This fruit bread recipe is perfect for bread machines, combining the sweetness of dried fruits with the comforting aroma of freshly baked bread. It’s an easy way to enjoy a delightful loaf that can be served for breakfast or as a snack.
Using a bread machine simplifies the process, allowing you to enjoy homemade bread with minimal effort. You can customize the fruit mix to include your favorites like raisins, cranberries, or apricots.
Creating the Perfect Fruit Bread
Fruit bread is a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of dried fruits with the comforting aroma of freshly baked bread.
This recipe is designed for bread machines, making it simple and convenient to enjoy a homemade loaf without the hassle of traditional baking methods.
The result is a soft, sweet loaf that is perfect for breakfast or as a snack throughout the day.
Ingredients That Make a Difference
The key to a successful fruit bread lies in the quality of the ingredients.
Using warm water, sugar, and butter as a base creates a rich flavor profile that enhances the overall taste.
Bread flour is essential for achieving that perfect texture, while the addition of mixed dried fruits like raisins, cranberries, and apricots adds bursts of sweetness and color.
Optional ingredients such as cinnamon and chopped nuts can elevate the flavor even further, providing a delightful crunch and warmth.
Choosing high-quality dried fruits will ensure that each slice is packed with flavor, making every bite enjoyable.
Simple Steps to Homemade Goodness
Making fruit bread in a bread machine is straightforward.
Start by adding warm water, sugar, and softened butter to the pan, followed by bread flour, salt, and yeast.
This order is crucial for proper mixing and rising.
If you decide to include cinnamon and nuts, sprinkle them on top of the flour before starting the machine.
Select the ‘Sweet’ or ‘Basic’ setting, and adjust the crust color to your liking.
Once set, the machine will handle mixing, kneading, rising, and baking, allowing you to relax while it works its magic.
The Joy of Baking
Once the baking cycle is complete, the aroma of freshly baked fruit bread will fill your kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere.
Carefully remove the bread from the pan and let it cool on a wire rack.
This step is essential for achieving the right texture, as slicing too soon can result in a gummy loaf.
After cooling, slice the bread to reveal the colorful mix of dried fruits within.
Each slice showcases the beautiful combination of flavors and textures, making it an appealing addition to any breakfast table or snack time.
Serving Suggestions
Fruit bread is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways.
Serve it plain, or spread a thin layer of butter or cream cheese for added richness.
Pair it with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy morning or afternoon treat.
For a more indulgent option, consider toasting the slices and topping them with fresh fruit or a drizzle of honey.
This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a delightful visual appeal to your dish.
Storing Your Fruit Bread
To keep your fruit bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature.
It can last for several days, making it a perfect option for meal prep or for enjoying throughout the week.
If you want to extend its shelf life, consider freezing slices for later use.
When ready to enjoy, simply thaw the slices at room temperature or toast them directly from the freezer for a warm, comforting snack.
With its delightful taste and texture, this fruit bread is sure to become a favorite in your home.
Easy Bread Machine Fruit Bread Recipe
This fruit bread features a soft, sweet loaf packed with a variety of dried fruits. The recipe takes about 3 hours from start to finish and yields one 1.5-pound loaf.
Ingredients
- 1 cup warm water (110°F)
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened
- 3 cups bread flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons bread machine yeast
- 1 cup mixed dried fruits (raisins, cranberries, apricots, etc.)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions
- Add Ingredients: In the bread machine pan, add the warm water, sugar, and softened butter. Then, add the bread flour, salt, and yeast in that order.
- Mix in Fruits: If using, sprinkle the cinnamon and add the mixed dried fruits and nuts on top of the flour.
- Select Settings: Choose the ‘Sweet’ or ‘Basic’ bread setting on your bread machine and set the crust color to your preference.
- Start the Machine: Close the lid and start the bread machine. It will mix, knead, rise, and bake the bread automatically.
- Cool and Slice: Once the baking cycle is complete, carefully remove the bread from the pan and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours
- Servings: 12 slices
- Calories: 150kcal
- Fat: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 28g