18 Delicious Walnut Bread Recipes Perfect for Any Occasion

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April 2, 2025

Are you looking for a delicious and unique addition to your baked goods repertoire? Look no further than walnut bread! This classic recipe has been a staple in many cultures for centuries, and its nutty flavor and crunchy texture make it a perfect choice for any occasion. Whether you’re serving up a hearty breakfast, a satisfying snack, or a decadent dessert, walnut bread is sure to impress.

From sweet treats like banana walnut bread with maple glaze to savory delights like rosemary and walnut bread, we’ve gathered 18 of the most scrumptious walnut bread recipes out there. And the best part? Each one is perfect for any time of year – whether you’re planning a holiday feast or just need a little pick-me-up on a chilly winter morning.

In this article, we’ll dive into the world of walnut bread and explore all the different ways you can use this versatile ingredient to create truly unforgettable baked goods. So go ahead, get baking, and discover the delicious possibilities that await!

Classic Honey Walnut Bread

Classic Honey Walnut Bread
A sweet and savory bread filled with the warmth of honey and crunch of walnuts, perfect for a cozy breakfast or snack.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
3. Add warm water and mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Add honey, walnuts, and melted butter; mix until well combined.
5. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes.
6. Place dough in the prepared loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Cinnamon Swirl Walnut Bread

Cinnamon Swirl Walnut Bread
Get ready to delight your senses with the warm aroma and sweet flavor of this Cinnamon Swirl Walnut Bread! This moist and aromatic loaf is perfect for a cozy breakfast or brunch gathering.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine sugar, milk, eggs, and melted butter. Stir until combined.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in cinnamon and walnuts.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
7. Create a cinnamon swirl by mixing 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon with 1 tablespoon of sugar, then sprinkling it evenly over the batter.
8. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
9. Let cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes before transferring to a plate.

Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes

Banana Walnut Bread with Maple Glaze

Banana Walnut Bread with Maple Glaze
This classic banana bread recipe gets a delicious twist with the addition of crunchy walnuts and a rich maple glaze. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a snack, this sweet treat is sure to please.

Ingredients:

– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp baking soda
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– Salt to taste
– Maple glaze (see below)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and baking soda.
3. In a separate bowl, combine mashed bananas, sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped walnuts. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan.
6. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Maple Glaze:

– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 1 tbsp unsalted butter, softened

Combine glaze ingredients in a small bowl and microwave on high for 10-15 seconds, or until smooth. Drizzle over warm banana bread.

Vegan Walnut Bread with Flaxseed

Vegan Walnut Bread with Flaxseed
This vegan walnut bread recipe combines the earthy flavor of walnuts with the nutty taste of flaxseed, creating a moist and nutritious loaf perfect for snacking or toasting.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 1/2 cup plant-based milk (such as almond or soy milk)
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flours, oats, walnuts, and baking powder.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together maple syrup, plant-based milk, and apple cider vinegar.
4. Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in ground flaxseed.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Pumpkin Walnut Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting

Pumpkin Walnut Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting
Experience the perfect blend of autumn flavors and textures with this moist and delicious Pumpkin Walnut Bread, topped with a tangy and creamy Cream Cheese Frosting.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– Cream Cheese Frosting (recipe below)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine sugar, pumpkin puree, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped walnuts.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cream Cheese Frosting:

– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 2 cups powdered sugar

Beat the ingredients together until smooth and creamy. Spread or drizzle over cooled bread.

Gluten-Free Walnut Bread

Gluten-Free Walnut Bread
This recipe yields a deliciously moist and flavorful gluten-free walnut bread that’s perfect for sandwiches, toast, or as a side dish.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 cups almond flour
– 1/2 cup coconut sugar
– 1/4 cup arrowroot powder
– 1/4 cup tapioca flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 cup melted coconut oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with coconut oil.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together almond flour, coconut sugar, arrowroot powder, tapioca flour, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk eggs until frothy. Add melted coconut oil and stir to combine.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped walnuts.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes

Chocolate Chip Walnut Bread

Chocolate Chip Walnut Bread
This sweet bread is a perfect combination of chocolatey goodness and crunchy walnuts, making it a delightful treat for any occasion. With its rich aroma and soft texture, you’ll find yourself coming back for more.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 cup chopped walnuts

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream sugar and butter until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
5. Stir in chocolate chips and walnuts.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes

Orange Zest Walnut Bread

Orange Zest Walnut Bread
Brighten up your morning with this fragrant and flavorful orange zest walnut bread. The combination of citrusy orange zest, crunchy walnuts, and soft bread is a perfect blend of flavors and textures.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon orange zest
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine sugar, melted butter, egg, and orange zest. Stir until well combined.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Fold in chopped walnuts.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Let cool on wire rack for 10 minutes before slicing.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Rosemary and Walnut Bread

Rosemary and Walnut Bread
This aromatic bread combines the earthy flavor of rosemary with the rich, nutty taste of walnuts, perfect for a rustic snack or accompaniment to your favorite soups and stews.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
3. Add warm water, olive oil, and chopped rosemary; mix until shaggy dough forms.
4. Fold in chopped walnuts.
5. Knead the dough for 10 minutes, then shape into a round or oblong loaf.
6. Place on baking sheet lined with parchment paper, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise for 1 hour.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Whole Wheat Walnut Bread

Whole Wheat Walnut Bread
Moist and flavorful, this whole wheat walnut bread is perfect for a quick breakfast or as a snack to accompany your favorite soup or salad. Made with wholesome ingredients and the added crunch of walnuts, this bread is sure to please.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups whole wheat flour
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 cup warm water
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
2. Gradually add warm water, stirring to form a shaggy dough.
3. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Add chopped walnuts and olive oil; mix well.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and shape into a loaf.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Apple Walnut Bread with Caramel Drizzle

Apple Walnut Bread with Caramel Drizzle
This moist and flavorful bread combines the sweetness of apples and caramel with the earthy taste of walnuts, perfect for a cozy breakfast or snack.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 cup diced apples (about 2 medium-sized)
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– Caramel drizzle (see below)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine melted butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Add diced apples and chopped walnuts to the wet ingredients; mix until combined.
5. Add dry ingredients to the wet mixture; mix until just combined.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Caramel Drizzle:

– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar

Combine all ingredients in a saucepan; cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until caramel turns golden brown (about 5 minutes). Drizzle over cooled bread.

Savory Walnut Bread with Herbs

Savory Walnut Bread with Herbs
This aromatic bread combines the nutty flavor of walnuts with a blend of fresh herbs, perfect as a side dish or used to make sandwiches. The addition of olive oil and garlic gives it a rich and savory taste.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh rosemary
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 3 cups all-purpose flour

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
2. Add olive oil, salt, rosemary, thyme, and walnuts to the mixture. Mix well.
3. Gradually add flour to the mixture and knead until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and shape into a round or oblong loaf.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Spiced Walnut Bread with Cardamom

Spiced Walnut Bread with Cardamom
Aromatic cardamom and warm spices add depth to this moist and flavorful walnut bread, perfect for a cozy morning or afternoon treat.

Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 tsp ground cardamom
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup milk

Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine butter, sugar, egg, and milk. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add the chopped walnuts, cardamom, and flour mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan. Smooth top.
6. Bake for 50-55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Remove from oven and let cool on wire rack for 10 minutes before transferring to a plate.

Cooking Time: 50-55 minutes

Walnut and Fig Bread

Walnut and Fig Bread
This sweet and savory bread combines the rich flavors of walnuts and figs, perfect for a snack or as a accompaniment to your favorite soups or salads.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh figs
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup warm water (about 100°F)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, and sugar.
2. Add chopped figs and walnuts to the dry ingredients; mix until well combined.
3. Gradually add warm water, stirring with a wooden spoon until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
5. Shape into a round loaf and place in a greased 8-inch round baking dish.
6. Drizzle with olive oil; cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour.
7. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Olive Oil Walnut Bread

Olive Oil Walnut Bread
A sweet and savory bread filled with the rich flavors of olive oil and walnuts. This recipe yields a deliciously moist loaf perfect for breakfast, snacks, or as a side dish.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh rosemary (optional)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes.
3. Add olive oil, salt, rosemary (if using), all-purpose flour, and whole wheat flour. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Fold in chopped walnuts.
5. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes.
6. Place the dough in the prepared loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Walnut Sourdough Bread

Walnut Sourdough Bread
This recipe combines the tangy flavor of sourdough with the rich, nutty taste of walnuts, resulting in a delicious and unique bread perfect for sandwiches or toasting.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup sourdough starter (active and bubbly)
– 3 cups bread flour
– 1 cup whole wheat flour
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 tsp salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine sourdough starter, bread flour, and whole wheat flour.
3. Add water and mix until shaggy dough forms.
4. Fold in chopped walnuts and salt.
5. Knead the dough for 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
6. Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise at room temperature for 4-6 hours, or overnight in the fridge.
7. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
8. Shape the dough into a round or oblong loaf, place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Walnut and Raisin Bread

Walnut and Raisin Bread
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this moist and flavorful walnut and raisin bread, perfect for breakfast or a snack.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/2 cup raisins

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine sugar, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Stir until well combined.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped walnuts and raisins.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Walnut Bread with Cranberries and Orange

Walnut Bread with Cranberries and Orange
This walnut bread recipe combines the richness of walnuts with the tartness of cranberries and a hint of orange, creating a perfect treat for any time of day.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup whole wheat flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh walnuts
– 1/2 cup dried cranberries
– 1/2 cup orange juice
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– Zest of 1 orange (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flours, sugar, and baking powder.
3. Add melted butter, egg, orange juice, and chopped walnuts. Mix until just combined.
4. Fold in dried cranberries and orange zest (if using).
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 50-55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Cooking Time: 50-55 minutes

Summary

Indulge in the rich flavor of walnuts with these 18 delicious walnut bread recipes. From classic honey walnut bread to savory options like rosemary and walnut bread, there’s something for every occasion. Sweet treats include banana walnut bread with maple glaze and apple walnut bread with caramel drizzle. Try vegan and gluten-free variations or opt for bold flavors like cinnamon swirl or orange zest. Whether you’re looking for a comforting breakfast or a show-stopping dessert, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.

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