Orange-Raisin-Pecan Bread
A moist, flavorful loaf with bright orange zest, sweet raisins, and crunchy pecans, perfect for breakfast or teatime, appealing to fruit and nut lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Combine orange juice, water, orange peel, sugar, melted butter, and beaten egg in a bowl. Mix just until blended.
- Pour the batter into a greased 9 x 5-inch loaf pan.
- Bake for 50 to 60 minutes or until the top is browned and a pick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the bread in the pan for 10 minutes.
- Wrap in plastic wrap or foil before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider adding chopped walnuts or swapping pecans for a richer flavor. If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the sugar to 3/4 cup. Ensure the butter is cooled slightly before mixing with the other wet ingredients to prevent curdling the egg. Don't overmix the batter to keep the bread tender. You can also substitute the raisins with dried cranberries for a different taste.
Serving Suggestions
This bread is delightful served warm with a pat of butter or cream cheese spread. Pair it with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy breakfast or snack. It also complements a light salad, such as a Cranberry Salad(Good), making it a versatile option for brunch gatherings. Slice it up for an afternoon treat or as part of a holiday spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Orange-Raisin-Pecan Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, and freeze for up to three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm slices in a toaster or microwave for a few seconds until just heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Orange-Raisin-Pecan Bread contains roughly 4207 calories, with 84g protein, 567g carbohydrates, and 191g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (180% of the Daily Value), protein (168% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (156% of the Daily Value). 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 orange juice instead of bottled?
Absolutely! Fresh orange juice will enhance the flavor of the bread and provide a brighter, more vibrant taste. Just ensure to strain it to remove any pulp, if desired, for a smoother batter.
How can I make this bread gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the blend contains xanthan gum or add it separately to help with the bread's texture.
Can I add other fruits to this recipe?
Yes, you can incorporate other dried fruits such as chopped apricots or figs. Just make sure to adjust the total amount of dried fruit to maintain the proper moisture balance in the loaf.
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).