If you’re in the mood for a cozy, wholesome treat that feels like a warm hug, the Fruit and Nut Loaf Recipe is exactly what you need. This delightful loaf combines tender crumb with bursts of naturally sweet dried fruits and crunchy nuts, making each slice a perfect balance of texture and flavor. Whether served for breakfast, as a snack with tea, or alongside your morning coffee, this loaf is straightforward to bake and endlessly satisfying. It’s a comforting homemade classic that’s ideal for sharing with friends or enjoying as a special solo indulgence.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Fruit and Nut Loaf Recipe calls for simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that together create a loaf full of depth, warmth, and heartiness. Each element plays a crucial role, from the spices that lend a gentle warmth to the mix of dried fruits and nuts that add delightful texture and bursts of sweetness.
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour: The base that gives structure and a soft crumb to your loaf.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Ensures a light rise so your loaf isn’t dense.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Provides a gentle lift and helps balance acidity.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances flavor and balances sweetness beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds cozy warmth and aromatic spice.
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg: A subtle earthiness that complements the cinnamon.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: For just the right level of sweetness without overpowering.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar: Adds moisture and a lovely caramel undertone.
- 2 large eggs: Bind everything together and enrich the texture.
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil: Keeps the loaf tender and moist through baking.
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt or sour cream: Offers tang and softens the loaf crumb.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings a sweet, fragrant depth.
- 1 cup chopped mixed dried fruit (apricots, cranberries, raisins, dates): The heart of the loaf, providing chewy, juicy sweetness.
- 1 cup chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, almonds): Adds a satisfying crunch and rich nuttiness.
- 2 tablespoons orange juice or water: Helps plump the dried fruit and keeps them moist.
How to Make Fruit and Nut Loaf Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats, grease or line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper. This initial step is key—it ensures your loaf will release easily when baked, allowing for pristine slices and a beautiful presentation.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg. This blend of dry ingredients is what builds the foundation of your loaf’s flavor and texture, especially with the warm spices mixed right in.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, beat the eggs, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, yogurt (or sour cream), and vanilla extract until the mixture becomes smooth and well combined. This mixture is the energy that bakes life into the loaf, creating moisture and richness.
Step 4: Bring the Batter Together
Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want your loaf to have a tender crumb, so it’s best to stop when everything is evenly moistened.
Step 5: Add Fruit and Nuts
Toss the chopped dried fruit with the orange juice or water in a small bowl to plump them up slightly—this makes biting into them more juicy and vibrant. Then fold the fruit and nuts into the batter so they’re evenly dispersed. This step transforms your loaf into a flavor-packed treat full of surprises.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The aroma filling your kitchen at this point is pure magic and will have you eagerly awaiting the first slice.
Step 7: Cool and Slice
Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This resting step helps the loaf set up so it slices neatly without crumbling.
How to Serve Fruit and Nut Loaf Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance the rustic charm by lightly dusting the top of your fruit and nut loaf with powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey. A thin spread of butter while it’s still slightly warm takes it to a whole new level of indulgence.
Side Dishes
This loaf pairs beautifully with a cup of hot tea or coffee, making an ideal accompaniment to a relaxed morning or afternoon break. For brunch, consider serving alongside a bowl of fresh fruit or creamy yogurt for added freshness and balance.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice the loaf thick or thin depending on your preference, and for a festive touch, top each slice with cream cheese frosting or nut butter. You can even cut it into smaller squares and serve it as part of a dessert platter with cheese and fresh fruit for a crowd-pleasing spread.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your fruit and nut loaf stays wonderfully moist and flavorful for several days if wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container at room temperature. It’s a perfect make-ahead treat for busy weeks or unexpected guests.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this delicious loaf over a longer period, slice it first, then freeze the slices in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can pop out individual portions whenever the craving strikes.
Reheating
To bring your loaf back to its just-baked glory, warm slices in a toaster oven or microwave briefly until heated through. Adding a touch of butter or jam after reheating will make every bite taste fresh and comforting.
FAQs
Can I substitute the dried fruits in the Fruit and Nut Loaf Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap any dried fruit for your favorites—think figs, cherries, or even dried pineapple. Just keep the quantity similar to maintain the loaf’s texture and moisture balance.
Is this Fruit and Nut Loaf Recipe gluten-free?
The recipe as written is not gluten-free, but you can experiment with gluten-free flour blends. Just note that results may vary slightly in texture and rise.
Can I make this loaf vegan?
With a few tweaks, yes! Replace eggs with flax or chia egg substitutes, use plant-based yogurt, and swap the vegetable oil for a neutral-tasting vegan oil. It’s a lovely option for those following a plant-based diet.
What’s the best way to chop nuts for the recipe?
Use a sharp knife or pulse them briefly in a food processor to achieve uneven, chunky pieces rather than powdery crumbs. This ensures you get delightful crunch and texture throughout your loaf.
Can I add fresh fruit instead of dried fruit?
Due to moisture content, fresh fruit isn’t recommended as a direct substitute because it could make the loaf soggy. Stick to dried or even freeze-dried fruit for the best outcome.
Final Thoughts
I cannot recommend this Fruit and Nut Loaf Recipe enough—it’s truly one of those kitchen wins that feels special without being complicated. Each bite delivers a comforting blend of fruity sweetness and nutty crunch that makes it a go-to for breakfast, snacks, or anytime you need a little homemade goodness. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to bake a loaf that will surely become a beloved staple in your home.
Print
Fruit and Nut Loaf Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (about 10 slices)
- Category: Breakfast, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A moist and flavorful Fruit and Nut Loaf packed with a variety of dried fruits and crunchy nuts, perfect for a wholesome breakfast or a satisfying snack. This quick bread combines warm spices and natural sweetness for a deliciously comforting treat.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt or sour cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons orange juice or water
Mix-ins
- 1 cup chopped mixed dried fruit (such as apricots, cranberries, raisins, or dates)
- 1 cup chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or almonds)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan and Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line a 9×5-inch loaf pan to prevent sticking.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg until evenly distributed.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, beat the eggs with granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, plain yogurt, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Stir the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients just until combined; avoid overmixing to keep the loaf tender.
- Prepare Fruit and Nuts: Toss the chopped dried fruit with the orange juice in a small bowl to plump and flavor the fruit, then fold it gently into the batter along with the chopped nuts.
- Fill Loaf Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top evenly with a spatula.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing to serve.
Notes
- This loaf keeps well for several days and tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.
- You can customize this recipe by mixing and matching your favorite dried fruits and nuts.
- Adding orange zest can enhance the brightness of the flavors in the loaf.
