What makes this rustic no-knead cranberry orange bread recipe so special?

This easy rustic no-knead cranberry orange bread combines the sweet-tart flavor of dried cranberries with bright orange zest for a soft, chewy loaf and a crisp crust. It’s comparable to a cranberry and pecan bread Marks and Spencer recipe and can easily be adapted into a no-knead rosemary cranberry bread or cranberry orange Dutch oven bread.

Can I make this bread in a bread machine?

Yes, you can create a cranberry pecan bread machine recipe by using the dough setting for the initial rise and folding in dried cranberries and nuts at the end. It’s a convenient way to enjoy a homemade dried cranberry pecan bread without extra effort.

Where can I buy cranberry pecan bread if I don’t bake it?

You can find high-quality options at specialty bakeries, select grocery stores, or online. If you’ve ever wondered where to buy cranberry pecan bread, making this rustic no-knead cranberry orange bread recipe at home often delivers superior flavor and freshness.

Can I modify the flavors in this cranberry bread recipe?

Absolutely. Try adding rosemary for a no-knead rosemary cranberry bread, or swap nuts for extra texture. This versatile recipe can become a dried cranberry bread, cranberry pecan bread, or even a cranberry orange Dutch oven bread depending on your preference.

Rustic No-Knead Cranberry Orange Bread – Easy Homemade Loaf 2025

Name: Rustic No-Knead Cranberry Orange Bread
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 18 h 5 min
Yield: 1 medium loaf
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ teaspoons salt; 1 teaspoon instant yeast; 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, balances tartness); 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F / 43°C); Zest of 1 large orange; 1 cup dried cranberries; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (optional, for brushing)

Description

A beautifully rustic, soft-yet-chewy bread studded with tart cranberries and bright citrus zest. Minimal effort is required thanks to the no-knead method, making it perfect for breakfast, brunch, or festive snacking.

Ingredients

Scale

🛒 Ingredients (Makes 1 medium loaf):

3 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon instant yeast
1 tablespoon sugar (optional, balances tartness)
1 ½ cups warm water (110°F / 43°C)
Zest of 1 large orange
1 cup dried cranberries
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (optional, for brushing)

Instructions

📝 Instructions:

Mix Dough:
- In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, yeast, sugar, and orange zest.
- Stir in warm water until a sticky, shaggy dough forms.
- Fold in dried cranberries until evenly distributed.
First Rise:
- Cover bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Let dough rise at room temperature for 8–12 hours (overnight works well). The dough should double in size and be bubbly.
Shape the Loaf:
- Lightly flour a work surface and your hands. Gently shape dough into a round or oval loaf. Avoid deflating too much of the air bubbles.
- Place loaf on parchment paper for easy transfer to a baking vessel.
Second Rise:
- Cover loosely with a towel and let rise for 30–60 minutes.
Preheat Oven:
- Place a Dutch oven or heavy oven-safe pot (with lid) in the oven and preheat to 450°F (230°C).
Bake:
- Carefully transfer the dough (on parchment) into the preheated pot.
- Cover and bake 30 minutes. Remove lid and bake an additional 15–20 minutes until golden brown and crusty.
Cool & Serve:
- Let bread cool on a wire rack for at least 1 hour before slicing. Brush with melted butter if desired.

Notes

Make It Sweeter: Add ¼ cup honey or maple syrup to the dough for a slightly sweeter loaf.
Texture Variation: Mix in chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.
Storage: Store wrapped in a kitchen towel or paper bag at room temperature for 2–3 days; freeze for longer storage.
Zest Tip: For an extra citrusy aroma, fold in a teaspoon of orange extract or a splash of orange juice.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
Category: Bread / Breakfast / Brunch
Method: No-Knead / Baked
Cuisine: American / Artisan Bread