Waldorf Bread Recipe: Easy Homemade Loaf to Try Today

Waldorf bread is a delightful twist on the classic Waldorf salad, incorporating the familiar flavors of crisp apples, crunchy walnuts, and sweet raisins into a soft, aromatic bread. This unique loaf is perfect for breakfast, snacking, or even as an accompaniment to your favorite soups and salads.

The subtle sweetness from the fruit and the nutty crunch make every bite an enjoyable experience, evoking the nostalgic charm of the traditional Waldorf ingredients in a whole new way. Whether you’re an avid baker or a curious home cook, this recipe offers an accessible and rewarding baking adventure that fills your kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma.

In this post, we’ll walk you through the entire process of making Waldorf bread from scratch, share tips to enhance your baking, and suggest ways to enjoy your loaf. Don’t forget to check out some of our other delicious recipes like Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide or Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas for more inspiration!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Waldorf bread recipe is a beautiful harmony of flavors and textures. The sweetness of the apples and raisins balances perfectly with the crunchy walnuts, while the bread itself remains soft and moist.

It’s a versatile loaf that works well for both sweet and savory pairings, making it a great addition to any meal or snack time.

Moreover, this bread is made using simple pantry staples and fresh ingredients, making it easy to prepare at home. The recipe includes detailed instructions that ensure even novice bakers can achieve a perfect result.

Plus, it’s a great way to incorporate fruit and nuts into your diet in a fun and delicious form!

Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
• 1 cup warm water (110°F/43°C)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 medium apple, peeled, cored, and diced
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
• 1/3 cup raisins
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1 tbsp honey (optional, for glazing)

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or dough hook (if using a stand mixer)
• Loaf pan (8×4 inch)
• Kitchen towel or plastic wrap
• Cooling rack
• Pastry brush (for glazing)

Instructions

1. Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and 1 tablespoon of sugar in warm water. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This step ensures your yeast is fresh and active.
2. Prepare the dough base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, remaining sugar, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir well to distribute the spices evenly.
3. Mix wet and dry ingredients: Add the softened butter and the yeast mixture to the flour mixture. Stir with a wooden spoon or use a dough hook on medium speed to combine until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer, knead with the dough hook for about 6-7 minutes.
5. Incorporate fruit and nuts: Gently fold in the diced apple, walnuts, and raisins until evenly distributed throughout the dough. The fruit and nuts add texture and flavor, so be gentle to avoid crushing the apples.
6. First rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl and cover it with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
7. Shape and second rise: Punch down the dough to release the air. Shape it into a loaf and place it in the greased loaf pan. Cover again and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes until it puffs up.
8. Preheat the oven: While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
9. Bake the bread: Bake the loaf for 35-40 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped. If the bread browns too quickly, tent it with foil halfway through baking.
10. Glaze and cool: Remove the bread from the oven and brush the top with honey while still warm for a beautiful glossy finish and extra sweetness. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Tips & Variations

For an extra moist loaf, consider adding a 1/4 cup of plain yogurt or applesauce to the dough.

Try swapping walnuts for pecans or adding a handful of chopped dried cranberries for a tart twist.

To make this recipe vegan, replace the butter with coconut oil and use maple syrup instead of honey for glazing.

For a gluten-free version, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and add an extra teaspoon of xanthan gum for structure.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Waldorf bread is incredibly versatile. Enjoy it toasted with a smear of butter or cream cheese for breakfast.

It also pairs wonderfully with a bowl of hearty soup, such as our Vegan Potato Corn Chowder Recipe for Cozy Comfort Food. For a light lunch, serve it alongside a fresh salad like the Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas.

You can even use it to make a sweet sandwich with nut butter and sliced bananas for a nutritious snack.

Conclusion

Making Waldorf bread at home is a rewarding experience that brings the classic flavors of the Waldorf salad into a warm, comforting loaf. This bread combines the sweetness of apples and raisins with the crunch of walnuts, all wrapped in a soft, spiced dough that’s perfect for any time of day.

With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, it’s an excellent recipe for bakers of all levels looking to try something a little different.

Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or toasted the next day, Waldorf bread is sure to become a favorite in your household. Don’t forget to explore more delightful recipes on our site, such as the Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide or the Vegan Recipes No Tofu: Delicious Plant-Based Meals for more wholesome meal ideas.

Happy baking!

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