Oh, let me tell you about my favorite fruit and nut loaf! This delightful loaf is not only a treat for your taste buds, but it’s also packed with nutritious goodness. I love how versatile it is—whether I’m enjoying it as a quick breakfast or a satisfying snack during the day, it never disappoints. The combination of mixed dried fruits and crunchy nuts creates a beautiful texture that keeps me coming back for more. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up! Just a few simple ingredients, and you’ve got yourself a wholesome loaf that’s perfect for sharing with friends or savoring all by yourself. Trust me, once you try this fruit and nut loaf, you’ll find yourself making it again and again!
Ingredients List
- 2 cups mixed dried fruits (raisins, apricots, cranberries)
- 1 cup mixed nuts (walnuts, almonds, pecans, roughly chopped)
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk or plant-based milk
How to Prepare Fruit and Nut Loaf
Preheat and Prepare
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is so important because it helps the loaf rise perfectly! While that’s heating up, grab your loaf pan and give it a good greasing with a bit of vegetable oil or butter. Trust me, this makes it so much easier to remove the loaf later. You can also line the bottom with parchment paper for an extra layer of insurance against sticking. We want a smooth, beautiful slice, right?
Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine your whole wheat flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. I usually take a whisk and give it a good stir, breaking up any lumps and ensuring everything is well mixed. This step is crucial because it helps distribute the baking powder evenly throughout the flour. We want our loaf to rise evenly, so don’t skip this part!
Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the honey (or maple syrup if you prefer), vegetable oil, eggs, and milk until it’s all blended and smooth. I love the way the honey adds a touch of sweetness! Make sure there are no clumps of egg left—this is your wet mixture, and we want it silky smooth.
Combine Wet and Dry
Now it’s time to bring everything together! Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Gently fold them together using a spatula or wooden spoon just until combined. Be careful not to overmix; it’s okay if there are a few lumps. Finally, fold in your mixed dried fruits and nuts. This is where the magic happens—every bite will be a delightful mix of flavors!
Baking Instructions
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, spreading it out evenly. Pop it in the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Oh, the smell wafting through your kitchen will be heavenly! Once it’s done, let the loaf cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling period is essential for the loaf to set properly, making slicing a breeze!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the tasty part—you’ll be glad to know that each slice of this fruit and nut loaf offers a nutritious boost! Keep in mind that these values are estimates based on standard ingredient brands and quantities, but they give you a solid idea of what you’re enjoying:
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 10g
- Protein: 4g
This loaf is not only delicious but also a great way to fuel your day with wholesome ingredients. Enjoy guilt-free, knowing you’re treating yourself to something nutritious!
Tips for Success
To make your fruit and nut loaf truly shine, here are some of my favorite tips! First off, don’t skip the greasing and lining of your loaf pan—trust me, it makes a world of difference when you’re trying to remove that glorious loaf! If you want to switch things up, feel free to experiment with different nuts and dried fruits; I’ve found that using a mix of walnuts and dried cherries is a game changer. And here’s a little secret: if you want a bit of extra moisture, try adding a mashed banana or some unsweetened applesauce to the batter. Just remember, the key is to fold the ingredients gently to keep that lovely texture. Oh, and if you’re short on time, you can make mini loaves—just adjust the baking time, and you’ll have adorable little treats in no time!
Variations of Fruit and Nut Loaf
If you’re like me and love to experiment in the kitchen, you’ll be thrilled to know that this fruit and nut loaf is incredibly versatile! You can switch up the dried fruits based on what you have on hand—try adding some chopped dates or dried figs for a richer sweetness. For the nuts, consider using pistachios or hazelnuts for a delightful crunch. Feeling adventurous? A sprinkle of nutmeg or ginger can add a lovely warmth that pairs beautifully with the cinnamon. You can even toss in a handful of dark chocolate chips for a little indulgence! Just remember, the sky’s the limit when it comes to customizing this loaf, so let your taste buds lead the way!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your fruit and nut loaf properly is key to keeping it fresh and delicious! Once it’s completely cool, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. This will help retain its moisture and keep it from drying out. You can store it at room temperature for about 2-3 days, but if you want to keep it longer, pop it in the fridge where it will last up to a week.
Now, if you’ve frozen some slices for later, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to enjoy, you can reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or if you prefer a little crispy edge, pop them in a toaster or toaster oven for a few minutes. The goal is to warm them gently without losing that delightful texture. Enjoy every bite, my friend!
FAQ Section
Can I use fresh fruit instead of dried fruit?
While fresh fruit is delicious, it contains more moisture than dried fruit, which can affect the texture of the loaf. If you want to experiment, you might need to adjust the liquid ingredients or reduce the baking time. Dried fruit really is the star here for that chewy sweetness!
How do I know when my fruit and nut loaf is done?
Great question! You’ll want to keep an eye on the baking time—around 45-50 minutes is usually perfect. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, it’s ready to come out of the oven. If it’s still wet, give it a few more minutes.
Can I make this loaf gluten-free?
Absolutely! If you need a gluten-free option, simply swap the whole wheat flour for a gluten-free blend. Just make sure your baking powder is also gluten-free. The texture might vary a bit, but it’ll still taste fantastic!
How can I add more flavor to my fruit and nut loaf?
There are so many fun ways to amp up the flavor! Consider adding a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of nutmeg along with the cinnamon. You could also fold in some citrus zest—like orange or lemon—for a bright, fresh taste that complements the fruits beautifully.
Can I freeze the fruit and nut loaf?
Yes, you can! Just slice the loaf first and wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. It’ll keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready for a slice, just thaw it in the fridge overnight or pop it in the microwave for a quick warm-up!