I popped them gently with a knife but didn't score the loaf, and it turned out pretty tasty. I'm going to use fewer cranberries and walnuts next time (I omitted raisins, don't like them) because I think there are too many bits and the bread stays a bit too moist.
You don't need fancy bread flours to make a delicious loaf of homemade yeast bread. Find yummy bread recipes you can make using all-purpose flour.
Claire, it's OK to pop those bubbles before baking your loaf. Like you mentioned, it will prevent them from burning or creating large holes (what we sometimes call mouse bread!).
As for scoring the loaf, we checked with our Recipe Team and they've confirmed that this loaf should indeed be slashed. The instructions have been updated to reflect that, thanks to you!
All- Purpose Flour Bread Recipes Brian Yarvin / Getty Images This white bread recipe is the most versatile bread recipe you can find. Made with basic ingredients you can find in the kitchen, fruits and nuts also can be added to the bread dough to make your own unique loaf of bread.