Why You’ll Love This Pear Bread Recipe
If you’re looking for a delightful treat, you’ll love this pear bread recipe. It’s moist, sweet, and full of flavor, making it perfect for breakfast or a snack.
The combination of fresh pears and warm cinnamon creates a cozy aroma that fills my kitchen, drawing everyone in. I can’t resist the crunchy pecans adding texture to each bite.
Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make! I often whip it up when I’ve ripe pears, and it never disappoints.
Whether I’m sharing it with friends or enjoying it solo, this pear bread always brings a smile to my face.
Ingredients of Pear Bread
When it comes to whipping up a delicious loaf of pear bread, the ingredients you choose can make all the difference. This recipe is straightforward and calls for just a handful of items that you might already have in your pantry. The star of the show, of course, is the ripe, juicy pears. You know, the ones that are just begging to be used before they get too soft? Those are perfect for this recipe.
But don’t worry, if you don’t have pears on hand, you can always substitute with apples—though I must say, pears give it that special touch.
Here’s what you’ll need to make this mouthwatering pear bread:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 3/4 cup vegetable oil
- 3 eggs
- 2 cups white sugar
- 2 cups peeled, shredded pears
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Now, let’s chat about some ingredient considerations. When it comes to the flour, make sure it’s all-purpose—no need to get fancy here.
And about those pears, the sweeter the better! If they’re a bit overripe, they’ll add even more sweetness and moisture to the bread. Just be sure to peel and shred them well; no one wants a big chunk of pear in their slice, right?
And if you’re not a fan of pecans, feel free to swap them out for walnuts or even chocolate chips if you’re feeling adventurous. Just think about how delightful a chocolate-peppered pear bread would be.
How to Make Pear Bread
Alright, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of making this delectable pear bread. First things first, gather your ingredients because we don’t want any last-minute dashes to the grocery store while you’re elbow-deep in flour. You’ll need 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/4 teaspoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon.
And let’s not forget the wet stuff: 3/4 cup of vegetable oil, 3 eggs, 2 cups of white sugar, 2 cups of peeled and shredded pears, 1 cup of chopped pecans, and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. I swear, the smell of this bread baking will make your kitchen feel like a cozy café.
Now, let’s start mixing things up. In a large mixing bowl, combine those dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Give them a good stir, and then make a little well in the center—think of it like a tiny crater waiting for its filling.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, eggs, sugar, grated pears, pecans, and vanilla. It’s like a party in there, and you want everyone to get along. Once it’s all blended and happy, pour this mixture into the well you made in your dry ingredients.
Now, here’s the trick: stir it all together, but don’t go overboard. We’re aiming for just moistened, not a gluten workout session. When you’ve got a nice, slightly lumpy batter, it’s time to spoon it into two greased and floured 8x5x3 inch loaf pans.
I always feel like a professional baker at this point, even if my kitchen looks like a flour bomb went off. Now, pop those pans into a preheated oven at 325 degrees Fahrenheit and sit back for about an hour and 15 minutes. You’ll want to check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean, you’re golden.
Once baked to perfection, let the loaves cool on a wire rack before you even think about removing them from the pans. I mean, patience is a virtue, right? Just a little longer, and you’ll have a mouthwatering pear bread that might just make you the star of your next gathering.
Pear Bread Substitutions & Variations
After mastering the classic pear bread recipe, you might feel inspired to get a bit creative.
I love swapping out the pecans for walnuts or even chocolate chips for a sweeter touch. If you’re aiming for a healthier twist, try using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose.
For a spicier flavor, add nutmeg or ginger alongside the cinnamon. You can also experiment with different fruits—apples or bananas could work beautifully.
If you prefer a vegan option, substitute the eggs with flaxseed meal and use a plant-based oil.
These variations can elevate your pear bread to a whole new level!
Additional Tips & Notes
While baking pear bread is a delightful experience, keeping a few tips in mind can enhance your results. First, make sure your pears are ripe for maximum sweetness and moisture.
I also recommend using a kitchen scale to measure flour accurately, as too much can lead to a heavy loaf. Don’t overmix the batter; you want it just combined for a light texture.
If you like a touch of spice, consider adding nutmeg or ginger.
Finally, let the bread cool completely before slicing; this helps maintain its structure.
Enjoy your baking adventure, and savor each delicious bite of pear bread!