Baking something fresh and delicious is always a joy, and this fresh pear bread recipe is one of the best for breakfast or dessert. The sweet and fruity flavor of pears makes the loaf wonderfully moist and fluffy, creating a treat that’s perfect any time of day. Whether you choose fresh pears or canned ones, this easy recipe is a fantastic way to add fruit to your meals with minimal effort.
Made with simple ingredients, this pear bread boasts a soft texture that’s reminiscent of your favorite cakes. Unlike many breads that can turn out dry, this loaf stays moist every time it’s baked. The sweet aroma that fills your kitchen while it bakes is irresistible, inviting you to enjoy a warm slice right away.
If you want a quick, tasty treat that works perfectly for breakfast or an afternoon snack, this fresh pear bread is a crowd-pleaser. Using ripe pears adds natural sweetness, so you don’t have to add too much sugar. One loaf never lasts long at my house because everyone loves it!
For a little twist, try adding nuts or cinnamon to the batter for added flavor and texture. But even the plain version of this bread is simply delightful, with a fluffy, sweet, and fruity taste that will brighten your day and keep you coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The foundation of any great recipe is quality ingredients. For pear bread, the ingredients are simple, but each plays a key role in ensuring the bread is moist, flavorful, and tender.
| Ingredient | Purpose | Notes |
| Fresh Pears | Adds moisture and natural sweetness | Use ripe but firm pears for the best texture |
| All-purpose flour | Structure and bulk | Can substitute part with whole wheat for a healthier option |
| Baking soda | Leavening agent | Reacts with acidic ingredients to help rise |
| Baking powder | Additional leavening | Provides lift and lightness |
| Salt | Enhances flavor | Balances sweetness |
| Ground cinnamon | Adds warmth and spice | Optional, but highly recommended |
| Granulated sugar | Sweetener | Adjust to taste; pears add natural sweetness |
| Brown sugar | Adds moisture and depth | Enhances flavor complexity |
| Eggs | Binding and richness | Adds moisture and structure |
| Vegetable oil | Moisture and tenderness | Keeps bread soft |
| Vanilla extract | Flavor enhancer | Adds subtle depth |
| Nuts (optional) | Texture and crunch | Walnuts or pecans are great choices |
Why Fresh Pears Matter
Using fresh, ripe pears is crucial. They provide a juicy texture and natural sweetness, which reduces the need for extra sugar. Pears like Bartlett or Bosc work best due to their balance of sweetness and firmness.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Fresh Pear Bread Recipe
Baking pear bread is straightforward when you follow clear steps. Below is a detailed guide to help you create a perfect loaf every time.
Step 1: Prepare Your Pears
- Peel and core 2 to 3 ripe pears.
- Dice them into small chunks or grate them for more moisture distribution.
- Set aside.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a large bowl, sift together 2 cups of flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of salt, and 1 to 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon.
- Mixing these well ensures even rising and flavor distribution.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
- In another bowl, whisk 2 large eggs until smooth.
- Add ¾ cup vegetable oil, 1 cup granulated sugar, ½ cup brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
- Mix until well combined.
Step 4: Blend Wet and Dry
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture.
- Do not overmix- just combine until you see no flour pockets.
Step 5: Add Pears and Nuts
- Gently fold in the diced or grated pears.
- If using, add ½ cup chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans.
Step 6: Bake
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- Pour batter into the pan, spreading evenly.
- Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Let cool before slicing.
Tips for Perfect Pear Bread
Getting pear bread just right can be simple with a few insider tips. Here’s how to keep your loaf moist, flavorful, and delicious every time.
Choosing the Right Pears
- Use ripe but firm pears to avoid a mushy loaf.
- Bartlett pears are juicy and sweet, while Bosc pears have a firmer texture and a spicy flavor.
- Avoid overly soft or underripe pears for the best results.
Avoiding Dry Bread
- Don’t overbake- check for doneness starting at 50 minutes.
- Using both brown sugar and oil helps retain moisture.
- Grating pears instead of dicing increases moisture but can make the bread denser.
Storage Advice
- Store pear bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or an airtight container.
- Keep at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to 1 week.
- Freeze slices for up to 3 months; thaw before serving.
Variations to Try
| Variation | Description |
| Add spices | Nutmeg, cloves, or ginger enhance warmth |
| Use canned pears | Drain well to avoid excess moisture |
| Add citrus zest | Lemon or orange zest brightens the flavor |
| Include seeds | Chia or flax seeds add nutrition and texture |
Related Recipes You’ll Love
If you enjoy pear bread, here are some other recipes you might want to try. These share similar ingredients or textures and can add variety to your baking routine.
- Apple Cinnamon Bread – A cozy, spiced loaf with tender apple chunks.
- Banana Nut Bread – A classic moist bread with ripe bananas and crunchy walnuts.
- Zucchini Bread – Moist and slightly sweet, packed with shredded zucchini.
- Pumpkin Bread – A Seasonal favorite with warm spices and rich pumpkin flavor.
Printable Recipe Card
Pear Bread Recipe
| Ingredient | Amount |
| Fresh pears | 2-3 medium, peeled |
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups |
| Baking soda | 1 teaspoon |
| Baking powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Ground cinnamon | 1-2 teaspoons |
| Granulated sugar | 1 cup |
| Brown sugar | ½ cup |
| Eggs | 2 large |
| Vegetable oil | ¾ cup |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Nuts (optional) | ½ cup, chopped |
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- Prepare pears by peeling, coring, and dicing or grating.
- Mix dry ingredients in one bowl; whisk wet ingredients in another.
- Combine wet and dry mixtures, fold in pears and nuts.
- Pour batter into pan, bake 55-65 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool before slicing. Enjoy!
Real-World Example: A Home Baker’s Success Story
Sarah, a mother of two from Dubai, shared her experience baking a fresh pear bread recipe for her family. She found that using fresh Bartlett pears made the bread naturally sweet and juicy, reducing sugar by half. She added a sprinkle of cinnamon and walnuts for crunch, and her children loved the bread as a snack and breakfast option. Sarah’s tip? “Don’t overmix the batter- keep it light and fold in the pears gently. It keeps the bread soft and fluffy.”
Summary Table: Fresh Pear Bread Recipe vs. Other Fruit Breads
| Feature | Pear Bread | Apple Bread | Banana Bread |
| Moisture Level | High | Medium | Very High |
| Natural Sweetness | Moderate to High | Moderate | High |
| Typical Baking Time | 55-65 minutes | 50-60 minutes | 60-70 minutes |
| Common Add-ins | Nuts, cinnamon | Raisins, nuts | Walnuts, chocolate chips |
| Flavor Profile | Sweet, fruity, mild | Spiced, tangy | Sweet, rich |
Final Thoughts
Fresh Pear Bread recipe is truly one of those baked treats that feels both comforting and special. It combines the natural sweetness and juiciness of fresh pears with a tender, moist crumb that can brighten any breakfast or snack time. What makes pear bread stand out is its simplicity- using common pantry ingredients with a fresh fruit twist makes it approachable for both novice and experienced bakers alike.
The key to a perfect pear bread lies in the quality of the pears and how you incorporate them. Ripe, firm pears add just the right amount of moisture and sweetness without making the loaf soggy. The balance of sugars, oils, and spices like cinnamon enhances the overall flavor, creating a loaf that’s delicious warm from the oven or toasted the next day.
Many home bakers find joy in making a fresh pear bread recipe because it’s both rewarding and forgiving. With just a bit of practice and attention to the ripeness of your fruit, you can consistently bake a loaf that delights family and friends.
In summary, pear bread is more than just a quick bread- it’s a moist, flavorful, and easy-to-make treat that can become a staple in your baking repertoire. Whether you enjoy it plain or jazz it up with nuts and spices, this recipe is sure to satisfy your craving for a sweet, fruity, and comforting loaf any day of the week.
FAQs
What kind of pears work best for pear bread?
Ripe but firm pears like Bartlett and Bosc are ideal. They provide sweetness and moisture without becoming mushy, helping the bread maintain its texture and flavor.
Can I use canned pears instead of fresh ones?
Yes, but drain canned pears well to avoid excess moisture that can make the bread soggy. Fresh pears usually yield better flavor and texture.
How long does pear bread stay fresh?
Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, pear bread stays fresh for about 3 days. Refrigeration extends this to up to a week.
Can I freeze pear bread?
Absolutely! Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or foil and freeze. Thaw at room temperature or warm gently before serving.
Is pear bread healthy?
Pear bread contains natural fruit sugars and can be made healthier by using whole wheat flour or reducing added sugar. Adding nuts boosts fiber and nutrients.
