Irish Pear Loaf
A moist, flavorful pear loaf with warm spices and a tender crumb, perfect for teatime or dessert, appealing to fruit lovers and those craving comforting baked treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat sugar and vegetable oil in a large bowl.
- Add eggs, milk, and vanilla; beat until well combined.
- Sift together flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the sugar mixture and beat until blended.
- Stir in chopped ripe peeled pears using a spoon.
- Pour batter into a greased loaf pan and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of white sugar. If you don't have vegetable oil, melted coconut oil or applesauce can be great substitutes. Make sure your pears are ripe for the best sweetness and moisture. You can also add nuts or dried fruits for added texture and flavor. To enhance the spices, consider adding a pinch of allspice or cloves.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices of Irish Pear Loaf warm or at room temperature, perhaps with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. For a twist, try serving it alongside Nutritious Fudge for a delightful dessert spread. You can also enjoy it as a breakfast treat with butter or jam.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Irish Pear Loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing. To reheat, simply slice and warm in the microwave for a few seconds or toast lightly for added texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Irish Pear Loaf contains roughly 76 calories, with 1g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1497mg per serving (65% 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 other fruits instead of pears?
Yes, you can substitute pears with apples, bananas, or even peaches. Just make sure the fruit is ripe and adjust the sugar slightly if using sweeter fruits. Each fruit will impart a different flavor profile, adding variety to the loaf.
What can I do if my loaf is too dry?
If your Irish Pear Loaf turns out dry, it may be due to overbaking. Always check for doneness a few minutes before the recommended time. To add moisture, you can serve it with a drizzle of honey or a light syrup, or enjoy it with a spread of cream cheese.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily make this recipe gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure the blend contains xanthan gum for proper texture. The baking time may vary slightly, so keep an eye on the loaf as it bakes.
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).