Sweet Walnut Bread: Moist, Nutty, and Perfectly Golden
A rich, tender loaf packed with chopped walnuts and warm sweetness—this easy bread is perfect for breakfast, snacking, or gifting
Introduction: A Slice of Comfort
This Sweet Walnut Bread is a timeless recipe that’s as easy to make as it is satisfying to eat. With a moist crumb, crunchy walnut bits, and a balanced sweetness from both white and brown sugar, it’s the kind of loaf that works for any occasion. Serve it warm with butter, toast it for breakfast, or wrap it up as a homemade gift—it’s versatile, nostalgic, and always a hit.
Whether you’re baking for a cozy weekend or prepping for a holiday brunch, this bread delivers flavor and comfort in every bite.
Ingredients Breakdown
Let’s explore what makes this bread so rich and flavorful:
Nuts:
- Walnuts (2 cups, finely chopped)
Add crunch, earthiness, and a nutty aroma.
Optional: Toast walnuts lightly before adding for deeper flavor.
Sweeteners:
- Granulated sugar (1 cup)
Adds sweetness and structure. - Brown sugar (1 cup)
Adds moisture and a hint of molasses.
Tip: Use light brown sugar for subtle flavor or dark brown for extra richness.
Wet Ingredients:
- Vegetable oil (1 cup)
Keeps the bread moist and tender. - Eggs (4 large, beaten)
Bind the batter and add richness. - Vanilla extract (1 tsp)
Adds warmth and depth.
Optional: Add almond extract or orange zest for a twist.
Dry Ingredients:
- All-purpose flour (1½ cups)
Provides structure and a soft crumb. - Salt (¼ tsp)
Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
Optional: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Set oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan with butter or nonstick spray.
Tip: Line with parchment for easy lifting and cleaner slices.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl:
- Whisk together granulated sugar, brown sugar, beaten eggs, and vegetable oil until smooth.
Tip: Mix until sugars are mostly dissolved for a uniform texture.
Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients
Gradually stir in:
- All-purpose flour
- Salt
Mix until just combined.
Optional: Sift flour for a lighter crumb.
Step 4: Add Flavor
Stir in:
- Vanilla extract
- Chopped walnuts
Mix gently to distribute evenly.
Tip: Don’t overmix—just until incorporated.
Step 5: Bake
Pour batter into prepared pan.
Spread evenly with a spatula.
Bake for 30–35 minutes, until:
- Top is golden
- Toothpick inserted in center comes out mostly clean
Let cool in pan for 15 minutes before slicing.
Optional: Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with honey.
Serving Suggestions
Perfect for:
- Breakfast
- Afternoon tea
- Holiday brunch
- Homemade gifts
Serve with:
- Butter or cream cheese
- Fresh fruit
- Coffee or chai
Presentation Tip: Slice and stack on a rustic board with a sprig of rosemary or orange peel.
Variations to Try
Want to make it your own? Try these delicious twists:
Banana Walnut Bread
Add 2 mashed bananas and reduce sugar slightly.
Coconut Walnut
Add shredded coconut and swap vanilla for coconut extract.
Chocolate Chip Walnut
Fold in ½ cup chocolate chips for extra indulgence.
Vegan Version
Use flax eggs and plant-based oil.
Citrus Twist
Add orange zest and a citrus glaze.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Make-Ahead: Bake up to 2 days in advance.
- Refrigerate: Store in airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
Tip: Slice before freezing for easy grab-and-go portions.
Nutrition Notes (Per Slice, ~1 of 12)
- Calories: ~320
- Protein: ~5g
- Carbohydrates: ~30g
- Fat: ~20g
- Sugar: ~22g
- Sodium: ~120mg
- Fiber: ~2g
This bread is:
- Moist and flavorful
- Comfort food approved
- Easy to make
- Perfect for sharing
Final Thoughts
This Sweet Walnut Bread is more than just a loaf—it’s a celebration of simple ingredients and timeless flavor. Whether you’re serving it warm from the oven or gifting it wrapped in parchment and twine, it’s guaranteed to bring joy.