Cranberry-Pear Loaf
A moist, flavorful cranberry-pear loaf with hints of ginger and nuts, perfect for breakfast or a cozy dessert, appealing to fruit and bread lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Grease the bottom of an 8 x 4-inch loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, combine the cranberry bread mix, water, oil, egg, chopped pears, chopped nuts, and ground ginger.
- Stir by hand 50 to 75 strokes until dry particles are moistened.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
- Bake for 70 to 80 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool for 15 minutes in the pan, then remove and cool completely.
- Wrap the loaf tightly in foil for storage.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pinch of nutmeg to the batter. If you don't have chopped nuts, you can substitute with seeds or omit them entirely for a nut-free version. You can also experiment with different fruits like apples or cranberries for added texture and taste. For a healthier twist, use whole wheat cranberry bread mix or a sugar substitute like stevia.
Serving Suggestions
Slice the cranberry-pear loaf and serve it warm or at room temperature. It pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a smear of cream cheese for breakfast or as a snack. For a delightful dessert, serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or with a side of Fruity Coolers to enhance the fruity flavors. You can enjoy it with a cup of tea or coffee as well.
Storage & Reheating
Once cooled, wrap the cranberry-pear loaf tightly in foil or plastic wrap to keep it fresh. It can be stored at room temperature for up to three days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing it; just ensure it’s well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cranberry-Pear Loaf contains roughly 592 calories, with 2g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 60g fat.
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 pears instead of canned?
Yes, fresh pears can be used in place of canned pears. Just make sure to peel, core, and chop them into similar-sized pieces as the canned ones. You may need to adjust the moisture slightly, so add a little more water if the mixture seems too dry.
How do I know when the loaf is done baking?
The loaf is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. If it comes out with wet batter, continue baking for a few more minutes and check again. The baking time may vary based on your oven, so keep an eye on it.
Can I add spices or other flavorings to this recipe?
Absolutely! In addition to ground ginger, you can add cinnamon, allspice, or a hint of cloves to enhance the flavor. Just start with a small amount, such as 1/4 teaspoon, and adjust to your preference. A touch of citrus zest, like lemon or orange, can also brighten up the flavors.
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).