Why You’ll Love This Spiced Pear Bread
This spiced pear bread is a cozy treat that brings together the best of fall flavors, making it easy for home bakers to create something special. With its simple steps and quick prep time of about 15 minutes, anyone from busy parents to baking enthusiasts can whip it up without hassle. You’ll appreciate how it offers health benefits like fiber and vitamins from fresh pears, plus it’s versatile for different dietary needs.
One reason this recipe stands out is its delicious mix of juicy pears and warming spices, which add a unique twist to your everyday baking. It yields 10 servings, perfect for sharing with family or enjoying as a snack throughout the week. Whether you’re a student looking for a quick breakfast or a senior wanting something comforting, this bread pairs wonderfully with coffee or tea and can be stored for days.
Beyond taste, the nutritional info per slice includes about 375 calories, 55 grams of carbs, 5 grams of protein, and 16 grams of fat, with small amounts of fiber and minerals that support a balanced diet. For more on how pears boost health, check out this resource on health benefits of pears. This makes it a great option for diet-conscious folks who want flavor without overdoing it.
Jump To
- 1. Why You’ll Love This Spiced Pear Bread
- 2. Essential Ingredients for Spiced Pear Bread
- 3. How to Prepare the Perfect Spiced Pear Bread: Step-by-Step Guide
- 4. Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Spiced Pear Bread
- 5. Mastering Spiced Pear Bread: Advanced Tips and Variations
- 6. How to Store Spiced Pear Bread: Best Practices
- 7. FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Spiced Pear Bread
- 8. Spiced Pear Bread
Essential Ingredients for Spiced Pear Bread
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this spiced pear bread come out just right. Below is a complete list of everything you need, pulled directly from the recipe for accuracy. I’ve organized them into categories to make it simple to follow, ensuring you have the exact measurements for success.
Bread Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1/2 cup sour cream, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 cups peeled and diced ripe pears (about 2 large pears)
Topping Ingredients
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 3 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cubed
These ingredients create a moist, flavorful bread with a crunchy cinnamon topping. For special adaptations like vegan or gluten-free versions, you can swap eggs with flaxseed or use gluten-free flour, as mentioned in other parts of this guide.
How to Prepare the Perfect Spiced Pear Bread: Step-by-Step Guide
Getting started with this spiced pear bread is straightforward, beginning with preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×5-inch loaf pan. Cream the softened butter and light brown sugar until they’re light and fluffy, then add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each to blend smoothly. Next, mix in the sour cream and vanilla extract for a rich base.
In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground cardamom, salt, and baking soda, then gently fold this dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined. Be sure not to overmix to keep the texture light. Fold in the diced ripe pears, then transfer the batter to your prepared pan.
For the topping, mix the light brown sugar, all-purpose flour, and ground cinnamon, then cut in the cold cubed unsalted butter until it forms coarse crumbs. Sprinkle this over the batter before baking. Pop it in the oven for 55 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let it cool for 10 minutes in the pan, then move it to a wire rack to finish cooling. The total time is about 1 hour and 5 minutes, making it ideal for quick baking sessions.
Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Spiced Pear Bread
Tailoring this spiced pear bread to your needs is simple with a few smart swaps. For instance, you can replace eggs with flax eggs or mashed bananas if you’re going plant-based. Another option is to swap vegetable oil though not in this version with coconut oil or applesauce to cut down on fat while keeping things moist.
When it comes to flavors, try different spices like ginger or the cardamom already in the recipe for a fresh twist. You might add grated zucchini or carrots for extra nutrition and moisture. To adjust sweetness, use honey or maple syrup instead of brown sugar, which helps accommodate various tastes and restrictions.
- Protein swaps: Use flax eggs or bananas for eggs.
- Moisture adjustments: Opt for applesauce in place of oil if adapting from other recipes.
- Spice variations: Add ginger for a zesty kick.
These changes let you enjoy the bread while fitting your lifestyle, whether you’re a working professional or a food enthusiast experimenting in the kitchen.
Mastering Spiced Pear Bread: Advanced Tips and Variations
To take your spiced pear bread to the next level, start with pro techniques like using room temperature ingredients for even mixing and a better rise, just as recommended in the tips. Lightly toast nuts such as pecans or walnuts before adding them for extra texture and flavor. Experiment with additions like dried cranberries or a bit of vanilla extract to make each batch unique.
Presentation matters too dust the cooled loaf with powdered sugar or add a simple glaze for a polished look. If you’re planning ahead, prepare the batter the night before and chill it to let flavors deepen. For long-term storage, wrap the baked bread tightly and freeze it for up to three months, thawing as needed for convenience.
| Tip Category | Suggestion |
|---|---|
| Texture Enhancement | Add toasted nuts for crunch |
| Flavor Boost | Incorporate dried fruits |
| Storage Hack | Freeze in portions for easy access |
These strategies help you impress friends and family, turning a simple recipe into something extraordinary. For similar ideas, check out our sweet Alabama pecan bread recipe which pairs well with these techniques.
How to Store Spiced Pear Bread: Best Practices
Keeping your spiced pear bread fresh starts with proper storage right after baking. Keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one day to maintain its moist texture. If you need it to last longer, refrigerate it for up to five days, making sure it’s well-wrapped to avoid drying out.
For freezing, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to lock in moisture and prevent freezer burn it can stay good for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, defrost at room temperature and warm it in a 300°F oven for 10-15 minutes to bring back that fresh-baked feel. This approach works great for meal prep, especially for busy parents or working professionals.
- Room temperature: Up to 1 day for optimal freshness.
- Refrigerator: Up to 5 days when sealed.
- Freezer: Up to 3 months for long-term storage.
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Spiced Pear Bread
What types of pears work best for making spiced pear bread?
Bartlett, Bosc, and Anjou pears are top choices for spiced pear bread. Bartlett pears have a sweet flavor but can become mushy if overripe, so select firm, nearly ripe ones. Bosc pears hold their shape well and add a pleasant texture, while Anjou pears are juicy and slightly tangy, enhancing the overall flavor. Using ripe yet firm pears ensures the bread stays moist without becoming watery.
How can I prevent my spiced pear bread from becoming too dense or soggy?
To avoid dense or soggy spiced pear bread, drain any excess liquid from grated or chopped pears before adding them to the batter. Avoid overmixing once the wet and dry ingredients are combined, as this develops gluten and makes the bread tough. Also, baking at the correct temperature and checking doneness with a toothpick helps maintain a tender crumb.
What spices pair well with pears in spiced pear bread?
Common spices that complement pears in spiced pear bread include cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. These warm spices bring out the pear’s natural sweetness and add depth to the flavor. Using a balanced blend rather than overpowering amounts helps achieve a harmonious taste that’s comforting and inviting.
Can I make spiced pear bread gluten-free or vegan?
Yes, spiced pear bread can easily be adapted to gluten-free or vegan diets. For gluten-free, substitute regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. For vegan versions, replace eggs with flaxseed eggs or applesauce, and use plant-based milk and vegan butter or oil instead of dairy. These substitutions maintain moisture and flavor without compromising texture.
How should spiced pear bread be stored to keep it fresh?
Store spiced pear bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer freshness, refrigerate it for up to a week, ensuring it is well wrapped to prevent drying out. It also freezes well; wrap the bread in foil and plastic wrap before freezing, then thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.
Spiced Pear Bread
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
Description
🍐 This Spiced Pear Bread is infused with warm cinnamon and nutmeg flavors, creating a cozy and comforting treat.
🌟 The tender bread topped with a cinnamon sugar crumb offers a delightful texture and sweetness perfect for any time of day.
Ingredients
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup light brown sugar
– 2 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1/2 cup sour cream, at room temperature
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 2 cups peeled and diced ripe pears (about 2 large pears)
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 3 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cubed
Instructions
1-Getting started with this spiced pear bread is straightforward, beginning with preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×5-inch loaf pan. Cream the softened butter and light brown sugar until they’re light and fluffy, then add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each to blend smoothly. Next, mix in the sour cream and vanilla extract for a rich base.
2-In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground cardamom, salt, and baking soda, then gently fold this dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined. Be sure not to overmix to keep the texture light. Fold in the diced ripe pears, then transfer the batter to your prepared pan.
3-For the topping, mix the light brown sugar, all-purpose flour, and ground cinnamon, then cut in the cold cubed unsalted butter until it forms coarse crumbs. Sprinkle this over the batter before baking. Pop it in the oven for 55 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let it cool for 10 minutes in the pan, then move it to a wire rack to finish cooling. The total time is about 1 hour and 5 minutes, making it ideal for quick baking sessions.
Notes
🧈 Use room temperature ingredients for smoother mixing and better texture.
🍐 Select firm, ripe pears like Bartlett, Bosc, or Anjou for best flavor and texture.
🌰 Consider adding toasted pecans or walnuts to the batter for added crunch and richness.
☕ Enjoy warm or at room temperature, pairs perfectly with coffee or tea.
❄️ Store covered at room temperature for up to one day, refrigerate up to five days, or freeze for up to three months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Snack, Dessert, Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 375 calories
- Sugar: 30 grams
- Fat: 16 grams
- Saturated Fat: 9 grams
- Carbohydrates: 55 grams
- Protein: 5 grams
Keywords: Spiced Pear Bread, Cinnamon Nutmeg Bread, Pear Loaf, Warm Spice Bread