There’s something truly magical about Swedish Christmas traditions – the warm glow of candles, the smell of spices in the air, and the joy of indulging in delicious seasonal treats. If you’re looking to infuse your home with a touch of Scandinavian charm this holiday season, look no further than our delightful recipe for Päronbröd, or Pear Bread. This sweet and fragrant bread is a Swedish classic that will fill your kitchen with the inviting aroma of sweet pears and warm spices.
Title: Päronbröd Pear Bread
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe pears, peeled and diced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp baking soda
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp ground ginger
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
– Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, mix the diced pears with 1/4 cup of granulated sugar. Set aside and let the mixture sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the pears to release some of their juices.
3. In a separate large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and remaining 1/4 cup of granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
7. Gently fold in the pear mixture and chopped walnuts, if using.
8. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
9. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
10. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
11. Once cooled, dust the top of the bread with powdered sugar for a festive finish.
12. Slice the Pear Bread and serve with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a cozy and comforting treat during the festive season.
This delightful Päronbröd Pear Bread is a wonderful addition to your holiday baking repertoire. The sweet chunks of pear, warm spices, and tender crumb make it a perfect treat for breakfast or an afternoon snack. Whether you share it with loved ones or enjoy it as a quiet moment just for yourself, this Swedish-inspired bread is sure to bring a touch of Scandinavian coziness to your home this Christmas. Enjoy the process of baking and savor every bite of this delicious and heartwarming treat!
