The vibrant pink specks of rhubarb nestled within the tender crumb of this loaf create a visually inviting treat, while the toasted walnuts add a satisfying crunch and earthy aroma. This bread brings a delightful balance of tartness and sweetness, making it a comforting companion for tea time or a quick breakfast.
Its rustic charm and moist texture make it perfect for those seeking a simple yet flavorful homemade bread that celebrates seasonal ingredients. Whether sliced thick with butter or enjoyed plain, this loaf is sure to bring warmth and joy to your table.
Full Recipe:
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2 cups all-purpose flour
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1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
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½ teaspoon baking soda
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½ teaspoon salt
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1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
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1 cup granulated sugar
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2 large eggs
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½ cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1 cup buttermilk
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1 ½ cups fresh rhubarb, chopped
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1 cup walnuts, chopped
Directions:
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
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In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Set aside.
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In a large bowl, beat sugar and eggs until light and fluffy. Stir in melted butter and vanilla extract.
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Alternately add the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the wet mixture, starting and ending with dry ingredients. Mix just until combined.
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Fold in the chopped rhubarb and walnuts gently to distribute evenly.
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Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
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Bake for 55-65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Remove from oven and let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 60 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Kcal: Approximately 320 kcal per slice | Servings: 10 slices
The Charm of Rhubarb Walnut Bread: A Perfect Seasonal Delight
Rhubarb Walnut Bread is a timeless classic that brings together the unique tartness of rhubarb and the rich crunch of walnuts in a moist, flavorful quick bread. This loaf is not only a treat for your taste buds but also a celebration of seasonal produce, especially in spring and early summer when rhubarb is at its peak freshness. Unlike traditional breads, this sweet bread strikes a perfect balance between fruitiness and nuttiness, making it a versatile option for breakfast, a snack, or even a light dessert.
Why Rhubarb?
Rhubarb is often referred to as a vegetable, but it is mostly used in sweet dishes, earning it a special place in the baking world. Its bright red stalks bring vibrant color to recipes, and its naturally tart flavor adds a refreshing contrast to sweetness. In baking, rhubarb works beautifully to cut through richer, buttery bases, providing a lively zing that enlivens the palate.
Beyond its taste, rhubarb is packed with nutrients like fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants, which make it a slightly healthier addition to your baked goods. Using fresh rhubarb in this bread enhances the texture, with small juicy pockets that burst lightly in your mouth, balancing the soft crumb and crunchy walnuts.
The Role of Walnuts
Walnuts add more than just texture to this bread. Their earthy flavor complements the rhubarb’s tartness and adds depth to the overall profile of the loaf. Toasted walnuts bring a warm, nutty aroma and a satisfying crunch that contrasts perfectly with the softness of the bread. They are also a good source of healthy fats, protein, and essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids.
Including walnuts elevates this bread from a simple sweet loaf to a more complex, multi-dimensional treat. For those who enjoy a textural play in their baked goods, walnuts are the perfect companion to the tender rhubarb pieces.
Texture and Flavor Harmony
One of the standout qualities of rhubarb walnut bread is its moistness. The inclusion of buttermilk in the batter ensures that the crumb remains tender and rich without being overly dense. This moisture is essential to balance the fibrous rhubarb and crunchy nuts, making every bite soft yet textured.
Flavor-wise, the gentle warmth of cinnamon adds subtle spice notes that tie the tart and nutty elements together. The sweetness is just enough to highlight the natural fruit flavors without overpowering the bread. This harmonious blend makes the bread delightful to eat plain or with a smear of butter, cream cheese, or even honey.
Versatility and Serving Suggestions
This loaf is wonderfully versatile. It can be served fresh and warm from the oven, which brings out the aromas and makes the bread especially inviting. It’s also perfect sliced and toasted the next day for breakfast or a quick snack.
Because of its balanced flavors, it pairs well with a variety of accompaniments. For breakfast, consider serving it with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a drizzle of honey or alongside a cup of coffee or tea. For an afternoon snack, a thin spread of cream cheese or almond butter complements the tanginess of the rhubarb beautifully.
Ideal for All Occasions
Whether you’re baking for a casual family gathering, a brunch party, or simply for everyday enjoyment, this bread fits seamlessly into many occasions. Its rustic look and cozy flavor profile make it particularly fitting for cooler months or transitional seasons when people seek comforting foods with a twist.
Additionally, this bread is a wonderful gift idea. Wrapped in parchment paper and tied with a simple ribbon, it makes a thoughtful homemade present that friends and family will appreciate. It’s also an excellent way to introduce people to rhubarb if they haven’t tried it before.
Health Considerations and Modifications
While this bread is indulgent, it can be tweaked to fit various dietary preferences. For example, swapping all-purpose flour for whole wheat or a gluten-free blend makes it accessible to those with gluten sensitivities. Using coconut sugar or a natural sweetener alternative can reduce refined sugar content.
For a dairy-free version, substitute buttermilk with a plant-based milk mixed with a bit of lemon juice or vinegar to mimic acidity. Additionally, walnuts can be replaced with pecans or almonds depending on availability or taste preference.
Tips for Perfect Results
To get the best outcome, ensure you chop the rhubarb into small, even pieces so it distributes evenly through the batter. Overly large chunks can create soggy pockets, which might affect texture. Toasting the walnuts before folding them into the batter enhances their flavor and crunch.
Do not overmix the batter; combine just until the dry ingredients disappear. Overmixing can develop gluten and lead to a tougher bread. Bake in the middle rack of the oven for even heat circulation, and check doneness with a toothpick towards the end of the baking time.
Storing and Freezing
Rhubarb walnut bread keeps well at room temperature for about 3 days if stored in an airtight container. For longer storage, it freezes beautifully. Slice the bread first and wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw slices at room temperature or toast them directly from frozen for a quick treat.
Conclusion
Rhubarb Walnut Bread is a beautifully balanced quick bread that brings together the best of tart fruit and crunchy nuts in a moist, flavorful loaf. It celebrates seasonal ingredients in a way that is approachable for both novice and experienced bakers alike. This bread is more than just a snack; it’s a cozy, comforting experience that connects you to the rhythm of the seasons.
Its versatility in serving, easy modifications for different diets, and suitability for gifting make it a go-to recipe worth mastering. Whether you enjoy it warm with butter for breakfast or as a sweet afternoon treat, this loaf promises to delight and nourish with every bite.