No-Knead Cranberry Wild Rice Bread

Published: November 11, 2025

by lara

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy Preparation: No need to knead! Just mix the ingredients and let time do the work.
Unique Flavor Profile: The combination of cranberries and wild rice adds a delicious twist to traditional bread.
Versatile Use: Enjoy it as a side dish, sandwich bread, or even toasted with your favorite spreads.
Great for Sharing: Bake a loaf to share at gatherings or as a thoughtful gift.
Healthy Ingredients: Packed with whole grains and natural flavors, it’s a wholesome choice.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your No-Knead Cranberry Wild Rice Bread, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment ensures a smooth baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowl
Wooden spoon or spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Plastic wrap or clean kitchen towel
Baking pan

Importance of Each Tool

Mixing bowl: A large bowl is essential for combining all the ingredients without spilling.
Measuring cups and spoons: Precision in measuring is key to achieving the perfect texture and flavor in your bread.
Plastic wrap or clean kitchen towel: Covering the dough during rising helps retain moisture and promotes fermentation.

Ingredients

For the Bread

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup whole wheat flour
1 cup cooked wild rice
1 cup dried cranberries
1 ½ teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon instant yeast
1 ¾ cups warm water

How to Make No-Knead Cranberry Wild Rice Bread

Step 1: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, salt, and instant yeast. Stir well until evenly mixed.

Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients

Pour in the warm water, ensuring it covers all dry ingredients. Gently mix with a wooden spoon or spatula until just combined. The dough will be shaggy but should hold together.

Step 3: Incorporate Rice and Cranberries

Add the cooked wild rice and dried cranberries. Fold them into the dough gently until evenly distributed throughout.

Step 4: Let It Rise

Cover the bowl loosely with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Allow the dough to rise at room temperature for about 12-18 hours or until it has doubled in size.

Step 5: Shape the Dough

After rising, turn the dough out onto a floured surface. Using floured hands, gently shape it into a round loaf without kneading it.

Step 6: Second Rise

Place the shaped dough on parchment paper. Cover it lightly with plastic wrap or a towel again, allowing it to rise for another hour.

Step 7: Preheat Oven

While waiting for the second rise, preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) along with your baking pan inside.

Step 8: Bake the Bread

Once preheated, carefully remove the hot baking pan from the oven. Lift the parchment paper with the dough into the pan. Cover it with a lid or aluminum foil if your pan allows it. Bake for 30 minutes covered, then remove cover and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until golden brown.

Step 9: Cool Down

Remove from oven and let cool on a wire rack before slicing. Enjoy your freshly baked No-Knead Cranberry Wild Rice Bread!

How to Serve No-Knead Cranberry Wild Rice Bread

No-Knead Cranberry Wild Rice Bread is a delightful addition to any meal. Its unique flavor and texture can complement various dishes or stand alone as a satisfying snack. Here are some creative ways to serve this delicious bread.

With Spreads

Cream Cheese: Spread a layer of cream cheese for a creamy contrast that enhances the bread’s flavor.
Herbed Butter: Mix softened butter with herbs like basil or chives for a fresh, aromatic spread.
Fruit Jam: Pair with your favorite fruit jam to add sweetness and brightness.

As a Sandwich Base

Turkey Sandwiches: Use slices of the bread as a base for turkey sandwiches stuffed with fresh veggies.
Veggie Wraps: Layer grilled vegetables and hummus between two slices for a hearty vegetarian option.

Accompaniment to Soups

Creamy Tomato Soup: Serve warm slices alongside creamy tomato soup for a comforting meal.
Vegetable Broth: Dip pieces of the bread into hot vegetable broth for an easy, flavorful snack.

How to Perfect No-Knead Cranberry Wild Rice Bread

To achieve the best results with your No-Knead Cranberry Wild Rice Bread, consider these tips that enhance both flavor and texture.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh cranberries and wild rice to elevate the taste.
Monitor Dough Consistency: Ensure your dough is wet but not overly sticky; this will aid in rising.
Let it Rise Properly: Allow enough time for the dough to rise; this enhances the bread’s texture and flavor.
Preheat Your Oven: A well-preheated oven ensures even baking and helps achieve a nice crust.
Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to incorporate nuts or seeds for added crunch and nutrition.

Best Side Dishes for No-Knead Cranberry Wild Rice Bread

Pairing side dishes with No-Knead Cranberry Wild Rice Bread can create an enjoyable dining experience. Here are some excellent options to consider.

Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized pairs wonderfully with the bread’s sweetness.
Salad Greens: Light salads with vinaigrette provide a refreshing contrast to the dense texture of the bread.
Quinoa Salad: A quinoa salad tossed with cranberries and nuts complements the flavors in the bread beautifully.
Cheese Platter: Offer a selection of cheeses that balance sweetness, such as sharp cheddar or creamy goat cheese.
Stuffed Peppers: Fill bell peppers with grains and vegetables for a colorful side that complements the bread’s flavors.
Baked Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of baked sweet potatoes pairs nicely with the cranberry notes in the bread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making No-Knead Cranberry Wild Rice Bread can be simple, but it’s easy to make common errors. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

Under-measuring ingredients: Using too little flour or liquid can lead to dense bread. Always measure ingredients accurately with a kitchen scale for the best results.
Skipping the resting time: Allowing the dough to rest is crucial for flavor and texture. Don’t rush this step; let it sit covered for at least 12 hours.
Not using enough salt: Salt enhances flavor and strengthens gluten structure. Ensure you add the recommended amount for a balanced taste.
Overmixing the dough: While you don’t knead, you still need to mix properly. Overmixing can cause tough bread; mix just until combined.
Ignoring the oven temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can affect rise and crust. Preheat your oven properly before baking for optimal results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container or wrap in plastic wrap.
Keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing No-Knead Cranberry Wild Rice Bread

Slice before freezing for easier serving.
Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag.
Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating No-Knead Cranberry Wild Rice Bread

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place bread directly on the oven rack for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Wrap a slice in a damp paper towel and heat on medium power for 10-15 seconds.
Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over low heat and toast each side until golden brown.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making No-Knead Cranberry Wild Rice Bread.

Can I use other grains instead of wild rice?

You can substitute wild rice with quinoa or brown rice, but adjust cooking times accordingly.

How do I know when my bread is done?

The bread should have a golden-brown crust and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

What variations can I try with No-Knead Cranberry Wild Rice Bread?

Feel free to add nuts, seeds, or dried fruits like raisins for added flavor and texture.

How do I store leftover No-Knead Cranberry Wild Rice Bread?

Store it in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate it for longer freshness.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring it has binding agents like xanthan gum.

Final Thoughts

No-Knead Cranberry Wild Rice Bread is not only delicious but also highly versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite nuts or seeds. Try this recipe today and enjoy fresh homemade bread that impresses everyone!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card