 4 g / 0.14 oz
- Can I make this bread in a stand mixer? Yes, you can use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment to mix and knead the dough, but be sure to check the dough’s consistency and adjust the mixing time as needed.
- How do I store leftover bread? Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw frozen bread at room temperature or reheat it in the oven.
- Can I substitute other types of nuts for walnuts? Yes, you can substitute other types of nuts, such as almonds or pecans, but keep in mind that they may change the flavor and texture of the bread.
- Why is it important to not overmix the dough? Overmixing the dough can lead to a dense and tough bread. It’s essential to mix the ingredients just until they come together in a shaggy mass, then let the dough rest and develop its gluten during the rising process.
Frequently Asked Questions: Your Burning Questions Answered
We know you’re eager to bake this delicious Costco Cranberry Walnut Bread, so we’ve compiled answers to your most common questions.
Yeast: Active Dry or Instant?
This recipe works with both active dry and instant yeast. If using active dry yeast, make sure to proof it in warm water (37°C/99°F) with a pinch of sugar before adding it to the dough.
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw them completely before adding them to the dough. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel to remove excess moisture.
What if My Dough is Too Sticky?
If your dough feels excessively sticky, add a tablespoon of flour at a time until it becomes manageable. Remember, the dough should be soft but not overly wet.
How Do I Know When the Bread is Done?
The bread is done when the internal temperature reaches 93°C/200°F. You can also check by tapping the bottom of the loaf—it should sound hollow.
Can I Freeze This Bread?
Absolutely! Slice the cooled bread, wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap, and store them in a freezer-safe bag. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature.
Key Takeaways: What You Need to Know to Make Perfect Costco-Style Cranberry Walnut Bread
Mastering the art of homemade bread requires attention to detail and a few essential techniques. To ensure your Costco-inspired Cranberry Walnut Bread turns out perfectly every time, keep these key takeaways in mind:
- Use quality ingredients: Fresh cranberries and toasted walnuts are essential for the authentic flavor and texture of this bread. Choose high-quality dry ingredients, including unbleached all-purpose flour.
- Monitor temperature and time: Proofing and baking temperatures should be precise: 37°C (98.6°F) for proofing and 180°C (356°F) for baking. Be sure to check the internal temperature of the bread for doneness.
- Don’t overmix the dough: Mix wet and dry ingredients separately and gently fold them together to prevent overdevelopment of the gluten.
- Respect the rising time: Allow the dough to rise for at least 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- Score the bread correctly: Use a sharp knife or razor to make a few diagonal cuts on the surface of the bread before baking.
The Perfect Loaf Awaits – Get Baking!
There you have it – your guide to baking a delicious Costco Cranberry Walnut Bread at home. This recipe captures all the warm, festive flavors of the store-bought version, but with the added joy of creating something special yourself.
Don’t be intimidated by the process, every step is straightforward and the results are well worth the effort. Grab your ingredients, preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F), and let the baking magic begin!
Once you’ve mastered this recipe, explore our other bread baking adventures. From classic sourdough to decadent chocolate loaves, there’s a recipe waiting to become your next baking triumph.
