Name: Fruit and Nut Loaf: 7 Wholesome Reasons to Bake Today Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: Western
Ingredients: 2 cups mixed dried fruits (raisins, apricots, cranberries); 1 cup mixed nuts (walnuts, almonds, pecans); 1 cup whole wheat flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/4 cup vegetable oil; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup milk or plant-based milk

Description

This wholesome Fruit and Nut Loaf combines dried fruits, crunchy nuts, and warm spices for a deliciously healthy treat. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or a cozy dessert, this easy-to-make loaf offers a balanced taste of natural sweetness and hearty texture, with the added benefits of whole wheat flour and nutrient-rich ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

2 cups mixed dried fruits (raisins, apricots, cranberries)
1 cup mixed nuts (walnuts, almonds, pecans)
1 cup whole wheat flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1/4 cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
1/2 cup milk or plant-based milk

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Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it is ready for baking.
Prepare Loaf Pan: Grease a loaf pan thoroughly to prevent sticking and promote even baking.
Mix Fruits and Nuts: In a bowl, combine the mixed dried fruits and nuts, distributing them evenly.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt until well mixed.
Mix Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk the honey or maple syrup, vegetable oil, eggs, and milk until smooth and fully incorporated.
Combine Batter: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, stirring to combine, then fold in the mixed dried fruits and nuts carefully to ensure even distribution without overmixing.
Pour Batter: Transfer the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Bake the Loaf: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool and Slice: Remove from oven and allow the loaf to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before removing and slicing to serve.

Notes

You can substitute plant-based milk for a dairy-free version.
Honey can be replaced with maple syrup for a vegan-friendly sweetener.
Ensure nuts are chopped to your preferred size for desired texture.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days or freeze for longer storage.
For added moisture, brush the cooled loaf with a little melted butter or oil before serving.