Candied Fruit Quick Bread

Candied Fruit Quick Bread

8 servings
This old family recipe for Christmas fruit bread is not as heavy as a traditional fruitcake, nor nearly as dense. Serve it plain or lightly toasted.

Ingredients

  • eggs
    2 large
  • milk
    1 c
  • butter

    melted

    3 tbsp
  • sifted all-purpose flour
    2 c
  • baking powder
    4 tsp
  • salt
    ½ tsp
  • ground cinnamon
    ¼ tsp
  • white sugar
    ½ c
  • pecans

    roughly chopped

    ¼ c
  • chopped blanched almonds
    ¼ c
  • chopped candied citron
    ¼ c
  • currants
    ¼ c
  • chopped candied cherries
    2 tbsp
  • chopped candied lemon peel
    2 tbsp

Directions

  1. 1

    Whisk eggs in a medium bowl. Mix in milk and melted butter until well combined.

  2. 2

    Sift flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon into a large mixing bowl. Stir in sugar, pecans, almonds, citron, currants, cherries, and lemon peel until well combined. Add wet ingredients and stir just enough to blend. Pour batter into a generously greased 8x4-inch loaf pan. Let stand for 20 minutes.

  3. 3

    Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).

  4. 4

    Bake in the center of the preheated oven until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, 60 to 70 minutes. Remove from the oven and turn out onto a wire rack; let cool for 3 hours before slicing.

Candied Fruit Quick Bread

Candied Fruit Quick Bread

285 min8 servings344 cal

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About this Recipe

Craving a delightful holiday treat that feels special but isn't as heavy as traditional fruitcake? This cherished family recipe for Candied Fruit Quick Bread offers a beautifully moist and flavorful alternative that’s perfect for festive gatherings or a cozy morning. You'll love how it brings warm, nostalgic flavors to your table.

What truly sets this quick bread apart is its unique balance: it’s incredibly rich with a generous blend of candied fruits and nuts, yet it’s surprisingly less dense than what you might expect from a classic fruitcake. The careful combination of baking powder, milk, and melted butter contributes to its tender crumb, making each slice a comforting experience that stands out from more traditional, heavier loaves.

Expect a tender, sweet crumb generously studded with a vibrant medley of pecans, blanched almonds, currants, and the festive colors of chopped candied cherries, citron, and lemon peel. The subtle hint of ground cinnamon weaves through the bright citrus notes, creating an inviting aroma and taste that speaks of homemade warmth. Each bite delivers a comforting sweetness with a pleasant texture, making it a truly satisfying and approachable bake for any home cook.

While delicious as is, you can easily tailor this quick bread to your pantry or preference. If blanched almonds aren't on hand, regular chopped almonds will work beautifully. For a touch more tartness, consider swapping some of the candied citron for an equal amount of dried cranberries. Feel free to adjust the mix of candied fruits based on your personal favorites or what you have available.

Serve this festive quick bread plain for a simple breakfast or lightly toasted alongside your morning coffee or afternoon tea. It’s an ideal addition to any holiday brunch spread or makes a thoughtful, homemade gift during the festive season.

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