Summer Fruit Bread
A moist, flavorful fruit bread combining cream cheese, butter, and fresh fruit cocktail, perfect for summer gatherings or a sweet breakfast treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream together the butter, cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Gradually fold in the flour and baking powder.
- Gently fold in the drained fruit cocktail and chopped nuts.
- Pour batter into loaf pans and bake at 325°F for 35 to 45 minutes for small loaves or about 1 hour for larger pans.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, ensure your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature before creaming. You can substitute the fruit cocktail with fresh seasonal fruits like peaches or berries for a different flavor profile. If you're looking for added sweetness, consider folding in some chocolate chips or using a flavored cream cheese. Adjust the sugar based on the sweetness of the fruits used.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delightful bread warm or at room temperature, sliced with a smear of butter or cream cheese. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea for breakfast or brunch. For a festive touch, you can serve it alongside a fruit compote or plain yogurt. It also complements sweet treats like Marshmallow Pecan Candies for a lovely dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Summer Fruit Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm slices in the oven for a few minutes until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Summer Fruit Bread contains roughly 623 calories, with 7g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is a good source of calcium (14% of the Daily Value), protein (13% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (13% 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 gluten-free?
Yes, you can make Summer Fruit Bread gluten-free by substituting the plain flour with a certified gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that all other ingredients are also gluten-free, and adjust the baking time as needed since gluten-free batters may require slight modifications for texture.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make this recipe dairy-free, replace the cream cheese and butter with dairy-free alternatives such as coconut cream and vegan butter. Be sure to check labels for any added ingredients. The flavor may vary slightly, but the bread will still be delicious and moist.
Can I add other fruits to this recipe?
Absolutely! You can customize your Summer Fruit Bread by adding other fruits like diced apples, shredded zucchini, or even dried fruits like cranberries and raisins. Just be mindful of the moisture content, as adding too much liquid can affect the baking time and texture.
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).