Cranberry and Walnut Brioche
Prep
2 hrs
Cook
35 mins
Servings
8
Difficulty
Medium
This cranberry and walnut brioche is one of my favorite recipes to make when I want something special but don't need to spend all day in the kitchen. The combination of tart, juicy cranberries and earthy walnuts transforms a classic brioche into something truly memorable, and walnuts are packed with omega 3s that are wonderful for heart health. What I love most is that despite its elegant appearance, this bread comes together in just under three hours from start to finish, making it perfect for weekend baking without the stress. The dough is forgiving and straightforward to work with, so even if you're newer to bread making, you'll find success here.
Ella x
Ingredients
- 500 gstrong bread flour
- 150 gdried cranberries(chopped)
- 120 gwalnuts(roughly chopped)
- 180 mlwarm milk
- 100 gbutter(softened)
- 3eggs
- 50 gcaster sugar
- 8 gsea salt
- 7 ginstant yeast
- 5 mlvanilla extract
- 15 mlhoney(for glazing)
Detail level
Instructions
- 1
Combine warm milk, yeast, and a pinch of sugar in a bowl. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
Tip: Water temperature should be around 37°C for optimal yeast activation.
- 2
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt. Make a well in the centre and pour in the yeast mixture, 2 of the eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
Tip: Use one hand to mix, keeping your other hand clean for later handling.
- 3
Gradually incorporate the softened butter, working it in small pieces at a time. Knead for 8-10 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. The dough will be slightly sticky, which is normal for brioche.
Tip: If the dough is too wet, dust with a little flour, but avoid making it dry.
- 4
Fold in the chopped cranberries and walnuts until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Tip: Reserve a few walnut pieces to press into the top of the loaf before baking for visual appeal.
- 5
Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm place for 60-90 minutes until doubled in size.
Tip: A warm oven with the light on or a proofing box works well for rising.
- 6
Punch down the dough gently and shape into a round loaf or divide into individual brioche buns. Place in a greased baking tin or on a baking tray.
Tip: Shape smoothly for an even rise and attractive finished appearance.
- 7
Cover with a damp cloth and allow a second rise for 45-60 minutes until the dough is puffy and nearly doubled.
Tip: The dough is ready when it springs back slowly when poked gently.
- 8
Preheat oven to 190°C. Beat the remaining egg with a fork and brush over the top of the brioche. Press reserved walnut pieces on top if desired.
Tip: The egg wash creates a beautiful golden-brown finish and shiny surface.
- 9
Bake for 30-35 minutes until deep golden brown. A loaf will sound hollow when tapped on the bottom when fully baked.
Tip: If the top browns too quickly, tent loosely with foil for the final 10 minutes.
- 10
Remove from the oven and brush warm brioche with honey while still hot. Let cool on a wire rack before serving.
Tip: The honey adds a subtle gloss and delicate sweetness without overpowering the cranberry and walnut flavours.
Recipe Variations
Get AI-powered ingredient substitution suggestions.
You Might Also Like
Beergarita
My go to drink for summer gatherings is this refreshing Beergarita, and let me tell you, it's a total crowd pleaser. The combination of tequila, triple sec, fresh lime juice, and a cold Corona creates something that tastes way more complicated than it actually is. Lime juice is packed with vitamin C, which is great for your immune system, and the whole thing takes just five minutes to throw together. Best part? It's incredibly budget friendly since you're probably already stocking most of these ingredients anyway.
Tropical Quinoa
This tropical quinoa bowl has become my go to weeknight dinner because it comes together in just forty minutes and tastes like a mini vacation on a plate. Quinoa is one of my favorite ingredients since it's a complete protein with all nine essential amino acids, making it so satisfying and perfect for keeping energy levels steady. The combination of papaya, red bell pepper, and fresh cilantro brings vibrant flavors and colors, while the rice wine vinegar and orange zest add just the right brightness. Best part is the ingredient list is simple and affordable, yet feels fancy enough to impress anyone at your table.
Yuzu Collins
Have you tried a Yuzu Collins? This is my go to drink when I want something refreshing that comes together in just five minutes. The yuzu juice adds this beautiful citrus brightness that feels fancy but honestly couldn't be easier to make. I love that yuzu is packed with vitamin C, so you're basically getting a little immune boost while you enjoy your cocktail. It's the kind of drink that impresses friends without requiring any special bartending skills, perfect for a casual evening at home.
Reviews
Sign in to write a review.