Pear and Walnut Bread Recipe

There’s something truly special about a loaf that combines tender, juicy fruit with the satisfying crunch of nuts, and the Pear and Walnut Bread delivers all that and more in every bite. This bread is wonderfully moist, subtly spiced, and bursting with the mellow sweetness of ripe pears complemented perfectly by toasted walnuts. It’s a cozy treat that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day and an easy way to brighten up breakfast, snack time, or even a light dessert. If you’re looking for a loaf that balances texture, flavor, and heartwarming comfort, Pear and Walnut Bread is an absolute must-try.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is the key to this bread’s success, but don’t worry — it’s all wonderfully simple! Each ingredient plays its own important role in crafting layers of flavor, adding moisture, and infusing the loaf with that irresistible aroma.

• Ripe pears: Using fresh, juicy pears lends natural sweetness and moisture to keep the bread from drying out.
• Vegetable oil: This keeps the bread tender without overpowering the other flavors.
• Brown and granulated sugars: A blend of sugars gives the bread a balanced sweetness and helps with caramelized color.
• Eggs: They bind everything together and add richness to the batter.
• Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla deepens the flavor profile for that “homemade” feel.
• All-purpose flour: The foundation providing structure to hold all the delicious bits together.
• Baking powder and baking soda: These leavening agents ensure the bread rises beautifully and stays light.
• Spices (cinnamon and nutmeg): Warming spices add cozy notes that pair perfectly with pears.
• Chopped walnuts: Crunchy bits that contrast the soft crumb and add a nutty aroma.
• Raisins or dried cranberries (optional): Add bursts of chewy sweetness if you like a little extra texture and flavor.

How to Make Pear and Walnut Bread

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

First, preheat your oven to a toasty 350°F (175°C). Grab a 9×5-inch loaf pan and either grease it well or line it with parchment paper. This step ensures your bread won’t stick and will come out cleanly once baked, setting you up for success from the very start.

Step 2: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, bring together your peeled and diced pears, vegetable oil, brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix these ingredients thoroughly until they form a smooth, cohesive base. The pears make the batter wonderfully juicy, and the sugars start adding that signature sweetness we crave.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk the all-purpose flour with baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and optional nutmeg. This combination not only provides the structure but also infuses the batter with warm spices that perfectly complement the pears.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Gradually fold the dry ingredient mix into the wet ingredients. Take care not to overmix here; just combine everything until you don’t see any streaks of flour. Overmixing can toughen your bread, and nobody wants that!

Step 5: Add Walnuts and Optional Dried Fruit

Now the fun part: gently fold in the chopped walnuts and, if you’re using them, raisins or dried cranberries. They add delightful texture contrasts and bursts of flavor that make every bite interesting.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Pour your batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly. Slip it into the oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The warm aroma filling your kitchen will be irresistible!

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy

Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes so it can firm up a bit, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step prevents sogginess and lets the flavors settle beautifully.

How to Serve Pear and Walnut Bread

Garnishes

For a simple yet inviting presentation, dust a bit of powdered sugar over the slices or spread a thin layer of softened butter to enhance the warmth and richness. A drizzle of honey or a smear of cream cheese also works wonders and adds a touch of elegance.

Side Dishes

Pear and Walnut Bread pairs exceptionally well with a hot cup of tea or freshly brewed coffee for a comforting snack. If you want a fuller experience, serve it alongside a bowl of vanilla yogurt or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to balance the nutty and fruity flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Try toasting slices lightly and topping them with ricotta cheese and a drizzle of honey or fig jam for a sophisticated appetizer. You can also cube the bread and serve it as part of a bread pudding or French toast for a fun twist on classic breakfast favorites.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Pear and Walnut Bread fresh by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or storing it in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay delicious for up to three days, making it great for quick snacks or light breakfasts.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy this bread later, it freezes beautifully. Slice first, wrap individual pieces or the whole loaf in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. This way, you can thaw slices as needed without compromising texture or flavor.

Reheating

To revive the texture and aroma, toast frozen slices lightly or warm them in a 300°F oven for about 10 minutes. This brings back that fresh-baked feeling and lets the walnuts’ fragrance shine through.

FAQs

Can I use canned pears instead of fresh?

While fresh pears are ideal for their texture and flavor, you can use canned pears if you drain them well and pat them dry to avoid adding too much extra moisture to the batter.

Is it okay to substitute walnuts with pecans or other nuts?

Absolutely! Pecans, almonds, or even hazelnuts can be great substitutes and add their own unique flavors and crunch to the Pear and Walnut Bread.

Can I make this bread gluten-free?

Yes, by swapping the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend designed for baking, you can enjoy this bread while accommodating gluten sensitivities. Just be sure to check the other ingredients for gluten.

Why is my bread not rising properly?

Make sure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh because expired leavening agents lose their effectiveness. Also, avoid overmixing the batter, which can deflate the rise.

Can I add more fruit to the recipe?

Definitely! Additional diced fruits like apples or dried fruits can enhance the flavors, but try not to exceed a total of 1 1/2 to 2 cups of fruit to maintain the bread’s structure.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Pear and Walnut Bread recipe sparks your enthusiasm for baking something wholesome and delightful. It’s one of those special treats that feels both comforting and a little indulgent, perfect for sharing or savoring quietly on your own. Give it a try, and watch how easily this loaf becomes a beloved favorite in your kitchen!

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