Pear Nut Bread
A moist, flavorful pear nut bread packed with cinnamon and lemon zest, perfect for breakfast, snack, or teatime, offering a delightful combination of sweetness and nutty crunch.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Coarsely grate the pears to make 2 cups.
- Beat the eggs until light and fluffy.
- Add oil, sugar, lemon peel, vanilla, and grated pears to the beaten eggs and mix thoroughly.
- Sift together the dry ingredients: salt, baking soda, baking powder, sugar, cinnamon, and flour.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the pear mixture, mixing until well blended.
- Stir in the chopped nuts.
- Pour the batter into three greased medium loaf pans.
- Bake in a 325°F (160°C) oven for 50 to 60 minutes until done.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the wet ingredients. If you prefer a healthier version, substitute half of the oil with unsweetened applesauce. You can also replace some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added nutrition. Remember to choose ripe Bartlett pears for optimal sweetness and moisture.
Serving Suggestions
This Pear Nut Bread is delightful served warm with a pat of butter or cream cheese. It pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee for breakfast or an afternoon snack. For a more indulgent treat, consider topping it with a drizzle of Wonder Frosting or enjoying it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert.
Storage & Reheating
After the bread has cooled completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and store it at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze individual slices in an airtight container for up to three months. Reheat slices in a toaster or microwave until warmed through, enhancing the flavors.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pear Nut Bread contains roughly 622 calories, with 8g protein, 69g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is a good source of protein (16% of the Daily Value), calcium (14% of the Daily Value), and potassium (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 997mg per serving (43% 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 a different type of pear?
Yes, you can use other varieties of pears, such as Bosc or Anjou, which will also work well. Just ensure they are ripe for the best flavor. The texture might slightly vary, but the sweetness will remain delicious.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the blend includes xanthan gum for the best structure and texture. Additionally, check that all other ingredients, like baking powder, are gluten-free.
How can I enhance the flavor of the nuts?
To enhance the flavor of the nuts, toast them lightly in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until fragrant. This step brings out their natural oils and intensifies their taste, making your Pear Nut Bread even more delicious.
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).