Baked Pear Bread with Almond Glaze

Why Make This Recipe

Baked Pear Bread with Almond Glaze is a delightful treat that brings together the sweetness of ripe pears and the rich flavor of almonds. If you’re looking for a cozy recipe that satisfies your sweet tooth and warms your home with delicious aromas, this is it! The mix of textures, from the soft bread to the crunchy almonds and the sweet glaze, creates a wonderful eating experience. Plus, this dish is fairly easy to prepare, making it perfect for bakers of all levels.

This recipe is fantastic for many occasions. Whether you need a special breakfast, a snack for an afternoon tea, or a dessert to impress your guests, this baked pear bread fits the bill. The use of honey and brown sugar ensures that the bread is naturally sweet, while the pears lend moisture and flavor. The almond glaze adds a finishing touch that makes every slice even more special. Make it for a holiday, a gathering with friends, or just because you want to enjoy something tasty at home.

How to Make Baked Pear Bread with Almond Glaze

Making Baked Pear Bread with Almond Glaze is straightforward. You will need to gather your ingredients and follow a few simple steps. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need and the process to create this delightful loaf.

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: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your loaf pan with butter or cooking spray to ensure that the bread will come out easily after baking.

2. Prepare the Pears: In a large bowl, take the diced pears. Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon and the 1/4 cup of honey. Mix well, and let this sit for a while. This allows the pears to soak up the sweetness of the honey and the flavor of the cinnamon.

3. Mix Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together two cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. This step ensures that the dry ingredients are evenly combined.

4. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate bowl, take 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of brown sugar. Beat together until the mixture is fluffy and light. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes with an electric mixer.

5. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Crack 2 large eggs into the butter-sugar mixture. Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract as well. Mix until all ingredients are well-combined.

6. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Do not overmix, as this could make the bread tough.

7. Fold in the Pears and Almonds: Gently fold the pear mixture and the 1 cup of chopped almonds into the batter. Make sure everything is well-distributed but still moist.

8. Pour and Smooth: Pour the batter into the greased loaf pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top so that it cooks evenly.

9. Bake the Bread: Place the loaf in the preheated oven and bake for 60-70 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when the bread is ready.

10. Prepare the Glaze: While the bread cools, you can prepare the almond glaze. In a small bowl, mix 1/2 cup of powdered sugar with 1-2 tablespoons of almond milk. Stir until smooth.

11. Cool and Glaze: Once the bread cools for about 10 minutes, transfer it to a wire rack. Drizzle the almond glaze over the top of the bread.

12. Enjoy!: Slice the bread and serve. Enjoy every bite of this sweet and nutty delight!

How to Serve Baked Pear Bread with Almond Glaze

Baked Pear Bread with Almond Glaze can be enjoyed in many ways. It’s perfect for breakfast or as a snack with a cup of tea or coffee. Serve it warm for a cozy feel, or let it cool completely if you prefer. A slice topped with butter or cream cheese adds richness and flavor, but it is just as delicious on its own.

For a more elaborate dessert, consider serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. You can also add some fresh fruit on the side, such as berries or a slice of orange, to complement the sweetness of the bread.

If you host a brunch, this pear bread makes a beautiful centerpiece. Arrange slices on a platter or cut small pieces for guests to sample. The glaze adds a lovely finish that will impress everyone.

How to Store Baked Pear Bread with Almond Glaze

Storing Baked Pear Bread is easy. If you manage to have leftovers, keep the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. Make sure it’s completely cool before sealing it to prevent moisture buildup.

If you want to store it for a longer period, you can freeze it. Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or place it in a zip-top freezer bag. It will keep well for about 2-3 months in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or pop it in the microwave for a few seconds to warm it up.

If you prepared the almond glaze separately, store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to use it. Before serving, you may need to give it a quick stir if it thickens slightly.

Tips to Make Baked Pear Bread with Almond Glaze

1. Choose Ripe Pears: The ripeness of the pears plays an important role in the flavor of the bread. Use ripe, sweet pears for the best results. Bartlett or Bosc pears work well for this recipe.

2. Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix gently. Overmixing can lead to a dense bread. Stir just until everything is combined.

3. Check for Doneness: Baking times can vary based on your oven, so start checking your bread around the 55-minute mark. Remember that a toothpick should come out clean if it’s baked through.

4. Customize the Glaze: If you like a thicker glaze, you can add more powdered sugar, adjusting the amount of almond milk until you achieve your desired consistency.

5. Add Nuts or Dried Fruits: Feel free to customize the recipe by adding walnuts or pecans for extra crunch. Dried cranberries or raisins can also add a delightful burst of flavor.

Variation

While this recipe focuses on pears and almonds, feel free to get creative! You can substitute the pears with apples or even diced peaches for a different flavor profile. Adjust the spices to suit your palate. For example, try adding nutmeg along with the cinnamon, or use a blend of spices like allspice or ginger.

If you love chocolate, consider folding in some chocolate chips as well. The combination of chocolate and pear adds a rich decadence that’s hard to resist!

FAQs

What type of pears work best for this recipe?

You can use any type of ripe pears, but Bartlett and Bosc are good choices due to their sweetness and texture. Avoid unripe pears, as they will not soften well during baking.

Can I substitute the honey in this recipe?

Yes, you can replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar if you prefer a different sweetener. The flavor may vary slightly, but it will still be delicious.

How do I know when the bread is done baking?

Use a toothpick to check for doneness. Insert it into the center of the bread; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, your bread is ready. If it comes out wet with batter, it needs more time in the oven.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, but make sure it includes a binding agent like xanthan gum to help the bread hold together.

Is this bread suitable for freezing?

Absolutely! Once cooled, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Just thaw it at room temperature before serving.

How long does this bread last?

The Baked Pear Bread can last at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. If stored in the refrigerator, it can last up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing it.

Baked Pear Bread with Almond Glaze offers a scrumptious way to enjoy pears in a delightful bread form. With its easy preparation, satisfying flavors, and versatility in serving and storing, it’s sure to become a cherished recipe in your home. Happy baking!

Print