No-Knead Cinnamon Cranberry Breakfast Loaf
Imagine waking up to the warm, cozy aroma of cinnamon and freshly baked bread wafting through your kitchen. This No-Knead Cinnamon Cranberry Breakfast Loaf is the kind of recipe that makes mornings extra special without the hassle. With tart cranberries, a hint of sweetness, and that irresistible cinnamon swirl, it’s the perfect loaf for breakfast, brunch, or any time you’re craving a comforting treat. Trust me, one slice won’t be enough!
Why You’ll Love No-Knead Cinnamon Cranberry Breakfast Loaf
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family breakfast, hosting a brunch with friends, or simply treating yourself, this loaf is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Versatile: Enjoy it toasted with butter, spread with cream cheese, or simply as is.
Budget-Friendly: Uses pantry staples and affordable dried cranberries.
Quick and Easy: No kneading required, so you can focus on savoring the results.
Customizable: Swap cranberries for raisins, nuts, or even chocolate chips.
Crowd-Pleasing: Its warm cinnamon aroma and soft texture make it a hit with everyone.
Ingredients in No-Knead Cinnamon Cranberry Breakfast Loaf
Here’s the magic of this loaf—it’s made with simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Let’s break it down:
All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of the bread.
Yeast: Helps the dough rise and gives it a soft texture.
Dried Cranberries: Add a sweet-tart burst in every bite.
Cinnamon: Warm and fragrant, perfect for a breakfast loaf.
Sugar: Just enough sweetness to balance the cranberries and spice.
Salt: Enhances all the flavors.
Water: Brings the dough together without kneading.

Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
Preheat Your Equipment: Preheat the oven to 375°F.
Mix the Dough: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, yeast, sugar, salt, cinnamon, and dried cranberries. Add warm water and stir until a shaggy dough forms.
First Rise: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel and let it rise at room temperature for 12-18 hours, or until doubled in size and bubbly.
Shape the Loaf: Gently turn the dough onto a floured surface, shape into a round or oval loaf, and transfer to a parchment-lined baking dish or Dutch oven.
Second Rise: Cover and let the dough rest for another 30-45 minutes.
Bake the Loaf: Bake covered for 30 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until golden brown and crusty.
Cool and Slice: Allow the loaf to cool completely before slicing to lock in the moisture.
Nutrition Facts:
Servings: 10
Calories per serving: 210
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus rising time)
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 13-19 hours (including rise time)
How to Serve No-Knead Cinnamon Cranberry Breakfast Loaf
This loaf is amazing toasted and spread with butter or cream cheese. You can also turn it into French toast, or pair it with a cup of hot coffee or tea for the ultimate cozy breakfast.
Additional Tips
Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
Don’t rush the rise—the long fermentation is what gives the loaf its flavor.
For a softer crust, brush the loaf with melted butter right after baking.
Add chopped nuts for extra crunch and flavor.
FAQ’s
1. Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
Yes, but they may add more moisture to the dough, so adjust as needed.
2. Can I use instant yeast?
Absolutely. Instant yeast works just as well in this no-knead method.
3. Do I need a Dutch oven?
No, but a covered baking dish or even a foil tent works for the first part of baking.
4. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, the dough can rest in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
5. Can I freeze the baked loaf?
Yes, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
6. Can I add other spices?
Definitely! Nutmeg or allspice would pair beautifully with the cinnamon.
7. Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, just use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
8. Can I skip the sugar?
You can, but it balances the tart cranberries and adds flavor.
9. How do I store leftovers?
Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze slices individually.
10. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but bake in two separate loaves for best results.
Conclusion
No-Knead Cinnamon Cranberry Breakfast Loaf is a cozy, flavorful bread that feels like a treat but is simple enough for any home baker. With its warm cinnamon aroma and soft crumb dotted with cranberries, it’s sure to become a breakfast favorite!
Print
No-Knead Cinnamon Cranberry Breakfast Loaf
- Prep Time: 15 mins (plus 12-18 hours rise time)
- Cook Time: 45 mins
- Total Time: 13-19 hours
- Yield: 1 loaf (8 servings) 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A soft and hearty no-knead bread loaded with sweet cinnamon and tart cranberries, perfect for breakfast or as a cozy afternoon snack.
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp instant yeast
- 1 1/2 cups warm water
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- Butter for serving (optional)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix flour, salt, yeast, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
- Stir in warm water and honey until a sticky dough forms. Fold in dried cranberries.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let rise at room temperature for 12-18 hours until doubled in size and bubbly.
- Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C). Place a Dutch oven (or heavy oven-safe pot with lid) inside while preheating.
- Turn dough onto a floured surface and shape into a ball. Carefully place in the preheated pot, cover, and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the lid and bake for another 10-15 minutes until golden brown.
- Cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, soak cranberries in orange juice before adding to the dough.
- This bread freezes well; slice before freezing for easy toasting.
- Can be made with whole wheat flour for a heartier loaf.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: no knead bread, cinnamon cranberry loaf, breakfast bread recipe, easy homemade bread