No-Knead Rosemary Cranberry Bread with Olive Oil and Sea Salt

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There’s something magical about the smell of freshly baked bread wafting through the house, isn’t there? It’s a scent that wraps you in warmth, much like a cherished family quilt on a chilly evening. Today, I’m inviting you into my kitchen to share a bread recipe that’s as comforting as it is simple: No-Knead Rosemary Cranberry Bread with Olive Oil and Sea Salt. This loaf is an ode to the effortless joy of homemade goodness, where every bite tells a story of love and tradition.

Why should you love this recipe? Let me count the ways. First, it’s no-knead, which means less fuss and more time to enjoy the little things, like a cup of tea or a good book. Second, the combination of rosemary and cranberries offers a delightful dance of savory and sweet, a pairing that’s both unexpected and deeply satisfying. Third, this bread is like a hug from the past, reminiscent of family gatherings where the kitchen was the heart of the home. Fourth, with just a handful of ingredients, it’s a practical choice for both seasoned bakers and kitchen novices alike. Finally, the olive oil and sea salt finish add an extra layer of flavor that’s simply irresistible.

Why This Recipe Should Be on Your Table

Imagine slicing into a loaf of bread, its crust crackling under the knife, revealing a soft, fragrant interior speckled with vibrant cranberries and rosemary. This bread isn’t just an accompaniment; it’s the star of any meal. Whether it’s the centerpiece of a cozy breakfast with butter and jam, or a warm side to a comforting soup dinner, this bread brings people together. It’s perfect for family gatherings, lazy weekends, and even as a thoughtful homemade gift for friends. The best part? Its simplicity means you can whip it up without breaking a sweat — it’s Easy Peasy, just like we love it.

The No-Knead Rosemary Cranberry Bread is a versatile addition to any table. For breakfast, imagine the bread warmed up with a spread of butter that melts instantly, topped with a touch of homemade marmalade or jam. For lunch, it serves as a rustic base for sandwiches — think turkey, brie, and a smear of cranberry sauce for a delightful twist.

In the realm of dinners, this bread pairs beautifully with soups and stews. Its hearty texture and aromatic essence complement a creamy tomato soup or a rich beef stew, offering a delicious mop for those last spoonfuls of broth. Additionally, it’s a wonderful companion to a fresh salad, absorbing the flavors of a light vinaigrette while adding its own savory touch. During festive gatherings, serve it as an appetizer with a selection of cheeses, olives, and a drizzle of honey for a sophisticated platter.

Kitchen Tools to Make This Recipe Easy Peasy

To bring this delightful bread to life, you’ll need just a few kitchen essentials. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Large Mixing Bowl: To mix your ingredients with ease. Choose one with ample space to allow the dough to rise without constraints.
• Dutch Oven with Lid: For that perfect crusty exterior. Preheating it in the oven ensures your bread bakes evenly, giving it a professional bakery-style finish.
• Parchment Paper: Makes transferring the dough to the Dutch oven a breeze. It also prevents the dough from sticking to the pot, ensuring easy removal after baking.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precision is key to baking success. Accurate measurements ensure the right consistency and flavor balance in your bread.
• Wire Rack: Allows your bread to cool properly, ensuring the crust stays crispy. Adequate cooling prevents the bread from becoming soggy at the base.

These tools not only streamline the baking process but also enhance the overall outcome, making each step as enjoyable as the last.

How to Make This Recipe Easy Peasy

INGREDIENTS

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon instant yeast
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried rosemary)
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1 1/2 cups warm water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for drizzling
• Sea salt, for sprinkling

INSTRUCTIONS

1. In a large bowl, combine flour, yeast, salt, and rosemary. Mix thoroughly to ensure the yeast and salt are evenly distributed, which helps in the even rise of the dough.
2. Stir in cranberries, then add warm water and olive oil. Mix until a sticky dough forms. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to bring the mixture together, ensuring no dry flour remains.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let it rest at room temperature for 12–18 hours. The long fermentation develops flavors and a chewy texture.
4. Preheat your oven to 450°F. Place a Dutch oven with its lid inside to heat for 30 minutes. This preheating step is crucial for achieving that signature crust.
5. Turn the dough onto a floured surface, shape it into a ball, and place it on parchment paper. Handle the dough gently to retain as much air as possible for a light texture.
6. Carefully place the dough, along with the parchment, into the hot Dutch oven. Cover and bake for 30 minutes. This initial baking period allows the steam to help develop the crust.
7. Remove the lid and bake for another 15 minutes until golden brown. This final bake deepens the crust color and enhances the bread’s flavor.
8. Cool on a wire rack. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle sea salt before serving. The final touch of olive oil and sea salt elevates the flavor profile, making each bite a delight.

Difficulty: Easy • Cuisine: American • Preparation Time: 15 minutes • Cooking Time: 45 minutes • Total Time: 13-19 hours • Calories: 220 per serving • Servings: 8

Note: If you prefer a stronger rosemary flavor, feel free to add an extra teaspoon of fresh chopped rosemary or a half teaspoon of dried rosemary. This adjustment will intensify the herbal notes, creating an even more aromatic experience.

Health and Flavor Benefits of Ingredients

This bread isn’t just a treat for your taste buds; it’s also packed with ingredients that offer some wonderful benefits. Rosemary, for instance, is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and its ability to enhance memory and concentration. Its aromatic oils contribute not only to flavor but also to health, making each bite a therapeutic experience.

Dried cranberries bring a touch of sweetness and are rich in antioxidants, promoting overall health. They add a burst of tangy flavor, balancing the savory elements beautifully. Cranberries are also a good source of vitamin C and dietary fiber, adding nutritional value to your bread.

Olive oil, often touted in Mediterranean diets, is heart-healthy and adds a lovely richness to the bread. It contains monounsaturated fats that are beneficial for heart health, and its subtle flavor complements the other ingredients without overpowering them.

Using sea salt enhances flavor without overpowering it, allowing the natural taste of the ingredients to shine through. Sea salt’s mineral content contributes to its distinctive flavor, which harmonizes with the bread’s other components, creating a well-rounded taste.

Tasty Pairings to Serve with This Easy Peasy Dish

This versatile bread pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. For breakfast, try it toasted with a smear of cream cheese or a dollop of homemade jam. The creamy texture of the cheese and the sweetness of the jam provide a delightful contrast to the savory bread.

At lunch, it makes for a fantastic sandwich base, especially with turkey and brie. The bread’s robust flavor holds up well to the richness of the brie and the savory notes of the turkey, creating a gourmet sandwich experience.

For dinner, serve it alongside a bowl of soup or a fresh salad — its flavors complement everything from creamy tomato to hearty minestrone. Its hearty texture makes it a perfect partner for soaking up rich broths and dressings.

As a snack, a slice of this bread with a drizzle of honey or a wedge of sharp cheese makes for a delightful bite. The sweetness of the honey or the boldness of the cheese accentuates the bread’s flavors, making it a versatile and satisfying snack option.

Storage Tips and How to Enjoy Leftovers the Easy Peasy Way

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, storing them is easy. Keep your bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps the bread fresh and prevents it from drying out.

For longer storage, slice and freeze the bread; it will keep for up to 3 months. Simply pop a slice in the toaster straight from the freezer for a quick and delicious snack. The freezer preserves the bread’s texture and flavor, making it as good as fresh when toasted.

This bread also makes excellent croutons for salad or soup. Just cube the slices, toss them with olive oil and a pinch of sea salt, and bake until golden brown. These homemade croutons add a delightful crunch and flavor boost to any dish.

As you bake this No-Knead Rosemary Cranberry Bread, may your kitchen be filled with warmth and your heart with joy. This recipe is more than just a method; it’s a tradition, a moment to pause and savor the simple pleasures of life. I hope it becomes a staple in your home, as it has in mine.