Baked Pear Bread with Almond Glaze

Why Make This Recipe

Baked Pear Bread with Almond Glaze is a delightful treat that brings together the sweet flavors of ripe pears and the nutty richness of almonds. This recipe is perfect for those looking to try something new in the kitchen while keeping it simple and wholesome. The combination of soft, moist bread filled with juicy pears and topped with a luscious almond glaze makes for an excellent breakfast option, snack, or dessert.

One of the best aspects of this recipe is its versatility. You can enjoy it plain, spread with a bit of butter, or even topped with some cream cheese for an extra special treat. It’s also a great way to use up any leftover pears you may have on hand. Moreover, this dish is easy to make and doesn’t require fancy equipment. All you need is a loaf pan, a few mixing bowls, and a willingness to enjoy a bit of baking fun!

How to Make Baked Pear Bread with Almond Glaze

Making Baked Pear Bread with Almond Glaze is quite straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you create this delicious loaf.

Ingredients

To get started, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 4 ripe pears, peeled and diced
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup almonds, chopped
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
• 1-2 tablespoons almond milk (for glaze)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing your loaf pan will prevent the bread from sticking after baking.

2. Prepare the fruit: In a large bowl, mix the diced pears with cinnamon and honey. Let it sit while you prepare the other ingredients.

3. Mix dry ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

4. Cream the butter and sugar: In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar together until fluffy. This will add air to your bread and make it lighter.

5. Add eggs and flavor: Next, add the eggs and vanilla extract to the butter and sugar mixture. Mix until everything is combined nicely.

6. Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined.

7. Fold in pears and almonds: Carefully fold in the pear mixture and the chopped almonds to the batter. This adds lots of flavors and texture to the bread.

8. Pour the batter into the pan: Pour the batter into the greased loaf pan. Smooth the top with a spatula for even baking.

9. Bake: Bake in your preheated oven for 60-70 minutes. Check if it’s done by inserting a toothpick into the middle; it should come out clean.

10. Make the glaze: While the bread is baking, you can prepare the almond glaze. In a small bowl, mix the powdered sugar with 1 to 2 tablespoons of almond milk until you achieve a smooth consistency.

11. Cool and glaze: Once the bread is done, let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. After it has completely cooled, drizzle your almond glaze over the top.

Now your Baked Pear Bread with Almond Glaze is ready to be enjoyed!

How to Serve Baked Pear Bread with Almond Glaze

Serving this bread is quite enjoyable and can be tailored to your taste. You can serve slices of the Baked Pear Bread on their own, allowing the combination of flavors to shine. If you’re looking for something a bit more decadent, consider adding a pat of butter to each slice, letting it melt slightly.

Alternatively, for an extra touch of sweetness, you can serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. This makes it a fantastic dessert option.

Another idea is to pair the bread with a cup of coffee or tea for breakfast or an afternoon snack. Adding fresh fruit, like berries or slices of banana, can also complement the flavors nicely.

How to Store Baked Pear Bread with Almond Glaze

To keep your Baked Pear Bread fresh, it’s essential to store it properly. Once the bread is completely cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This will help retain its moisture and keep it from drying out.

It’s best to store your bread at room temperature if you’ll be eating it within a few days. However, if you want to keep it longer, you can place it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just be mindful that refrigeration might slightly alter its texture, making it a bit denser.

If you’ve made a larger batch or wish to store it for even longer, consider freezing it. Slice the bread and wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can take out a slice whenever you want a quick treat, and it will keep well in the freezer for up to three months.

Tips to Make Baked Pear Bread with Almond Glaze

1. Use ripe pears: For the best flavor, ensure your pears are fully ripe. They should be slightly soft to the touch for optimal sweetness and moisture.

2. Don’t skip the glaze: The almond glaze adds a wonderful finish to the bread. Make sure to drizzle it generously over the cool loaf for a perfect sweet touch.

3. Customize with spices: If you enjoy more flavor, feel free to add other spices like nutmeg or ginger to the batter. This will enhance the overall profile of the bread.

4. Check for doneness: Since oven temperatures can vary, keep an eye on your bread as it bakes. If it’s browning too quickly, you might need to lower the temperature slightly.

5. Let it cool completely: Before glazing, ensure that the bread has cooled adequately. This helps the glaze set better and prevents it from melting all over.

Variation

While this recipe is delicious as is, there are a few ways to mix it up! You could try adding chocolate chips to the batter for a sweet twist. Dried fruits like raisins or cranberries can also be a tasty addition, lending their unique flavors to the bread.

If you don’t have almonds on hand, walnuts or pecans can be substituted for a different nut flavor. Additionally, for a healthier twist, you might consider using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour.

If you want a fresher taste, experiment with citrus zest, like lemon or orange, to brighten up the flavors.

FAQs

1. Can I use canned pears in this recipe?

Yes, you can use canned pears in a pinch. Just make sure to drain and rinse them thoroughly before dicing and mixing them into the batter.

2. Can I make this bread gluten-free?

Absolutely! You can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to substitute the regular all-purpose flour. Be sure to check that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

3. How can I tell when the bread is done baking?

A good test is to insert a toothpick into the center of the bread. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the bread is done. If it has wet batter on it, let the bread bake for a few more minutes and check again.

4. What can I use instead of almond milk for the glaze?

If you don’t have almond milk, you can use any milk you have on hand, such as cow’s milk or soy milk. The glaze will still turn out tasty!

5. How do I know if my pears are ripe enough for baking?

Ripe pears should feel slightly soft at the neck when gently pressed. They should have a sweet aroma and a smooth skin without blemishes. If they are too firm, let them sit out at room temperature for a few days until they ripen.

In conclusion, Baked Pear Bread with Almond Glaze is a delightful recipe that anyone can enjoy making and sharing. It’s simple, delicious, and perfect for various occasions, whether you’re treating yourself or impressing guests. Give it a go and savor the wonderful taste and aroma that this homemade bread brings to your kitchen!

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