Spiced Pear Bread Recipe

There’s something magical about the warmth of spices mingling with the natural sweetness of pears. This Spiced Pear Bread is an invitation to cozy moments, offering rich flavors and a moist, tender crumb. If you’re looking for a unique twist on classic quick bread, this recipe will not disappoint. Let’s get straight into it.

Ingredients: The Essentials

The beauty of this recipe lies in the simplicity and quality of the ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to bring this spiced pear bread to life:

• 2 ripe pears (preferably Bosc or Anjou for their firm texture and natural sweetness)
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp ground nutmeg
• ¼ tsp ground ginger
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed (dark brown adds depth)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ cup sour cream (alternatively, Greek yogurt for a tangy twist)
• ¼ cup milk (use whole milk for extra richness)
• 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional but highly recommended for added texture)

The Process: Simple, Yet Rewarding

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan

Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or cooking spray. You can also line it with parchment paper for easy removal—especially important if you want your slices to look pristine.

Step 2: Prepare the Pears

Peel, core, and chop the pears into small cubes. A firm pear like Bosc or Anjou holds up better during baking, ensuring your bread doesn’t turn soggy. The chunks should be small enough to distribute evenly throughout the bread but large enough to deliver a juicy bite.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Whisk them together to ensure the spices are evenly distributed. These spices, along with the pears, are the heart of the flavor profile, so don’t skimp on them.

Step 4: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial because it helps create the tender crumb of the bread. The air whipped into the butter will hold moisture and give your loaf structure.

Step 5: Add the Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract. This step builds the foundation for flavor—rich, smooth, and aromatic.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually fold in the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the sour cream (or Greek yogurt) and milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients. The sour cream adds moisture and helps the bread rise while giving it a slight tang.

Step 7: Incorporate the Pears and Nuts

Once the batter comes together, gently fold in the pears and nuts (if using). The pears will soften and release their juices during baking, keeping the bread moist while adding natural sweetness. The nuts will provide a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender loaf.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 55 to 65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Every oven is different, so start checking around the 55-minute mark.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This step is key—removing it too early may cause the bread to break apart. Once fully cooled, slice it up and serve.

Tips for Success

• Pears: Choose pears that are firm but ripe. Overripe pears can release too much moisture and turn the bread mushy.
• Spices: The balance of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger is what elevates this bread. Don’t skip any of them.
• Nuts: Adding walnuts or pecans gives the bread an extra texture. They’re optional, but highly recommended for that added depth of flavor and crunch.
• Storage: This bread stays fresh for up to 4 days at room temperature. You can also freeze it for up to a month—just make sure it’s wrapped tightly.

Why This Recipe Works

The balance of pears and spices brings a comforting, fall-inspired flavor that’s both rich and subtle. The butter and sour cream ensure the bread is wonderfully moist, while the light spicing makes each bite feel like a warm hug. Whether you’re baking it for yourself or sharing it with others, this Spiced Pear Bread is a timeless treat that never disappoints.