No-Knead Harvest Fruit Bread is a delightful bread recipe that captures the essence of autumn in every bite. Its tender crumb studded with sweet dried fruits and crunchy nuts makes it a perfect accompaniment for breakfast, snacks, or even as a light dessert. Plus, this recipe is incredibly simple, requiring minimal hands-on time, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels. The no-knead method allows the dough to develop beautifully with just a bit of patience, resulting in an artisan bread that looks and tastes like it came from a bakery.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 12 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 8
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 210
Protein: 5 g
Carbohydrates: 36 g
Fat: 7 g
Fiber: 2 g
Sugar: 5 g
Sodium: 240 mg

Why Make This No-Knead Harvest Fruit Bread

This No-Knead Harvest Fruit Bread is perfect for those who want to enjoy homemade bread without the fuss of traditional kneading. The combination of dried fruits and nuts not only adds a burst of flavor but also fills your home with a warm, inviting aroma as it bakes. Each slice is a journey through various textures and tastes—sweet, nutty, and slightly spiced with cinnamon. It’s not just a bread; it’s a celebration of the season and a way to bring friends and family together over a shared love of good food.

How to Make No-Knead Harvest Fruit Bread

Making this bread is straightforward yet rewarding. Here’s how to do it step by step.

Ingredients:

3 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1/2 teaspoon instant yeast
1 1/2 cups water
1 cup mixed dried fruits (e.g., raisins, cranberries, apricots)
1/2 cup chopped nuts (e.g., walnuts, pecans)
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

In a large bowl, mix together the flour, salt, and yeast.
Step 2: Mixing

Stir in the water until a shaggy dough forms.
Step 3: Incorporating Ingredients

Fold in the dried fruits, nuts, cinnamon, and vanilla extract.
Step 4: Resting the Dough

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it rest at room temperature for 12 to 18 hours.
Step 5: Preheating the Oven

Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C) and place a Dutch oven inside to heat.
Step 6: Shaping the Dough

When the dough is ready, turn it out onto a floured surface and shape it into a ball.
Step 7: Baking

Carefully remove the hot Dutch oven, place the dough inside, cover, and bake for 30 minutes.
Step 8: Finishing the Bake

Remove the lid and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until golden brown.
Step 9: Cooling

Let cool before slicing.

How to Serve No-Knead Harvest Fruit Bread

This bread is versatile and can be served in multiple ways. Enjoy it toasted with a spread of butter or cream cheese for breakfast, or serve slices alongside a warm bowl of soup for lunch. It pairs beautifully with coffee or tea, making it a great option for afternoon snacks. Consider slicing and serving it at gatherings, where it can be one of the star dishes on your table.

How to Store No-Knead Harvest Fruit Bread

To keep your No-Knead Harvest Fruit Bread fresh, store it in a brown paper bag at room temperature for up to 3 days. Alternatively, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and freeze it for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, simply thaw at room temperature or reheat in the oven for a few minutes until warmed through.

Expert Tips for Perfect No-Knead Harvest Fruit Bread

Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh dried fruits and nuts will enhance the bread’s flavor. Try to use organic or locally sourced options when possible.
Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Allowing the dough to rest for 12 to 18 hours is crucial for flavor development and to achieve that beautiful texture.
Adjust for Altitude: If you live at high altitude, consider reducing the yeast slightly to prevent over-proofing.
Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add cloves or nutmeg for additional warmth to the flavor profile.
Check the Dough: If the dough appears too wet or dry, make small adjustments with additional flour or water to achieve a shaggy consistency.

Delicious Variations

Fruit Variations: Swap out the dried fruits for your favorites, such as figs, dates, or even a tropical mix of pineapple and coconut.
Nut Alternatives: Try adding in seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds for a different texture.
Savory Twist: Keep the dried fruits but add herbs like rosemary or thyme for a savory version of this bread.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, bread flour will give your bread a chewier texture and can improve the overall rise.
What if I don’t have a Dutch oven?
You can use any oven-safe pot with a lid, or alternatively, bake it on a baking sheet covered with foil.
Can I use fresh fruits instead of dried?
It’s not recommended, as fresh fruits can add too much moisture. Stick with dried to maintain the proper texture.
How do I know when the bread is done?
The bread should be golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Is it possible to make this gluten-free?
You can try a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, though the texture will differ.

Conclusion

This No-Knead Harvest Fruit Bread is a must-try for anyone who enjoys fresh, homemade bread but prefers a hands-off approach. The enticing combination of dried fruits, crunchy nuts, and warm spices makes it a cozy addition to any meal. Whether you’re savoring a slice with butter or serving it at a gathering, it always promises to impress. Get your ingredients ready, and start your bread-baking adventure today!