Homemade Costco Cranberry Walnut Bread Recipe

There’s something about cozy sweaters, crisp mornings, and warm meals that makes autumn irresistible. If you’re anything like me, the changing seasons mean a new excuse to indulge in hearty, flavorful baked goods. One of my favorite seasonal staples is the Costco Cranberry Walnut Bread. The sweet tang of cranberries paired with the nutty crunch of walnuts, all nestled in a warm, golden-brown loaf—there’s nothing quite like it.

How to make Costco Cranberry Walnut Bread

Costco Cranberry Walnut Bread is a seasonal artisan-style loaf offered under the Kirkland Signature brand. It is typically available during the fall and winter months.

Ingredients

• 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour (or a mix of all-purpose and whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor)
• 1 ½ teaspoons salt
• 2 tablespoons sugar (or honey for a deeper flavor)
• 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 1 cup warm water (between 110°F–115°F, not too hot!)
• ¼ cup olive oil or melted butter (for richness)
• ½ cup dried cranberries
• ½ cup chopped walnuts (toast them lightly for extra flavor)
• Optional: ½ teaspoon cinnamon or orange zest for added depth

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Dough

1. Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water and sugar (or honey). Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for about 5–10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This indicates the yeast is active and ready.
2. Mix dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. If you’re adding cinnamon or orange zest, mix those in as well.
3. Combine wet and dry: Add the yeast mixture and olive oil (or melted butter) to the dry ingredients. Stir until it starts coming together into a shaggy dough.

Step 2: Incorporating Add-Ins

1. Add cranberries and walnuts: Fold in the dried cranberries and chopped walnuts. Ensure they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough.
2. Knead the dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If the dough feels too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as you go.

Step 3: First Rise

1. Form the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap.
2. Let it rise in a warm, draft-free spot for 1–2 hours, or until the dough has doubled in size.

Step 4: Shaping the Loaf

1. Punch down the dough to release air bubbles, then shape it into a loaf or a round boule.
2. Place the shaped dough on a parchment-lined baking sheet or in a greased bread pan.

Step 5: Second Rise

1. Cover the dough again and let it rise for another 30–45 minutes. It should puff up slightly.

Step 6: Baking

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place an oven-safe dish filled with water on the lower rack for a steamy baking environment.
2. Bake the bread for 30–35 minutes, until the crust is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
3. Let the bread cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.

Tips for Success

• Use fresh yeast: Old yeast may affect the rise, so make sure your yeast is fresh and active!
• Don’t rush the rise: Allowing enough time to proof ensures your bread will be light and airy.
• Toast your walnuts: Spread chopped walnuts on a baking sheet and toast them in a 350°F oven for 5–7 minutes to enhance their flavor.
• Customize the sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter bread, slightly increase the sugar or cranberries.
• Storage: Leftover bread can be stored in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 5 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage.

What to serve with

Costco Cranberry Walnut Bread is versatile and delicious on its own, but pairing it with complementary accompaniments can elevate its flavor, making it suitable for breakfast, lunch, or even as part of a gourmet spread.

Sweet Toppings

• Butter or Whipped Butter: Spread some softened butter for a simple yet rich accompaniment. Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar for a touch of sweetness.
• Cream Cheese or Flavored Cream Cheese: You can opt for plain cream cheese or pair it with flavored varieties like honey walnut, cinnamon, or berry-infused spreads for extra depth.
• Honey or Maple Syrup: Drizzle some honey or grade-A maple syrup for a natural sweetness that pairs perfectly with the Costco Cranberry Walnut Bread’s nutty and tangy notes.
• Mascarpone Cheese with Fresh Berries: Spread creamy mascarpone cheese and top it with fresh berries (like blueberries or raspberries) for a luxurious breakfast option.

Savory Toppings

• Avocado and Sea Salt: Mash ripe avocado, spread it on lightly toasted bread, and sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt and cracked black pepper.
• Whipped Ricotta and Honey: Combine creamy ricotta cheese with a drizzle of honey for a mix of savory and sweet flavors.
• Egg-Based Pairings: Serve the Costco Cranberry Walnut Bread with scrambled eggs, poached eggs, or a cheesy omelet for a protein-packed breakfast.

Ingredients Substitutes

Costco Cranberry Walnut Bread is a delightful combination of sweet, tangy cranberries and nutty walnuts that works perfectly for breakfast or as a snack.

1. All-Purpose Flour

The base ingredient for the bread, all-purpose flour, can be substituted with:

• Whole Wheat Flour: For a fiber-rich and healthier version, replace all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. Note that it may produce a denser Costco Cranberry Walnut Bread.
• Gluten-Free Flour Mix: For a gluten-free option, use a cup-for-cup gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking.
• Almond Flour: Great for a low-carb or keto-friendly variation, but you may need to mix it with another flour (like coconut flour) to maintain the right texture.

2. Dried Cranberries

The sweet-tart flavor comes from dried cranberries, which can be substituted with:

• Raisins or Currants: Raisins offer a sweeter profile, while currants are similar in tartness.
• Dried Cherries: These are similarly tart and sweet, but slightly larger in size.
• Fresh Cranberries: Use fresh cranberries for a burst of natural tartness, although the bread might need additional sweetness to counterbalance.
• Chopped Dates: For a more caramel-like sweetness, use dates. These add a chewy texture.

3. Walnuts

The nuts contribute crunch and flavor, but can be swapped with:

• Pecans: Similar in texture and flavor, pecans make an excellent alternative.
• Almonds: These provide a mild nutty flavor and crunchy texture.
• Pumpkin Seeds: For a nut-free option, pumpkin seeds are packed with nutrients and still deliver a satisfying crunch.
• Sunflower Seeds: Another nut-free choice with a subtle nutty flavor.

4. Milk

Commonly used for moisture, milk can be replaced by:

• Plant-Based Milk: Almond milk, soy milk, oat milk, or coconut milk can be used for dairy-free versions.
• Water: If no milk is available, water can be used with an additional teaspoon of butter or oil to maintain richness.
• Buttermilk: For a tangier flavor and improved texture, buttermilk is an excellent substitution.

5. Butter

Butter adds richness, but it can be substituted with:

• Coconut Oil: Offers a slightly sweet and nutty flavor; use at the same ratio as butter.
• Olive Oil: Ideal for savory bread, it gives a lighter richness.
• Applesauce: A low-fat alternative that also adds a hint of sweetness. Replace butter with applesauce in a 1:1 ratio.
• Greek Yogurt: Adds moisture and a slight tanginess, making it a healthy substitute.

6. Sugar

Sugar provides sweetness, and its substitutes are:

• Honey or Maple Syrup: Reduce the liquid content slightly for a natural sweetener since these are liquids.
• Coconut Sugar: A natural alternative with a slightly caramel flavor.
• Brown Sugar: Adds depth of flavor for a richer sweetness.
• Stevia or Monk Fruit: For a low-calorie option, use these. Adjust the amount as they’re much sweeter than sugar.

7. Yeast

If yeast is unavailable for the bread’s rise:

• Baking Powder or Baking Soda: Use these leavening agents for quicker, non-yeasted bread. However, you’ll need to adjust the rest of the recipe for a batter-like consistency rather than a dough.
• Sourdough Starter: A sourdough starter can be used instead of yeast for an artisanal flavor and natural leavening.

8. Eggs

Eggs provide binding and structure, and you can use:

• Flaxseed or Chia Seeds: Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed or chia seeds with 2.5 tablespoons of water to replace one egg (known as a flax/chia egg).
• Aquafaba: When whipped, the liquid from canned chickpeas can mimic eggs. Use three tablespoons to replace one egg.
• Applesauce or Mashed Banana: These provide binding as well as sweetness. Use ¼ cup for each egg.

Final Thoughts

Costco Cranberry Walnut Bread is versatile. For breakfast, pair it with butter, cream cheese, or your favorite fruit spread. It also makes incredible French toast or bread pudding if you’re feeling indulgent.

More Bread Recipes:

• Copycat Taco Bell Chicken Flatbread Recipe
• Banana Bread with Three Bananas
• King Arthur No-Knead Bread Recipe
• Easter Bread with Eggs
• Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting