Banana Bread with Pear: Gluten-Free Recipe

While banana bread is a crowd-pleasing classic, taking it to a whole new level with the addition of pears results in a moist and tender loaf that builds on an already packed with flavour recipe. Rather than simply tossing chopped fruit into the batter, slow cooking the pears first allows their natural sugars and juices to blend perfectly into the banana bread. Pear pieces coated in a light-as-a-feather syrup swirled throughout the dense texture transform this from plain old banana bread into an indulgent snack or breakfast treat. Having experimented with pears of different varieties and ripeness in my own kitchen over the years, I’ve found that partially cooked, softened Bosc or Anjou pears yield an ideal balance of flavour and moisture when paired with mashed banana in this loaf.

Incorporating spotty old bananas that would otherwise be thrown out extends their lifespan and takes this quick bread recipe to another level. The naturally sweetened bananas team effortlessly with ripe but still firm pears that have been softened yet retain their shape. For baking, I prefer to peel, grate or finely chop the pears by hand to retain some texture. Overly soft, mushy fruit breaks down too much. An alternative is to dice a canned pear and drain off excess liquid before adding in small dice, distributing the fruit evenly throughout the batter.

Using Pear and banana loaf as an especially easy cake, the method comes together quickly via the creaming of butter and sugar before beating in the egg and mixed dry ingredients. It’s important to gently stir the delicate bananas and pears last so they don’t mush out completely. A standard baking time of 45–60 minutes at a moderate oven temperature allows the interior to set without overwhelming the fruit flavours. An overnight rest helps this loaf reach its peak moisture level for perfect slicing.

Banana Bread with Pear

Now, you have gone through the overall recipe, and read everything about it. Let’s learn how to make it.

Why You’ll Love this Delicious Pear Bread Recipe

It’s a great way to use up overripe pears and bananas that would otherwise be thrown out. Both fruits provide natural sweetness to this recipe, so less refined sugar is needed.

Pears like Anjou pears and Bosc pears add extra flavour and moisture, but you can experiment with whatever variety your local grocery store has on hand.

Baking the pear bread recipe results in a moist, sweet bread that’s healthier than most, using only minimal brown sugar or honey. Bits of tender chunks of pear add a surprising extra bite in every mouthful.

If you’re not a fan of pears on their own, the natural sweetness of the fruit blends beautifully with bananas to give an unexpected mix of the two flavours in each delicious, extra delicious bite. It’s also easy to substitute other fruits like apples if you prefer their natural sweetness.

INGREDIENTS

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (ca. 177 °C). 
2. Mash bananas and pears in a bowl and set aside.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together the dry ingredients.
4. In another bowl, cream the butter and sugars together until light and fluffy.
5. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in the mashed banana-pear mixture.
6. Fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined.
7. Pour batter into a greased loaf pan and bake for 60–70 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the centre comes out clean.

What Kind of Pears to Use in Banana Pear Bread

This easy banana pear bread recipe calls for fresh pears but also allows the use of canned pears. In fact, I’ve made it both ways over the years and they both work fine.

While fresh pears are highly recommended if available and very ripe pears that are super soft and juicy will blend nicely into the batter, canned fruit is also a convenient option. Peaches or pears from a can are commonly called for in vintage old-fashioned pear cake, pear muffins, or homemade pear cobbler recipes too.

I personally prefer to use overripe pears from the discount bin at my local grocery store that would otherwise go to waste, since they work great in quick breads like this.

However, if fresh pears are handy when the recipe calls for canned, you can simply substitute one can of peaches or fresh, 1 cup diced pears.

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Tips (3)

1. For baking, line a tin with baking paper. Allow some excess paper to overhang the short edges so it’s easier to lift the baked cake out.
2. A standard 9×5 inch (ca. 13 cm) loaf pan or 21.5 cm x 11 × 7 cm tin will give you best results.
3. This cake freezes well – wrap tightly in baking paper and seal in a freezer bag. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months. No need to thaw before serving, just defrost slightly then drizzle with golden syrup.

NUTRITION

Conclusion

This recipe for banana bread with pear offers a tasty twist on a classic treat. By incorporating ripe pears, it adds moisture and flavour while reducing sugars. Baking this bread is a delicious way to enjoy ripe fruits and create a healthier quick bread to enjoy.

FAQs

Does banana and pear go together?

Bananas and pears complement each other nicely. They provide fibre, nutrients, and minerals, and their textures and tastes blend well. Be sure to wash any organic products thoroughly prior to using.

What pairs well with banana bread?

Banana bread is delicious enjoyed on its own but also goes great with dishes like fondue, chocolate pudding, rice pudding, apple crisp, candied pecans, strawberry cobbler, chocolate ice cream, or vanilla yogurt.

Are pears or bananas healthier?

While bananas have a higher sugar content from glucose and fructose, pears have a lower overall sugar profile, making them a potentially healthier alternative according to a 2012 study by Gillit and Nieman.

What fruit can I substitute for bananas in banana bread?

Fruits like mashed pears, peaches, or apple sauce can simulate the banana’s consistency and volume well in recipes like banana-pear bread.

Can banana bread with pear be made gluten-free?

Yes, this banana bread with pear recipe can easily be made gluten-free by substituting gluten-free flour for regular all-purpose or whole wheat flour. The banana and pear provide moisture to create a moist loaf without gluten. Those with gluten sensitivities can enjoy this bread too.

Can I eat banana bread every day?

While banana bread is delicious, it’s best enjoyed occasionally as part of a balanced diet due to the high added sugar and refined carbs in conventional recipes.

When not to use bananas for bread?

Bananas should not be used if they are dark brown or black, as this indicates they are overripe and fermented with an alcohol-like taste.

Can I mix banana bread the night before?

Yes, you can mix the banana bread batter the night before and store it covered in the fridge. Just give it a few good stirs before baking as directed.