North Carolina Bishops Bread
North Carolina Bishop's Bread is a rich, moist fruit and nut cake featuring chocolate chips, dates, cherries, and nuts. Its sweet, fruity flavor makes it perfect for special occasions or as a comforting treat. The bread's dense texture and vibrant flavors appeal to those who enjoy decadent baked goods.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine eggs and sugar in a mixing bowl and beat well.
- Sift together flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl.
- Add the sifted dry ingredients to the egg mixture and stir until blended.
- Stir in the dates, maraschino cherries, chocolate chips, and nuts.
- Pour the batter into a greased baking pan.
- Bake in a 325°F (163°C) oven for 1 1/4 hours.
- Let the bread stand overnight before slicing.
Tips & Substitutions
For added moisture, consider using fresh or dried figs in place of dates. You can also substitute walnuts for pecans if that's what you have on hand. Make sure to beat the eggs and sugar until light and fluffy for a better texture. If you prefer a richer flavor, try using dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet. Also, remember to let the bread rest overnight for the best flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This delightful bread is perfect served as a dessert or a sweet treat with coffee or tea. Consider pairing it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. It also makes a wonderful addition to a brunch spread alongside dishes like Louise'S Cornbread or Nut Muffins, offering a sweet contrast to savory items.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover North Carolina Bishops Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, slice the bread and warm it in a toaster or oven at a low temperature until just heated through, ensuring it retains its moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of North Carolina Bishops Bread contains roughly 392 calories, with 8g protein, 61g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is a good source of protein (15% of the Daily Value), calcium (15% of the Daily Value), and potassium (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 855mg per serving (37% 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 make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can make North Carolina Bishops Bread ahead of time. It actually improves in flavor when allowed to sit overnight. Just be sure to store it properly in an airtight container to maintain freshness. If you want to prepare the batter in advance, you can refrigerate it for a few hours before baking.
What can I substitute for maraschino cherries?
If you're looking for a substitute for maraschino cherries, consider using dried cherries or cranberries for a similar sweetness and texture. You could also use fresh cherries, though you'll need to pit and chop them. Just keep in mind that fresh cherries will create a slightly different flavor profile and moisture content.
Is it possible to make this bread gluten-free?
Yes, you can make North Carolina Bishops Bread gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure that the blend includes a binding agent like xanthan gum, which helps replicate the structure provided by gluten. This adjustment should yield a deliciously moist and flavorful bread even without traditional flour.
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).