Spiced Pear Bread Recipe

You know that cozy smell of warm spices in the kitchen? Now mix that with sweet, juicy pears baked into soft bread. Yep, it’s pure comfort in every slice.

I baked this one chilly afternoon, and the whole house smelled amazing. The cinnamon and nutmeg hug the pears just right. Each bite is sweet, moist, and so comforting.

What I love is how simple it is to make. No fancy steps, just basic ingredients that turn into something special. It’s the kind of bread you want with tea or coffee.

So let’s get started. Grab some ripe pears, a few spices, and we’ll make this spiced pear bread together.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Reader Favorite: It’s often described as “a perfect autumn bread” and “a go-to recipe every time I have pears to use up.”
• Moist and Flavorful: The pear not only adds a subtle sweetness but also makes the bread incredibly moist. Combined with spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, it creates the ultimate comfort food.
• Simple to Make: You can have this bread ready in about an hour, perfect for those last-minute baking cravings.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Bake this in advance and let it rest overnight—this will intensify the flavors and make it even more delicious the next day.
• Customizable: Add-ins like chopped walnuts, raisins, or even chocolate chips can make it your own.

Required Kitchen Tools

Before you begin, gather the following tools:

• Loaf Pan: A standard 9×5-inch loaf pan works best for this recipe.
• Mixing Bowls: You’ll need at least two bowls, one for the dry ingredients and one for the wet ingredients.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accuracy in adding the right amounts of ingredients.
• Hand or Stand Mixer (Optional): While you can mix by hand, a mixer helps achieve a smoother batter.
• Grater: For shredding the fresh pears.
• Spatula: To mix everything together without deflating the batter.
• Cooling Rack: To cool the bread evenly.

Ingredients

To create this incredibly flavorful spiced pear bread, you’ll need the following ingredients (exact measurements are listed below in the recipe card):

• Gluten-Free Flour: You can use regular all-purpose flour if you’re not gluten-free, but the gluten-free version ensures everyone can enjoy it!
• Cinnamon: A warm, earthy spice that pairs wonderfully with the pears.
• Baking Soda: Helps the bread rise and gives it the perfect texture.
• Sugar: For the perfect balance of sweetness.
• Pears: Grated fresh pears are the star of this recipe, bringing moisture and a gentle, fruity flavor.
• Nutmeg: Adds a spicy kick and complements the cinnamon beautifully.
• Butter: The butter gives the bread richness and moisture.
• Milk: Helps combine the dry ingredients into a smooth batter.
• Eggs: Adds structure and helps the bread rise.
• Kosher Salt: Balances out the sweetness of the bread.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor.
• Walnuts (Optional): Adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to the bread.

Variations for Spiced Pear Bread

• Add Chocolate Chips: For an extra treat, fold in ½ cup of semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips into the batter.
• Try Different Nuts: Swap walnuts for pecans or almonds if that’s your preference.
• Incorporate Dried Fruit: Raisins, dried cranberries, or chopped dried apricots would complement the pears wonderfully.
• Use a Different Sweetener: Substitute the sugar with maple syrup or honey for a more natural sweetness.
• Add a Touch of Citrus: Zest some orange or lemon into the batter for a burst of citrus flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease your loaf pan with butter or non-stick cooking spray, and then lightly dust it with flour. This will ensure the bread comes out perfectly once it’s baked.

2. Prepare the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Beat the mixture together using a hand or stand mixer on low speed for about 2-3 minutes. This will ensure the eggs are well-incorporated into the batter and the butter blends seamlessly with the milk. If you’re doing this by hand, just whisk the ingredients together until smooth.

3. Grate the Pears

Using a box grater or a food processor, grate the pears. You don’t need to peel them, just cut off the ends and grate them with the skin on. The grated pears will release juice, so make sure to set the pears aside for a few minutes to drain some of the liquid. If there’s excess liquid, gently press the pears to remove it. You want a moist but not too soggy batter.

4. Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate medium-sized bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, kosher salt, and baking soda. Mixing the dry ingredients separately ensures that the leavening agents (like the baking soda) are evenly distributed throughout the flour.

5. Fold in the Pears and Dry Ingredients

Now, slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing gently as you go. Stir until the flour is just incorporated into the wet mixture. Then, fold in the grated pears. If you’re using walnuts, this is the time to add them as well. Be careful not to overmix—just fold everything together until the ingredients are evenly combined.

6. Pour into the Loaf Pan

Transfer the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth out the top with a spatula. The batter will be thick, so it may require a little extra effort to evenly distribute it in the pan.

7. Bake the Bread

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean. The baking time can vary slightly depending on your oven, so be sure to check the bread at the 50-minute mark.

8. Cool and Serve

Allow the spiced pear bread to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then transfer it to a cooling rack to cool completely. This bread is great when served warm, but it’s also delicious the next day once it has cooled completely and the flavors have had time to develop.

How to Serve Spiced Pear Bread

• With Butter: Spread a thick layer of butter on a warm slice of this bread for a decadent treat.
• As a Snack: Enjoy a slice with a cup of coffee or tea in the afternoon for the perfect snack.
• With Cream Cheese: Top a slice of spiced pear bread with a dollop of cream cheese for a tangy, creamy contrast to the spices.
• For Breakfast: Serve it alongside scrambled eggs, yogurt, and fresh fruit for a balanced and delicious breakfast.
• With Ice Cream: Warm slices of this bread and serve with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for an indulgent dessert.

Storing Spiced Pear Bread

• Room Temperature: Once cooled, store your pear bread in an airtight container or wrap it in plastic wrap. It will last for up to 3 days at room temperature.
• Refrigerator: For longer storage, you can keep it in the fridge for up to a week. Be sure to wrap it tightly to prevent it from drying out.
• Freezer: If you want to freeze the bread, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply leave it on the counter for a few hours or microwave individual slices.

Nutrition Information (Per Slice, Based on 12 Slices per Loaf)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	240 kcal
Carbohydrates	35g
Protein	4g
Fat	10g
Saturated Fat	5g
Fiber	3g
Sugar	18g
Sodium	180mg

Conclusion

Spiced Pear Bread is the ultimate fall-inspired treat that’s easy to make and perfect for sharing. It’s moist, flavorful, and full of comforting spices that make every bite feel like a hug. Whether you’re baking for your family or bringing it to a gathering, this pear bread will disappear in no time. It’s versatile, too—enjoy it as a quick breakfast, afternoon snack, or dessert. Try this recipe the next time you have ripe pears and want to make something special. You’ll love how it fills your home with warm, inviting aromas and delights your taste buds with each bite.