Candied Fruit Bread
A moist, flavorful bread packed with candied fruit and nuts, perfect for festive occasions or as a sweet treat with coffee or tea.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sift together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Combine eggs, milk, and salad oil.
- Add to the flour mixture, beating well. Stir in 1 cup candied fruit and 1/2 cup nuts.
- Turn into a greased loaf pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 50 minutes or until done.
- Remove from pan and cool.
- Wrap and store overnight.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using buttermilk instead of regular milk. You can also swap out half of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour for added nutrition. If you don't have nuts on hand, feel free to omit them or substitute with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin for a different texture. Ensure the candied fruit is chopped into small pieces for even distribution throughout the loaf.
Serving Suggestions
This candied fruit bread is delightful on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a spread of cream cheese or a dollop of whipped butter. Serve it alongside a warm beverage like coffee or tea for a comforting breakfast or snack. For a festive touch, consider serving it during holiday gatherings or alongside dishes like Pumpkin-Spice Pancakes for a delightful brunch spread.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, place it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat, slice and warm in a toaster or microwave for a few seconds until just heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Candied Fruit Bread contains roughly 250 calories, with 5g protein, 47g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1222mg per serving (53% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh fruit instead of candied fruit?
While fresh fruit can be used, it may alter the texture and moisture of the bread. If using fresh fruit, reduce the milk slightly and consider adding a bit of sugar to balance the tartness. Keep in mind that fresh fruit will not provide the same sweetness or shelf stability as candied fruit.
What can I do if my bread is too dense?
If your bread turns out dense, it may be due to overmixing the batter. To prevent this, mix just until the ingredients are combined. Additionally, ensure your baking powder is fresh and hasn't expired, as this could affect the rise of your bread.
Can I add spices to this recipe?
Absolutely! Adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg can enhance the flavor profile of your candied fruit bread. Start with 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg, adjusting to your taste. This can create a warm, inviting aroma and complement the sweetness of the candied fruit.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).