A few days ago, while sipping on some afternoon tea, I noticed the soft whisper of my kitchen calling me. It was time to bake something special! Enter the No-Knead Rosemary Cranberry Bread with Olive Oil & Sea Salt—an inviting blend of warm aromas that’s simply irresistible. This recipe is a delightful shortcut, requiring no kneading while still delivering that homemade magic we crave. As I brought this bread to life, I couldn’t help but marvel at how quickly it transformed into a beautiful centerpiece for my dining table, perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying solo with a drizzle of extra olive oil. It’s a fabulous way to elevate your baking game without the fuss. Are you ready to fill your home with the scent of fresh bread? Let’s dive into this easy and versatile recipe!

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Why Is This Bread So Irresistible?

Simplicity at its finest: With no kneading required, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced bakers. Flavorful combinations: The melding of sweet cranberries and earthy rosemary tastes heavenly. Versatile options: Feel free to swap cranberries for cherries or mix in your favorite herbs, making it uniquely yours. Perfect for sharing: This bread is a fantastic centerpiece at gatherings, especially paired with soups or salads. Time-saving: You can let it rise overnight, so you can enjoy freshly baked bread with minimal effort! Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a casual get-together, this No-Knead Rosemary Cranberry Bread with Olive Oil & Sea Salt is sure to impress.

No-Knead Rosemary Cranberry Bread Ingredients

For the Bread Base

All-Purpose Flour – Provides the structure of the bread; substitute up to half with whole wheat flour for a heartier texture.
Instant Yeast – Helps the dough rise without the need for kneading; ensure freshness for the best results.
Warm Water – Activates the yeast and hydrates the flour; water temperature should be around 110°F (43°C).
Sea Salt – Enhances flavor and controls yeast activity; use coarse sea salt for a rustic touch.

For the Flavor Boosters

Dried Cranberries (or Fresh) – Adds sweetness and a pop of tartness; substitute with dried cherries for an alternative twist.
Fresh Rosemary – Provides aromatic flavor; substitute with thyme or a mix of herbs for variation.
Olive Oil – Aids in flavor and crust development; drizzle extra before baking for a rich finish.

For the Finishing Touch

Extra Sea Salt – Sprinkled on top before baking for an additional burst of flavor; it perfectly complements the sweetness of the cranberries.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for No-Knead Rosemary Cranberry Bread with Olive Oil & Sea Salt

Step 1: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of sea salt, and 1 teaspoon of instant yeast. Whisk these dry ingredients together until they are evenly mixed, ensuring there are no lumps. The goal is to create a uniform blend that will give your No-Knead Rosemary Cranberry Bread a consistent structure.

Step 2: Add Water
Slowly pour in 1 and ½ cups of warm water, roughly at 110°F (43°C), while gently stirring the mixture with a spatula or wooden spoon. Continue mixing until the dough comes together and forms a shaggy, sticky mass. It’s okay if the dough looks a bit messy; this is what you want for perfect fermentation later on.

Step 3: Incorporate Add-ins
Now, fold in 1 cup of dried cranberries and 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh rosemary into the dough. Gently mix until the cranberries and rosemary are evenly distributed without overworking the dough. This step is essential to ensure that every bite of your No-Knead Rosemary Cranberry Bread is bursting with flavor.

Step 4: First Rise
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel, and let the dough rise at room temperature for 12 to 18 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when it has doubled in size and appears bubbly on the surface. This slow fermentation process is what gives the bread its wonderful texture and rich flavor.

Step 5: Preheat Oven
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Place a Dutch oven (with its lid on) inside the oven to get hot. This step is crucial for achieving a crusty exterior and a soft interior in your No-Knead Rosemary Cranberry Bread.

Step 6: Shape Dough
After the first rise, generously flour a clean surface and gently turn the sticky dough out onto it. With floured hands, shape the dough into a rounded ball, being careful not to deflate it too much. Let it rest for 30 minutes while covered with a kitchen towel; this will help relax the gluten for better final shaping.

Step 7: Bake
Carefully remove the hot Dutch oven from the oven using oven mitts. Transfer the dough onto a piece of parchment paper, then lift it into the hot pot. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with sea salt to enhance the flavors before covering it with the lid. Bake for 30 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the bread is golden brown and crusty.

Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once fully baked, transfer the bread to a wire rack to cool for at least 30 minutes. This cooling period is important because it allows the interior to set properly. After it’s cooled, slice your delicious No-Knead Rosemary Cranberry Bread with Olive Oil & Sea Salt, and it’s ready to serve!

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Storage Tips for No-Knead Rosemary Cranberry Bread with Olive Oil & Sea Salt

Room Temperature: Store uneaten bread in a paper bag at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps the crust crispy while maintaining moisture inside.
Fridge: While refrigerating isn’t recommended as it can dry out the bread, if needed, wrap tightly in plastic wrap for up to 1 week.
Freezer: For long-term storage, slice and freeze the No-Knead Rosemary Cranberry Bread in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. It can be toasted straight from the freezer for a quick treat.
Reheating: To enjoy warm slices, pop them in a toaster oven or regular oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. A touch of olive oil enhances the experience!

Expert Tips for No-Knead Rosemary Cranberry Bread

Fermentation is Key: Allowing the dough to rise for a longer time brings out the deep flavors and texture of the No-Knead Rosemary Cranberry Bread. Don’t rush this step!
Avoid Adding Too Much Flour: When shaping the dough, resist the urge to incorporate excess flour, as it can yield a denser crumb. A bit of stickiness is normal and beneficial!
Check Yeast Freshness: Always use fresh instant yeast to ensure your dough rises properly and results in a light, airy bread. Expired yeast won’t do you any favors.
Be Careful with the Dutch Oven: When you preheat the Dutch oven, remember that it gets extremely hot! Always use oven mitts to avoid burns when removing it from the oven.
Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to swap out cranberries for other fruits or mix herbs for a personalized touch. This flexibility makes your No-Knead Rosemary Cranberry Bread unique to you!

No-Knead Rosemary Cranberry Bread Variations

Feel free to get creative with this No-Knead Rosemary Cranberry Bread and tailor it to your family’s taste buds!

Dried Fruit Swap: Replace dried cranberries with dried cherries or apricots for a unique flavor twist.
Herb Medley: Mix fresh rosemary with thyme or sage to create a fragrant herb blend that enhances the bread’s flavor.
Sweet Twist: Add 1 tablespoon of honey or maple syrup into the dough for a touch of natural sweetness.
Nutty Crunch: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture and a delightful nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the cranberries.
Savory Elevation: Incorporate grated Parmesan or pecorino cheese into the dough for savory richness that beautifully complements the sweetness of the cranberries.
Spicy Kick: Mix in a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of heat that contrasts beautifully with the sweet and savory flavors.
Whole Grain Goodness: Substitute up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier, more nutritious loaf.
Bread Bowl Delight: Shape the dough into smaller rounds to create individual bread bowls, perfect for serving creamy soups or stews, similar to how you might enjoy the delectable Cheddar Beer Bread!

Each one of these variations can add a delightful twist to your baking adventure. Explore and enjoy the process just as much as the mouthwatering end result!

Make Ahead Options

Planning ahead with No-Knead Rosemary Cranberry Bread with Olive Oil & Sea Salt makes busy weeknights a breeze! You can mix the dry ingredients and combine them with warm water up to 24 hours in advance, allowing for a long rise overnight. Additionally, if you’re short on time, you can pre-shape the dough after the first rise and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Just ensure to cover it tightly to maintain moisture. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove it from the fridge, let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes, then bake as directed. This way, you still get that freshly baked goodness without the last-minute rush!

What to Serve with No-Knead Rosemary Cranberry Bread with Olive Oil & Sea Salt

Imagine welcoming guests into your home with the enticing scent of freshly baked bread, perfectly paired with mouthwatering accompaniments.

Savory Soup: A warm, hearty butternut squash soup enhances the sweetness of the cranberries and adds a comforting touch. The combination is simply delightful!
Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with goat cheese, walnuts, and a light vinaigrette provides a crunchy contrast and balances out the bread’s flavors.
Cheese Platter: Serve with a selection of creamy Brie, tangy goat cheese, or sharp cheddar. This combination elevates your bread into a gourmet experience!
Olive Oil Dipping Sauce: A blend of high-quality olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and Italian herbs creates a simple yet delightful dip that complements every slice.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted to perfection add depth and earthy flavors, enhancing every bite of your rosemary cranberry bread.
Herbal Tea: A cup of fragrant herbal tea, like chamomile or rosemary-infused blends, not only warms the spirit but pairs beautifully with the bread’s aromatic notes.
Chocolate Dessert: For a sweet finish, serve a rich chocolate mousse. The contrast of flavors will tantalize your taste buds and make your meal memorable.
Sparkling Water: This refreshing drink cleanses the palate, allowing the bread’s flavors to shine through without overpowering them.

Elevate your dining experience by thoughtfully pairing dishes that complement and enhance the unique flavor profile of your No-Knead Rosemary Cranberry Bread with Olive Oil & Sea Salt. The possibilities are endless, and each choice promises to transform your meal into a feast worth savoring!

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No-Knead Rosemary Cranberry Bread with Olive Oil & Sea Salt Recipe FAQs

What type of cranberries are best for this recipe?
Absolutely! For this No-Knead Rosemary Cranberry Bread, you can use either dried cranberries or fresh cranberries. Dried cranberries add sweetness and a chewy texture, while fresh cranberries provide a gorgeous tartness. If you prefer a different flavor, feel free to substitute with dried cherries or even chopped apricots!

How should I store leftover bread?
If you have any leftover bread — which is rare, I must say! — I recommend storing it in a paper bag at room temperature for up to 3 days. This method keeps the crust nice and crispy while retaining the bread’s moisture. For longer storage, slice the bread and place it in an airtight container or freezer bag, where it can stay fresh for up to 3 months.

Can I freeze the No-Knead Rosemary Cranberry Bread?
Definitely! To freeze your No-Knead Rosemary Cranberry Bread, slice it after it has cooled completely. Lay the slices in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze for about 1-2 hours, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. This step prevents the slices from sticking together, allowing you to take out just the amount you need later. The bread will maintain its quality for up to 3 months!

What should I do if my bread doesn’t rise properly?
If your No-Knead Rosemary Cranberry Bread doesn’t rise as expected, the first thing to check is the freshness of your yeast. Instant yeast should be kept in a cool, dry place, and it can be tested by mixing it with warm water and a pinch of sugar. If it bubbles and grows within 5-10 minutes, it’s active! Additionally, ensure that your dough is kept in a warm environment (around 75-80°F or 24-27°C) during the rising process. If all else fails, consider extending the rise time, as a longer fermentation can enhance the flavor even if it hasn’t doubled in size.

Are there any dietary considerations for this bread?
Great question! This recipe is naturally vegetarian and can be easily adapted for those with dietary restrictions. If you’re looking to make it gluten-free, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. If you have nut allergies, just be sure to double-check the olive oil for cross-contamination. Additionally, if you’re making this No-Knead Rosemary Cranberry Bread for pets, avoid adding salt as it can be harmful to them. Always consider their dietary needs before serving!