Walnussbrot (Walnut Bread) Recipe

Nutty, rustic, and beautifully textured, Walnussbrot – or German Walnut Bread – is a hearty loaf filled with toasted walnuts and whole grain goodness. Its rich flavor and chewy crumb make it perfect for both sweet and savory pairings, and it’s a staple in artisan bakeries across Germany.

Whether served with cheese and wine or toasted with honey for breakfast, Walnussbrot brings wholesome warmth to any table.

The Origins of Walnussbrot

Walnut bread has long been baked in the alpine and forested regions of Germany where nuts were abundant. Traditionally made with rye, wheat, or spelt flour and studded with coarsely chopped walnuts, it provided both nutrition and satiety – especially during colder months.

Today, it’s popular year-round and often served with cold cuts, creamy cheeses, or seasonal spreads.

If you enjoy nutty loaves, explore Nussbrot – Nut Bread or Dinkelbrot – Spelt Bread.

Ingredients & Preparation (Step-by-Step Recipe Guide)

Ingredients for Authentic Walnussbrot Recipe

• 250 g (2 cups) whole wheat or spelt flour
• 250 g (2 cups) bread flour
• 1 packet (7 g) dry yeast
• 10 g (2 tsp) salt
• 1 tsp honey or sugar
• 300–325 ml (1¼ cups) lukewarm water
• 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
• 150 g (1 cup) walnuts, coarsely chopped and lightly toasted

Optional tools: Loaf pan, parchment paper, dough scraper

How to Make Walnussbrot (Step-by-Step Instructions)

Step 1: Dissolve yeast and honey in warm water. Let sit for 10 minutes until foamy.

Step 2: In a large bowl, combine flours and salt. Add yeast mixture and oil. Mix until a rough dough forms.

Step 3: Knead for 8–10 minutes, adding the walnuts toward the end. Dough should be soft and slightly sticky.

Step 4: Cover and let rise for 1–1.5 hours until doubled in size.

Step 5: Shape into a loaf or round. Place into a greased loaf pan or onto a lined baking sheet.

Step 6: Let rise again for 30–45 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat oven to 220°C (430°F).

Step 7: Bake for 35–40 minutes. The crust should be golden brown and the loaf should sound hollow when tapped.

Tips:

• Lightly toasting the walnuts enhances their flavor.
• Swap part of the flour with rye or spelt for deeper taste.
• Slash the top before baking for a rustic finish.

Serving Suggestions & Variations

How to Serve Walnussbrot

Delicious with Brie, blue cheese, or fig jam. Try it as an open-faced sandwich base or alongside root vegetable soups and hearty stews.

Variations & Regional Twists

• Fruit & nut: Add raisins or chopped dried figs for a sweet-savory combo.
• Spiced version: Mix in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg.
• Mini loaves: Bake in small pans for individual servings or gifts.

Also check out Früchtebrot – Fruit Bread or Rosinenbrot – Raisin Bread for more festive bakes.

Walnussbrot is a bread lover’s delight – nutty, chewy, and packed with flavor. Whether served warm from the oven or as part of a charcuterie spread, this hearty loaf is guaranteed to impress.

Discover more classic loaves and traditional favorites on our German Bread Recipes page – your guide to rustic, regional, and everyday German baking.