Pear Bread
Pear Bread offers a moist, tender crumb infused with the delicate sweetness of ripe pears and subtle warming spices. Its comforting flavor makes it perfect for breakfast, snack time, or a cozy afternoon treat, appealing to fruit lovers and those seeking a homemade, flavorful bread.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream the margarine and gradually beat in the sugar.
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time.
- Combine all dry ingredients including flour, salt, baking powder, and nutmeg.
- Add the dry ingredients to the egg mixture, alternating with the yogurt, and mix well.
- Stir in the peeled and sliced pears and vanilla.
- Pour the batter into a buttered 9x5x3-inch loaf pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using butter instead of margarine, and feel free to swap the pears with apples or peaches if desired. If you prefer a lighter version, use Greek yogurt in place of plain yogurt or buttermilk. To enhance the spices, add a pinch of cinnamon along with the nutmeg for a warmer taste. This pear bread is also delightful when served warm with a spread of cream cheese.
Serving Suggestions
Slice the pear bread thickly and serve it as a delightful breakfast treat or afternoon snack. It pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a smear of butter. For an elegant touch, serve alongside a fresh fruit salad or a cup of tea. This recipe is perfect for brunch gatherings or as a comforting dessert option at the end of a meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover pear bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week. You can also freeze slices for up to three months. To reheat, simply place slices in a toaster or microwave for a few seconds until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pear Bread contains roughly 407 calories, with 5g protein, 59g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (21% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1332mg per serving (58% 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 canned or frozen pears instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use canned or frozen pears, but be sure to drain canned pears well or thaw frozen pears and pat them dry before adding them to the batter. This prevents excess moisture from affecting the bread's texture.
How can I tell when the bread is done baking?
To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs attached, the bread is done. If it has wet batter on it, bake for an additional 5-10 minutes and check again.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the blend contains xanthan gum or add it separately to help with the bread's structure. The baking time may vary slightly, so keep an eye on it while baking.
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).