No-Knead Cranberry Wild Rice Bread

Packed with tender wild rice and sweet dried cranberries, this No-Knead Cranberry Wild Rice Bread is a delightful addition to any meal. Its soft texture and rich flavor make it perfect for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or simply enjoying with a warm cup of tea. Best of all, this easy-to-make recipe requires no kneading, allowing you to create a delicious loaf with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: With no need for kneading, this bread comes together quickly and easily.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of wild rice and cranberries adds a unique twist that will impress your taste buds.
• Versatile Use: Perfect as a side dish, for sandwiches, or toasted with butter—this bread fits any occasion.
• Healthy Ingredients: Made with wholesome ingredients, it’s a nutritious choice for the whole family.
• Stunning Presentation: The rustic look of this bread makes it a beautiful centerpiece on your dining table.

Tools and Preparation

To make this No-Knead Cranberry Wild Rice Bread, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools. Having the right equipment ensures a smooth baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Wooden spoon
• Parchment paper
• Cast iron skillet or Dutch oven
• Sharp knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to mix ingredients thoroughly without making a mess.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for combining dough ingredients without damaging the bowl’s surface.
• Cast iron skillet or Dutch oven: Provides even heat distribution for perfectly baked bread.

Ingredients

Packed with tender wild rice and sweet dried cranberries, this no-knead cranberry wild rice bread is soft, flavorful, and so easy to make!

For the Dough

• 4 cups bread flour (spooned and leveled)
• 2 tablespoons light brown sugar
• 2-1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1-1/2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 14 oz water (room temperature)

For the Mix-ins

• 3/4 cup cooked wild rice
• 3/4 cup dried cranberries

For the Topping

• 1 large egg white, mixed with 1 tablespoon water
• 1/4 cup pepitas (optional)

How to Make No-Knead Cranberry Wild Rice Bread

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, and yeast.
2. Drizzle in water and stir dough well with a wooden spoon until no streaks of flour remain and a dough forms (drizzle in an extra small splash of water if needed).
3. Cover bowl with plastic wrap and let sit at room temperature overnight or 12-24 hours.

Step 2: Shape the Dough

1. When ready to bake, line a 9-inch cast iron skillet or Dutch oven with parchment paper. Set aside for a moment.
2. Using floured hands, punch risen dough down and fold wild rice and cranberries into the dough until combined.
3. Re-flour hands and shape dough into a smooth ball.
4. Transfer dough ball to the prepared Dutch oven or skillet and allow dough to rise 45-60 minutes until puffy and nearly doubled in size.

Step 3: Bake the Bread

1. Adjust oven rack to middle position and preheat oven to 425F.
2. Use a sharp knife to score loaf down the middle.
3. Brush loaf well with egg white wash. Sprinkle pepitas on top if desired.
4. Bake bread at 425F for 35-40 minutes until golden brown and bread registers 190F.
5. Allow to cool several minutes before slicing and serving warm.

Enjoy your homemade No-Knead Cranberry Wild Rice Bread!

How to Serve No-Knead Cranberry Wild Rice Bread

This flavorful no-knead cranberry wild rice bread is versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re serving it as part of a meal or as a snack, these serving suggestions will enhance your experience.

As a Breakfast Toast

• Spread Cream Cheese – Top slices with creamy cheese for a rich breakfast treat.
• Avocado Smash – Mash avocado with salt and pepper for a healthy start to your day.
• Honey Drizzle – Sweeten each slice with honey for a delightful morning boost.

With Soups and Salads

• Pair with Butternut Squash Soup – The sweetness of the bread complements the flavors of the soup.
• Serve alongside a Green Salad – A fresh salad balances the richness of this hearty bread.
• Accompany Lentil Soup – The texture of the bread pairs wonderfully with hearty soups.

As Part of a Charcuterie Board

• Cheese Pairings – Include soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese for contrast.
• Fruit Compote – Add a sweet fruit compote to highlight the cranberries in the bread.
• Nuts and Seeds – Incorporate toasted nuts for crunch and flavor variety.

How to Perfect No-Knead Cranberry Wild Rice Bread

To ensure your no-knead cranberry wild rice bread turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Ensure yeast is active and flour is fresh for optimal rise and flavor.
• Monitor Dough Temperature – Keep water at room temperature to promote good yeast activity during rising.
• Adjust Rising Time – If your kitchen is cold, allow extra time for dough to rise until puffy.
• Shape Carefully – When shaping, handle the dough gently to maintain air bubbles for a lighter texture.
• Score Before Baking – Make shallow cuts on top to help control where the bread expands while baking.

Best Side Dishes for No-Knead Cranberry Wild Rice Bread

Complementing your no-knead cranberry wild rice bread with side dishes can enhance its flavors. Here are some great ideas:

1. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal vegetables roasted in olive oil bring out their natural sweetness.
2. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes with garlic make for a comforting pairing.
3. Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad adds protein and freshness to your meal.
4. Herbed Couscous – Fluffy couscous flavored with herbs makes an excellent side dish.
5. Stuffed Bell Peppers – Colorful peppers filled with grains and veggies provide a nutritious balance.
6. Zucchini Fritters – Crispy fritters add texture and complement the bread’s flavors beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making No-Knead Cranberry Wild Rice Bread can be simple, but a few common mistakes can hinder your results. Here are some tips to ensure your bread turns out perfectly.

• Using the wrong flour – Always use bread flour for the best texture. All-purpose flour will not give you the same structure.
• Not measuring accurately – Spoon and level your flour to avoid adding too much. This can lead to dense bread.
• Ignoring the rise time – Letting the dough rise overnight is crucial. Skipping this step will result in less flavor and texture.
• Overbaking the bread – Keep an eye on the baking time. Overbaking can lead to dry bread, so use a thermometer to check for doneness.
• Skipping the scoring step – Scoring helps control how the bread expands while baking. Don’t skip this step for a more attractive loaf.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your No-Knead Cranberry Wild Rice Bread in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the fridge.

Freezing No-Knead Cranberry Wild Rice Bread

• Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating No-Knead Cranberry Wild Rice Bread

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F and warm for about 10-15 minutes for a crusty exterior.
• Microwave – Heat slices on a plate for about 10-15 seconds; cover with a damp paper towel to keep moisture.
• Stovetop – Toast slices in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making No-Knead Cranberry Wild Rice Bread.

Can I use other fruits instead of cranberries?

Yes, you can substitute dried cherries or raisins if you prefer different flavors.

How can I enhance the flavor of my No-Knead Cranberry Wild Rice Bread?

Consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth and complexity.

What is the best way to serve No-Knead Cranberry Wild Rice Bread?

This bread pairs beautifully with cream cheese or butter, making it perfect for breakfast or snacks.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, using a gluten-free flour blend specifically designed for baking can yield good results.

Final Thoughts

The No-Knead Cranberry Wild Rice Bread is an easy yet delicious choice for any meal. Its unique flavors and soft texture make it versatile enough for breakfast or as a side dish. Feel free to customize it with your favorite nuts or seeds for added crunch!