How to Make a Flavorful Whole Wheat Walnut Cranberry Bread with Caramelized Onions
This whole wheat walnut cranberry bread has a secret ingredient that elevates it to a whole new level—caramelized onions. The combination of the sweetness of the cranberries, the nutty flavor of the walnuts, and the rich aroma of caramelized onions makes it truly unforgettable.
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 300g whole wheat flour
- 300g bread flour
- 6g salt
- 8g sugar
- 25g fresh yeast (or 7g dry yeast)
- 400-430ml warm water (not over 35°C)
For the Mix-ins:
- 80g walnuts (chopped)
- 50g dried cranberries (chopped)
- 60g onion (1-2 onions, diced)
- 6g sugar
- Vegetable oil (for sautéing)
Instructions:
Prepare the Dough:
Dissolve the yeast in warm water (I used 430ml). In a separate bowl, combine whole wheat flour, bread flour, salt, and sugar. Add the yeast mixture and knead for about 10 minutes using a mixer or by hand. Form the dough into a ball, cover with plastic wrap or a cloth, and let it rise at room temperature for 45 minutes to 1 hour.
Caramelize the Onions:
Dice the onions and sauté them in a bit of vegetable oil for about 2 minutes. Add sugar and cook until golden brown and fragrant. Set aside to cool.
Add the Mix-ins:
Once the dough has risen to about double its size, lightly punch it down and mix in the walnuts, cranberries, and caramelized onions. Knead to distribute evenly.
Second Rise:
Shape the dough into a round loaf, about 15-18cm in diameter. Place it on parchment paper, cover, and let it rise for another 25-30 minutes.
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 240°C (225°C with convection). Place a tray of water at the bottom of the oven to create steam. If using a cast iron or stone baking dish, preheat that as well.
Bake the Bread:
Score the top of the loaf with a sharp knife and carefully transfer it into the oven (inside the preheated dish if using one). Bake at 240°C for 15 minutes, then lower the temperature to 190°C and bake for another 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
Cool and Serve:
Let the bread cool before slicing to fully enjoy its crispy crust and soft, flavorful interior.
Pro Tips:
- The caramelized onions add a depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with the earthy walnuts and tart cranberries. Try the bread plain to savor the blend of flavors.Adjust the quantity of walnuts, cranberries, and onions based on your preference.If you don’t have a cast iron pot, you can simply bake the bread on a regular baking tray, but adding a tray of water in the oven will help create a crispier crust.
This recipe is sure to impress and offers a delightful twist on the traditional walnut cranberry bread!
To add a distinctive flavor to the whole wheat walnut cranberry bread with caramelized onions that you made, you can spread a generous layer of fresh strawberry jam. The combination of sweetness and freshness in the jam perfectly complements the rich texture of the bread and the saltiness of the caramelized onions, providing you with an extraordinary taste experience.
