Easy Fruit Bread
Are you in the mood for a simple yet delightful treat that combines the wholesome goodness of dried fruits and a hint of cinnamon? This Easy Fruit Bread is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family brunch, a snack for the kids after school, or a sweet addition to your next potluck. I’ll never forget the first time I baked this—my kitchen was filled with a warm aroma that felt like home. Each bite brings a gentle sweetness and a hint of crunch, making it a beloved recipe that you’ll want to share.
Why you’ll love this dish
This Easy Fruit Bread is a fantastic recipe to try at home because it’s quick, budget-friendly, and incredibly versatile. You can whip it up on a weeknight and have it ready for breakfast the next morning or enjoy it as a delightful afternoon snack. Kids adore it, and it’s a fantastic way to incorporate dried fruits into their diet without them noticing. It also makes for a thoughtful homemade gift when wrapped in some pretty packaging!
"I made this fruit bread for our weekend brunch, and it was a huge hit! The kids couldn’t get enough of it!" – Emily, a satisfied home baker.
The cooking process explained
Making Easy Fruit Bread is a straightforward process. You’ll start with mixing your dry ingredients, then blend in the wet ones before folding in all the delicious fruits and nuts. In just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delightful batter ready to bake, and what comes out is nothing short of heavenly!
What you’ll need
Gather these items to get started:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup mixed dried fruits (raisins, cranberries, etc.)
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Feel free to swap the mixed dried fruits based on your preferences or what you have on hand! Diced apples or chopped apricots can make lovely additions.
Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and sugar until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, mix the milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until blended.
- Pour the wet mixture into your dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined.
- Carefully fold in the dried fruits and nuts if you’re using them.
- Transfer the batter to your greased loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center.
- Once baked, let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Best ways to enjoy it
Easy Fruit Bread can be enjoyed in many ways. Slice it thick, slather on some butter or cream cheese, and serve it alongside a cup of coffee for a delightful breakfast. It also pairs beautifully with yogurt and fresh fruit for a healthy brunch. For a festive touch, consider sprinkling a light glaze of powdered sugar icing over the top!
Keeping leftovers fresh
To keep your Easy Fruit Bread at its best, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing slices. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a zip-top bag for up to three months.
Helpful cooking tips
Here are a few tips to ensure your Easy Fruit Bread turns out perfect:
- Make sure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh to guarantee a good rise.
- Don’t overmix the batter; it’s okay if it’s a little lumpy.
- Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or allspice for an extra flavor punch.
Creative twists
Feel free to give this fruit bread your personal touch! You could add orange zest for a citrusy brightness, swap the nuts for seeds if you have nut allergies, or even layer in some chocolate chips for a sweet surprise. This recipe is super flexible!
Common questions
-
How long does it take to prepare?
Preparation and baking combined take about one hour. -
What can I substitute for dried fruits?
You can use fresh fruits like mashed bananas or applesauce, but be sure to adjust the wet ingredients accordingly. -
Can I make it gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, ensuring that it’s suitable for baking.
With its rich flavors and tender texture, this Easy Fruit Bread is bound to become a favorite in your home. Whether you enjoy it fresh from the oven or toasted the next day, each slice is a treat waiting to be enjoyed. Happy baking!
Easy Fruit Bread
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 cup sugar
Wet Ingredients
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Add-ins
- 1 cup mixed dried fruits (raisins, cranberries, etc.)
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and sugar until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, mix the milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until blended.
- Pour the wet mixture into your dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined.
- Carefully fold in the dried fruits and nuts if you are using them.
- Transfer the batter to your greased loaf pan and smooth the top.
Baking
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center.
- Once baked, let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
