Homemade Fruit Bread Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup (120ml) milk or orange juice
- 1 cup mixed dried fruits (raisins, sultanas, dried apricots, cranberries)
- 1/2 cup nuts (optional – walnuts, pecans, or almonds)
- Zest of 1 orange (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Stir well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.
- Prepare the Wet Ingredients:
- In another bowl, beat together the sugar and vegetable oil until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract. This will give the bread a lovely aroma and flavor base.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk or orange juice. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. The batter will be thick but should be smooth and free of lumps.
- Add Fruits and Nuts:
- Gently fold in the mixed dried fruits and nuts (if using). If you want to add an extra burst of citrus flavor, mix in the orange zest. Ensure that the fruits and nuts are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Transfer to the Pan:
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top and ensure it’s evenly spread.
- Bake the Bread:
- Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean. If the top starts to brown too quickly, cover it with aluminum foil during the last 15 minutes of baking.
- Cool the Bread:
- Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step ensures the bread sets properly and doesn’t crumble when sliced.
- Serving Suggestions:
- Slice the bread once completely cooled. Fruit bread is delicious on its own or with a spread of butter. For an extra treat, toast a slice and serve it with a dollop of cream cheese or a drizzle of honey.
- Storage:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the fruit bread by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm slices in the toaster before serving.
Tips for Perfect Fruit Bread:
- Fruit Choices: Use a combination of dried fruits such as raisins, cranberries, apricots, or chopped dates. Fresh fruits like apples or bananas can also be added, but they may alter the bread’s moisture level, so adjust the baking time if needed.
- Prevent Sinking: To prevent the dried fruits from sinking to the bottom, lightly coat them with a tablespoon of flour before folding them into the batter.
- Flavor Variations: Add a teaspoon of almond or rum extract for a different flavor profile. You can also mix in shredded coconut for added texture.
- Healthier Option: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, and use honey or maple syrup instead of sugar to make a healthier version of this bread.
This fruit bread is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy afternoon snack. With its rich, fruity flavor and moist texture, it’s a comforting homemade treat that pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee.
