Ron’s Fruit Bread: A Delicious and Easy Recipe

Fruit bread is a delightful treat enjoyed around the world. Whether it’s served as a breakfast staple, a tea-time snack, or a festive holiday bread, its versatility and comforting flavors make it a perennial favorite. This recipe, affectionately named “Ron’s Fruit Bread,” is a slightly adapted and streamlined version focusing on ease of preparation and consistently delicious results. It’s perfect for novice bakers and seasoned pros alike, offering a delightful mix of sweetness, spice, and fruity goodness in every slice. We’ll guide you through each step, ensuring a perfect loaf every time.

Why Ron’s Fruit Bread Stands Out

While numerous fruit bread recipes exist, Ron’s Fruit Bread emphasizes simplicity without compromising on flavor. What makes it special?

* **Easy to Follow:** The instructions are clear, concise, and designed for bakers of all skill levels.
* **Customizable:** The recipe is a great base, allowing you to swap out fruits, nuts, and spices to your liking.
* **Deliciously Moist:** Careful ingredient ratios and baking techniques ensure a tender and moist crumb that stays fresh for days.
* **Minimal Kneading:** This recipe requires minimal kneading, making it a breeze to prepare.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you begin, gather all the necessary ingredients. This ensures a smooth and efficient baking process.

* **Dry Ingredients:**
* 3 ½ cups (420g) All-Purpose Flour: Provides the structure of the bread. Bread flour can also be used for a chewier texture.
* ¼ cup (50g) Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps activate the yeast.
* 1 teaspoon Salt: Enhances the flavors and controls the yeast activity.
* 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) Active Dry Yeast: The leavening agent that makes the bread rise. Instant yeast can also be substituted.
* 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon: Adds warmth and spice. Nutmeg, allspice, or cardamom can also be added in small quantities.

* **Wet Ingredients:**
* 1 ¼ cups (300ml) Milk: Adds moisture and richness to the dough. Can be substituted with water or a non-dairy milk like almond or soy milk.
* ¼ cup (60g) Unsalted Butter, Melted: Contributes to the tenderness and flavor of the bread. Vegetable oil can be used as a substitute.
* 1 Large Egg: Adds richness, structure, and color to the bread.
* 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile.

* **Fruits and Nuts:**
* 1 cup (150g) Mixed Dried Fruits: A combination of raisins, currants, cranberries, and chopped apricots is recommended. Feel free to use your favorite dried fruits.
* ½ cup (60g) Chopped Nuts: Walnuts, pecans, or almonds add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor. You can omit the nuts if you have allergies or prefer a nut-free bread.

Equipment You’ll Need

Having the right equipment will make the baking process much smoother:

* Large Mixing Bowl: For mixing the dough ingredients.
* Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
* Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For mixing the dough.
* 9×5 inch Loaf Pan: For baking the bread.
* Parchment Paper (optional): For lining the loaf pan and preventing sticking.
* Wire Rack: For cooling the baked bread.
* Plastic Wrap: For covering the dough during rising.
* Clean Kitchen Towel: Also for covering the dough during rising.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now, let’s dive into the detailed instructions for making Ron’s Fruit Bread.

Step 1: Prepare the Yeast Mixture

1. In a large mixing bowl, warm the milk slightly (about 110-115°F or 43-46°C). It should feel warm to the touch but not hot. Hot milk can kill the yeast.
2. Add the granulated sugar and active dry yeast to the warm milk. Stir gently to combine.
3. Let the mixture stand for 5-10 minutes, or until the yeast becomes foamy and bubbly. This indicates that the yeast is active and ready to use. If the yeast doesn’t foam, it might be old or inactive, and you’ll need to use fresh yeast.

Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients

1. Add the melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract to the yeast mixture. Mix well until all the wet ingredients are thoroughly combined.

Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients

1. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, and ground cinnamon.
2. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing with a wooden spoon or spatula until a shaggy dough forms. Be careful not to overmix at this stage.

Step 4: Knead the Dough

1. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface.
2. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time. If you are using a stand mixer, knead with the dough hook on low speed for about 5 minutes.
3. The dough should be soft and slightly tacky but not overly sticky.

Step 5: Incorporate Fruits and Nuts

1. Gently flatten the dough into a rectangle.
2. Sprinkle the mixed dried fruits and chopped nuts evenly over the dough.
3. Fold the dough over the fruits and nuts and gently knead to incorporate them evenly throughout the dough. Be careful not to overwork the dough at this stage, as it can toughen it.

Step 6: First Rise

1. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat all sides.
2. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel.
3. Let the dough rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size. The rising time will depend on the temperature of your environment. A warm place will encourage faster rising. An oven with the light on (but turned off) is a great spot.

Step 7: Shape the Dough

1. Gently punch down the risen dough to release the air.
2. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface.
3. Shape the dough into a log that is slightly shorter than the length of your loaf pan.

Step 8: Second Rise

1. Line the 9×5 inch loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal. Alternatively, grease the loaf pan with butter or cooking spray.
2. Carefully place the shaped dough into the prepared loaf pan.
3. Cover the loaf pan with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel.
4. Let the dough rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until it has risen about an inch above the top of the loaf pan.

Step 9: Bake the Bread

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven.
3. Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top of the bread is browning too quickly, you can tent it with aluminum foil during the last 15-20 minutes of baking.

Step 10: Cool the Bread

1. Once the bread is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the loaf pan for 10 minutes.
2. After 10 minutes, carefully remove the bread from the loaf pan and place it on a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents the bottom of the bread from becoming soggy.
3. Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing and serving.

Tips for Success

* **Use Fresh Yeast:** Ensure your yeast is active by checking the expiration date and performing the proofing step.
* **Don’t Overheat the Milk:** Hot milk can kill the yeast. Aim for a temperature between 110-115°F (43-46°C).
* **Measure Accurately:** Precise measurements are crucial for successful baking. Use measuring cups and spoons specifically designed for baking.
* **Don’t Overmix the Dough:** Overmixing can result in a tough bread. Mix until the ingredients are just combined.
* **Control the Rising Temperature:** A warm environment is essential for proper rising. Avoid drafts and cold spots.
* **Cool Completely:** Resist the temptation to slice the bread while it’s still warm. Cooling completely allows the crumb to set properly.

Variations and Customizations

One of the best things about Ron’s Fruit Bread is its versatility. Here are some ideas for variations and customizations:

* **Different Fruits:** Experiment with different combinations of dried fruits, such as figs, dates, cherries, or apricots. You can also add fresh or frozen berries to the dough (reduce the amount of milk slightly if using frozen berries).
* **Different Nuts:** Try different types of nuts, such as hazelnuts, macadamia nuts, or cashews. You can also add seeds, such as sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds.
* **Spices:** Add other spices, such as nutmeg, allspice, cardamom, or ginger. A pinch of cloves can also add a warm, festive flavor.
* **Citrus Zest:** Add the zest of an orange, lemon, or grapefruit to the dough for a bright, citrusy flavor.
* **Glaze:** Brush the baked bread with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk or lemon juice for added sweetness and shine.
* **Chocolate Chips:** Add chocolate chips to the dough for a decadent twist. White chocolate chips or dark chocolate chips both work well.
* **Savory Fruit Bread:** Leave out the sugar and cinnamon and add savory ingredients, such as chopped olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and herbs like rosemary or thyme.

Serving Suggestions

Ron’s Fruit Bread is delicious on its own, but here are some serving suggestions to enhance your enjoyment:

* **Toast it:** Toast slices of fruit bread and spread with butter, jam, or cream cheese.
* **Make French toast:** Dip slices of fruit bread in an egg mixture and fry them for a delicious French toast.
* **Serve with cheese:** Pair slices of fruit bread with a selection of cheeses, such as brie, cheddar, or goat cheese.
* **Use it for sandwiches:** Create a unique sandwich using fruit bread as the base. It pairs well with ham, turkey, or cheese.
* **Enjoy it with tea or coffee:** Ron’s Fruit Bread is the perfect accompaniment to a cup of tea or coffee.
* **Make bread pudding:** Use leftover fruit bread to make a delicious bread pudding.

Storage Instructions

To keep your Ron’s Fruit Bread fresh for as long as possible, follow these storage instructions:

* **Room Temperature:** Store the cooled bread in an airtight container or wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature for up to 3-4 days.
* **Freezer:** For longer storage, slice the bread and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Ron’s Fruit Bread: A Recipe for Memories

Ron’s Fruit Bread is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to create warm memories with loved ones. The aroma of baking bread filling your home, the anticipation of the first slice, and the joy of sharing it with family and friends—these are the moments that make life special.

So, gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to bake a loaf of Ron’s Fruit Bread. It’s a simple recipe, but it’s packed with flavor, love, and the promise of a delicious treat.

Recipe Card

**Yields:** 1 loaf
**Prep Time:** 25 minutes
**Rise Time:** 1.75 – 2.25 hours
**Bake Time:** 45-55 minutes

**Ingredients:**

* 3 ½ cups (420g) All-Purpose Flour
* ¼ cup (50g) Granulated Sugar
* 1 teaspoon Salt
* 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) Active Dry Yeast
* 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon
* 1 ¼ cups (300ml) Milk
* ¼ cup (60g) Unsalted Butter, Melted
* 1 Large Egg
* 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
* 1 cup (150g) Mixed Dried Fruits
* ½ cup (60g) Chopped Nuts

**Instructions:**

1. Warm milk to 110-115°F (43-46°C). Add sugar and yeast, stir, and let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
2. Add melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract to the yeast mixture.
3. Whisk together flour, salt, and cinnamon in a separate bowl.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
5. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
6. Flatten the dough, sprinkle with dried fruits and nuts, and knead to incorporate.
7. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled.
8. Punch down the dough, shape into a log, and place in a greased or parchment-lined 9×5 inch loaf pan.
9. Cover and let rise for 30-45 minutes, or until it has risen about an inch above the top of the pan.
10. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Tent with foil if browning too quickly.
11. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.

Enjoy your homemade Ron’s Fruit Bread! It’s a labor of love that results in a truly satisfying and delicious treat. Experiment with different variations to find your perfect fruit bread combination. Happy baking!