Pear Bread
There’s something incredibly special about the aroma of baking bread, and when it’s Pear Bread, it’s even more magical. I remember the first time I tried making this delightful loaf, inspired by my grandmother’s kitchen where fresh pears were always in abundance during the fall. We’d gather around the table, eagerly waiting for the sweet and spiced scent to fill the air, and I can still hear her laughter as we debated who could sneak the first slice. Making Pear Bread has become a cherished tradition in my home, especially as the leaves begin to change. The process of mixing the simple ingredients and watching the loaves rise in the oven feels like a warm embrace. Every bite is a reminder of those cozy moments, making it the perfect treat for family gatherings or a quiet afternoon at home.
Recipe Snapshot
1 hr 5 mins
15 mins
50 mins
Medium
250 kcal
4 g
Vegan, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
10 g
8×4-inch loaf pans
What Sets This Pear Bread Apart
It’s All About the Pears
What truly sets this recipe apart is the use of ripe, juicy pears. The sweetness of the pears melds beautifully with the spices, creating a harmonious balance that’s both comforting and indulgent. When choosing your pears, go for the ripest ones you can find; they’ll add moisture and flavor to the bread, elevating it from ordinary to extraordinary.
A Perfect Fall Treat
As the seasons shift and the air gets crisper, this Pear Bread becomes a staple in my kitchen. It’s perfect for sharing with friends during autumn gatherings or simply enjoying with a cup of tea on a chilly day. The combination of spices like cinnamon and nutmeg creates a warmth that feels reminiscent of fall itself.
Versatile and Customizable
Another reason to love this recipe is its versatility. While I adore the classic version, you can easily customize it to your liking. Feel free to add nuts for an extra crunch or experiment with different spices to suit your palate. This way, every loaf can have its own unique twist!
Easy to Make
This Pear Bread is also incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a batch in no time. It’s perfect for novice bakers or anyone looking to make a quick and delicious treat. All you need is a mixing bowl, a whisk, and a little bit of patience while it bakes.
Great for Gifting
Finally, one of my favorite reasons for making Pear Bread is that it makes a wonderful gift. Whether it’s for a neighbor, a friend, or even as a housewarming present, a loaf of homemade bread wrapped in a simple paper adds a personal touch that store-bought simply can’t match. Plus, who wouldn’t appreciate a freshly baked treat?
Essential Ingredients for Pear Bread
The ingredients for Pear Bread are as simple as they are essential. Each component plays a crucial role in creating the moist, flavorful loaf that we all love. The stars of the show are, of course, the pears, which bring natural sweetness and moisture. The flour, sugar, and eggs provide structure, while the spices add depth and warmth. Together, these ingredients create a balance that is hard to resist.
- 2 cups granulated white sugar: This sweetens the bread and helps create a lovely golden crust.
- 1 cup vegetable or canola oil: For moisture, this keeps the bread tender and soft.
- 3 large eggs: These provide structure and richness to the bread.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Adds a lovely flavor that enhances the overall sweetness.
- 3 cups all-purpose flour: The base of the bread, providing the necessary structure.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the bread rise, giving it a light texture.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Works with the acidic ingredients to create lift.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and a hint of spice that complements the pears.
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg: Another spice that brings a cozy flavor profile.
- 2 to 2½ cups peeled and chopped ripe pears (about 3 medium): These are the star of the bread, offering natural sweetness and moisture.
- 1 cup chopped pecans, optional: For those who love a little crunch and nutty flavor.
Making Pear Bread
Now that we have our ingredients ready, it’s time to dive into the fun part—making Pear Bread. The process is straightforward and enjoyable, allowing you to savor each step as you create this wonderful loaf.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial to ensure your bread bakes evenly. While the oven heats, prepare your loaf pans. Lightly spray two 8×4-inch loaf pans with nonstick spray, making sure every corner is covered so the bread doesn’t stick.
- In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of granulated sugar, 1 cup of vegetable oil, 3 large eggs, and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Whisk these ingredients together until fully combined and the mixture is slightly frothy. This helps incorporate air, which will make your bread fluffy.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and ½ teaspoon of ground nutmeg. Make sure to mix these dry ingredients thoroughly to avoid any clumps, as this ensures an even distribution of flavors in your bread.
- Carefully stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Use a spatula to fold the ingredients gently; be careful not to overmix. Stir just until combined, and you can still see some flour; that’s perfect.
- Next, gently fold in the 2 to 2½ cups of peeled and chopped ripe pears. If you’re using 1 cup of chopped pecans, add them in at this stage too. This is where the magic happens! The pears will add incredible moisture and flavor to the bread.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared loaf pans. You want to fill each pan about two-thirds full. This gives the bread room to rise without overflowing. Smooth the top with a spatula for an even finish.
- Now it’s time to bake! Place the loaf pans in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a loaf comes out clean. Keep an eye on them towards the end; ovens can vary.
- Once baked, allow the loaves to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. This makes it easier to remove them without breaking. After that, transfer the loaves to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is essential, as it allows the crust to stay crisp while the inside remains soft.
- After the loaves have cooled completely, slice and enjoy your homemade Pear Bread. You can serve it plain, with butter, or even a drizzle of honey for an extra special treat!
Things Worth Knowing
- Use ripe pears: The softer and riper your pears are, the more moisture they will add to the bread, making it deliciously tender.
- Don’t overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined to avoid a dense loaf.
- Check for doneness: Always use a toothpick to test the center of the bread. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, you’re good to go.
- Cool properly: Let the bread cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack; this helps prevent a soggy bottom.
Variations to Try
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are plenty of ways to customize your Pear Bread! Here are some fun ideas to switch things up and make this recipe your own.
- Add chocolate chips: Fold in some dark chocolate chips for a decadent twist.
- Incorporate spices: Experiment with other spices like cardamom or allspice for a unique flavor profile.
- Use different nuts: Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds for a different crunch.
- Make mini loaves: Use mini loaf pans for adorable, shareable portions.
- Glaze the top: Drizzle a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and lemon juice over the cooled bread for a sweet finish.
- Try different fruits: Substitute some of the pears with apples or peaches for a fruity makeover.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
- Freezing: You can freeze slices of Pear Bread for later enjoyment. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag.
- Pairing: Serve with cream cheese or whipped butter for an extra treat.
What to Serve With Pear Bread
Wondering how to make the most of your delicious Pear Bread? Here are some fantastic serving suggestions that complement this sweet treat perfectly.
- Breakfast: Serve slices of Pear Bread with a side of fresh fruit and yogurt for a delightful morning meal.
- Brunch gatherings: This bread is perfect for brunch. Pair it with coffee or tea, and it will be a hit among your guests.
- Afternoon snack: Enjoy a slice with your favorite herbal tea for a cozy afternoon pick-me-up.
- Picnics: Pack slices of Pear Bread for a picnic in the park. It travels well and makes for a lovely addition to any picnic spread.
- Seasonal gatherings: This bread is ideal for fall-themed parties or Thanksgiving, where its flavors resonate with the season.
- Storage: Properly store any leftovers at room temperature in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
- Seasonal pairings: Complement with a warm, spiced cider or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert option.
FAQ
Conclusion
Your homemade Pear Bread is not just a recipe; it’s a journey through flavors that encapsulates the essence of home baking. With its moist texture and delightful sweetness, it’s bound to become a family favorite. I encourage you to give it a try, and share it with those you love. You’ll savor the moment as much as the bread itself, and I guarantee it will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Pear Bread
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial to ensure your bread bakes evenly. While the oven heats, prepare your loaf pans. Lightly spray two 8×4-inch loaf pans with nonstick spray, making sure every corner is covered so the bread doesn’t stick.
- In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of granulated sugar, 1 cup of vegetable oil, 3 large eggs, and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Whisk these ingredients together until fully combined and the mixture is slightly frothy. This helps incorporate air, which will make your bread fluffy.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and ½ teaspoon of ground nutmeg. Make sure to mix these dry ingredients thoroughly to avoid any clumps, as this ensures an even distribution of flavors in your bread.
- Carefully stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Use a spatula to fold the ingredients gently; be careful not to overmix. Stir just until combined, and you can still see some flour; that’s perfect.
- Next, gently fold in the 2 to 2½ cups of peeled and chopped ripe pears. If you’re using 1 cup of chopped pecans, add them in at this stage too. This is where the magic happens! The pears will add incredible moisture and flavor to the bread.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared loaf pans. You want to fill each pan about two-thirds full. This gives the bread room to rise without overflowing. Smooth the top with a spatula for an even finish.
- Now it’s time to bake! Place the loaf pans in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a loaf comes out clean. Keep an eye on them towards the end; ovens can vary.
- Once baked, allow the loaves to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. This makes it easier to remove them without breaking. After that, transfer the loaves to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is essential, as it allows the crust to stay crisp while the inside remains soft.
- After the loaves have cooled completely, slice and enjoy your homemade Pear Bread. You can serve it plain, with butter, or even a drizzle of honey for an extra special treat!
Notes
- Tip: Nutritional information does not include the optional pecans.
- Tip: Use ripe pears — the softer the pear, the easier it blends into the batter and adds moisture.
- Tip: If your pears are very juicy, pat them lightly with paper towels before adding to the batter.
- Tip: To lighten-up this bread a little bit, sub half unsweetened applesauce for half of the oil (½ cup oil and ½ cup applesauce).
- Tip: The pecans are optional but add great texture and flavor.
