Sugar Plum Bread
A moist, spiced bread with sweet plum flavor and crunchy pecan bits, perfect for cozy mornings, tea time, or holiday gatherings with a warm, inviting aroma.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Combine sugar, flour, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, and salt in a large bowl; set aside.
- In a separate bowl, mix eggs, vegetable oil, and plum baby food.
- Stir the liquid mixture into the dry ingredients until just moistened.
- Fold in chopped pecans.
- Divide the batter evenly between 2 ungreased loaf pans.
- Bake for 45 to 55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the bread to cool in the pans before removing.
Tips & Substitutions
For a moister bread, consider adding a small amount of applesauce or yogurt to the batter. If you don't have pumpkin pie spice, a combination of cinnamon and nutmeg works well as a substitute. You can also replace the pecans with walnuts or omit the nuts entirely for a nut-free version. Ensure not to overmix the batter to keep the bread tender.
Serving Suggestions
Sugar Plum Bread is delightful on its own, but you can elevate it by serving with a dollop of cream cheese spread or a drizzle of Heavenly Frosting for added sweetness. Pair it with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon snack. It also makes a lovely addition to a brunch spread or holiday table, complementing dishes like Cajun Seafood Bisque.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or lightly toast them for a warm treat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sugar Plum Bread contains roughly 664 calories, with 5g protein, 56g carbohydrates, and 51g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (80% of the Daily Value), iron (42% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (40% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1646mg per serving (72% 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 plums instead of baby food?
Yes, you can use fresh plums. Simply puree them until smooth and measure out one cup. Keep in mind that fresh plums may have a different moisture content, so adjust the oil slightly if necessary to maintain the batter's consistency.
What can I substitute for vegetable oil?
You can substitute vegetable oil with canola oil or melted coconut oil for a different flavor profile. Alternatively, for a healthier option, use unsweetened applesauce or Greek yogurt in a 1:1 ratio, which will also add moisture to the bread.
How can I tell if the bread is done baking?
To check if the bread is done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the bread is ready. If it has wet batter on it, continue baking and check again in 5-minute increments until done.
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).