Fruit Quick Bread
A moist and fruity quick bread with raisins, candied fruit, and walnuts, perfect for breakfast or tea time, appealing to those who love sweet, nutty baked goods.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve raisins in boiling water and soda.
- Let soak for 3 hours or overnight.
- In a large bowl, cream the shortening, eggs, sugar, and vanilla.
- Add flour, baking powder, and salt; mix well.
- Stir in the raisin mixture, candied fruit, and nuts.
- Pour into greased pans.
- Bake at 325°F until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, about 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients. You can substitute dried cranberries or apricots for the raisins, and use coconut oil instead of shortening for a healthier fat option. Keep an eye on the baking time, as ovens can vary; start checking for doneness around 50 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices of this fruit quick bread warm or at room temperature, perfect for breakfast or as a snack. Pair it with a dollop of cream cheese or a smear of butter for extra richness. It also pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee, making it a delightful addition to brunch or afternoon gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover fruit quick bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply slice and warm in the oven or microwave for a few seconds until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fruit Quick Bread contains roughly 3244 calories, with 26g protein, 583g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (75% of the Daily Value), iron (61% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (58% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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?
Using fresh fruit can alter the moisture content of the bread, so if you do, consider reducing the amount of liquid ingredients slightly. Fresh berries or chopped apples can be great alternatives but may require a shorter baking time.
What can I do if I don’t have walnuts?
If you don't have walnuts, you can easily substitute them with pecans, almonds, or even sunflower seeds for a nut-free option. This will still provide a satisfying crunch and enhance the flavor of the bread.
How can I tell when the bread is done baking?
The bread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached. If the top is browning too quickly, you can tent it with aluminum foil to prevent burning while the center continues to bake.
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).