When it comes to enjoying spiced persimmon bread, let’s not just think about the bread itself; pairing can elevate your experience tenfold. A slice of this delightful bread goes beautifully with a warm cup of chai or a smooth latte.
You might even enjoy it alongside a dollop of cream cheese or a spread of honey butter for that added richness. Feel like getting fancy? Serve it with a side of spiced tea or even a light, fruity wine, and you’ll have quite the treat. Now, let’s dive into everything you need to know about this comforting recipe.
What is Spiced Persimmon Bread?
Spiced persimmon bread is a quick bread that simplifies the joy of baking. Made with ripe persimmon puree, it combines warm spices like cinnamon and ginger, finishing with crunchy walnuts for texture. In essence, it’s as much about nurturing the senses as it is about satisfying hunger.
Quick breads, unlike their yeast-leavened cousins, don’t require kneading or lengthy rising times. Instead, they rely on baking soda or baking powder for lift. This bread is moist, flavorful, and filled with the goodness of seasonal fruit, making it a delightful afternoon snack or a heartfelt gift.
What Makes This Recipe Different from Other Spiced Persimmon Bread Recipes?
Many spiced persimmon bread recipes exist, often calling for varying levels of sweetness, spices, or textures. What sets mine apart? First, it’s the use of both fresh persimmons and spices that truly accentuate the fruit’s natural sweetness without overwhelming it.
Instead of loading it with sugar, I let the ripe persimmons shine, allowing them to speak for themselves. Plus, the addition of orange zest adds a zesty brightness that balances the spice and sweetness well. I also opted for walnuts, which offer a delightful crunch, unlike many other versions that skip the nuts.
How Does It Taste?
Imagine sinking your teeth into a slice of this bread. The first bite reveals a tender crumb that’s infused with a unique balance of spices and fruitiness. The warm notes of cinnamon and ginger dance with the natural sweetness of the persimmon.
The walnuts crunch, providing a satisfying contrast to the softness of the bread. Finally, there’s that hint of citrus from the orange zest that brings everything together in a beautiful way.
Ingredients You’ll Need to Make This Dish
You may have most of these ingredients in your pantry. Let’s gather what we need:
– 2 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1⅔ cups (210 g) all-purpose flour
– ½ cup minus 1 tablespoon (113 ml) vegetable oil
– 1¼ cups (275 g) persimmon puree (about 1½ ripe persimmons)
– ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
– ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 2 tablespoons chopped toasted walnuts
– Zest of 1 orange (plus extra for garnish)
For the orange glaze:
– 4 tablespoons powdered sugar
– 1 tablespoon fresh orange juice
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Persimmons
First, you need ripe persimmons. If you haven’t used them before, let me explain. You want them soft to the touch, a bit like an overripe peach. Slice them in half and scoop out the flesh into a bowl. Mash it until you have a smooth puree. It’s an essential step that sets the tone for the whole flavor profile.
Step 2: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan, or line it with parchment paper for easier removal. I have had moments where bread has surprisingly stuck to the pan, and believe me, it’s not pretty!
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, and vegetable oil. Once combined, stir in the persimmon puree and vanilla extract. Make sure these ingredients mix quite well, as they form the foundation for the texture of your bread.
Step 4: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, and zest of the orange. This will ensure that the spices and leavening agent are evenly distributed throughout the bread.
Step 5: Integrate the Mixtures
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Be gentle here! Over-mixing can lead to a tough bread. Once just combined, stir in the toasted walnuts. The goal is to ensure you see a few pockets of flour – no need for perfection.
Step 6: Bake
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Smooth the top for a nice surface finish. Bake for about 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The scent wafting from the oven will be heavenly, I assure you.
Step 7: Glaze
While the bread cools slightly, whisk together the powdered sugar and fresh orange juice until smooth for the glaze. Drizzle this over the top of warm bread for an irresistible finish. It adds a zingy sweetness that is just divine.
Tips & Tricks on Making Spiced Persimmon Bread
– Use Ripe Persimmons: Ensure your persimmons are very ripe for the best flavor and texture. Hard or unripe persimmons can turn your bread into a chalky mess.
– Store in an Airtight Container: Once your bread has cooled, wrap it in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to maintain its moisture.
– Enhance Flavor with Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste. Nutmeg or allspice can add an interesting twist.
– Make it Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with an equal amount of your favorite gluten-free flour blend. This works beautifully!
– Chill for Better Flavor: Consider letting the bread sit overnight before slicing. The flavors meld together beautifully in that time.
Nutrition Information
A standard slice of spiced persimmon bread (about 1/12 of a loaf) typically contains around:
– Calories: 150
– Fat: 6g
– Carbohydrates: 23g
– Fiber: 1g
– Sugar: 6g
– Protein: 2g
This is a rough estimate and can vary based on specific ingredient choices. Always consider utilizing nutritional calculators for the most accurate results.
How Do I Store This Dish?
Store your spiced persimmon bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. If you want to keep it longer, consider slicing and freezing pieces. Thaw them out when you want a slice of warmth and comfort.
What Other Substitutes Can You Use in Spiced Persimmon Bread?
– Unsweetened Applesauce: This can replace oil for a lighter version. The bread may be less rich, but still tasty.
– Maple Syrup: Swap granulated sugar for maple syrup for a deeper, earthier flavor. Just reduce the liquid in the recipe slightly.
– Walnut Oil: For a nutty flavor, you can substitute walnut oil for vegetable oil. It’s an excellent alternative for nut lovers!
– Almond Flour: Use this for a gluten-free option that also offers a pleasant nutty flavor.
– Cinnamon Sugar Topping: Instead of a glaze, consider sprinkling a mixture of cinnamon and sugar on top before baking for a sweet crust.
Conclusion
Baking spiced persimmon bread is more than just a recipe; it’s a heartfelt tradition that connects us with nature’s bounty and the spirit of togetherness. As you slice into this sweet creation, you might find yourself reminiscing about the origins of each ingredient—those sweet, ripe persimmons, the warming spices, and even the walnuts that add a satisfying crunch.
Whether you’re gathering around the table with family, inviting friends over for tea, or simply treating yourself, this recipe embodies the spirit of home. So don’t hesitate to share this loaf of love; let it be the centerpiece of conversations, laughter, and perhaps a few friendly debates about your favorite fall flavors. Happy baking!
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Spiced Persimmon Bread – Treat Indulgently
Description
Ah, spiced persimmon bread! It’s the cozy hug of the baking world. The aroma wafts through the kitchen, wrapping you in warmth. I remember the first time I tasted this delightful bread. It was at a small café nestled in a quiet town, known for its rustic charm and commitment to local ingredients.
The owner, an older gentleman with twinkling eyes, explained how persimmons were a treasure in his family’s fall harvest. That conversation struck a chord with me, sparking a fascination that led to experimenting in my own kitchen.
In this post, I will guide you through a recipe idea that is equally wholesome and delectable. This spiced persimmon bread recipe is sure to become a seasonal favorite that you will look forward to baking year after year.
Ingredients
For the orange glaze:
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Persimmons
-
First, you need ripe persimmons. If you haven't used them before, let me explain. You want them soft to the touch, a bit like an overripe peach. Slice them in half and scoop out the flesh into a bowl. Mash it until you have a smooth puree. It’s an essential step that sets the tone for the whole flavor profile.
Step 2: Preheat and Prep
-
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan, or line it with parchment paper for easier removal. I have had moments where bread has surprisingly stuck to the pan, and believe me, it’s not pretty!
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
-
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, and vegetable oil. Once combined, stir in the persimmon puree and vanilla extract. Make sure these ingredients mix quite well, as they form the foundation for the texture of your bread.
Step 4: Mix the Dry Ingredients
-
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, and zest of the orange. This will ensure that the spices and leavening agent are evenly distributed throughout the bread.
Step 5: Integrate the Mixtures
-
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Be gentle here! Over-mixing can lead to a tough bread. Once just combined, stir in the toasted walnuts. The goal is to ensure you see a few pockets of flour – no need for perfection.
Step 6: Bake
-
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Smooth the top for a nice surface finish. Bake for about 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The scent wafting from the oven will be heavenly, I assure you.
Step 7: Glaze
-
While the bread cools slightly, whisk together the powdered sugar and fresh orange juice until smooth for the glaze. Drizzle this over the top of warm bread for an irresistible finish. It adds a zingy sweetness that is just divine.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 10
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 150kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 6g10%
- Total Carbohydrate 23g8%
- Dietary Fiber 1g4%
- Sugars 3g
- Protein 2g4%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Use Ripe Persimmons: Ensure your persimmons are very ripe for the best flavor and texture. Hard or unripe persimmons can turn your bread into a chalky mess.
- Store in an Airtight Container: Once your bread has cooled, wrap it in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to maintain its moisture.
- - Enhance Flavor with Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste. Nutmeg or allspice can add an interesting twist.
- Make it Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with an equal amount of your favorite gluten-free flour blend. This works beautifully!
- Chill for Better Flavor: Consider letting the bread sit overnight before slicing. The flavors meld together beautifully in that time.
