Best 2 Birnbrot Swiss Pear Bread Recipes
Birnbrot, a traditional Swiss pear bread, is a delectable treat that combines the flavors of sweet pears, warm spices, and a hint of citrus. Originating in the canton of Thurgau, this beloved bread is often enjoyed during the fall and winter months. While there are variations in recipes, Birnbrot typically features a soft and slightly dense crumb, studded with tender pieces of pear. The addition of spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, along with the zest of lemon or orange, creates a symphony of flavors that dances on the palate. Savor Birnbrot as a comforting breakfast slice, a delightful afternoon snack, or a delightful accompaniment to your favorite cheese or preserves. This article presents two cherished Birnbrot recipes, each offering unique twists on this classic Swiss bread. The first recipe showcases a traditional approach, using fresh pears, while the second recipe incorporates dried pears for a more concentrated flavor. Both recipes guide you through the process of making this delectable bread, ensuring a successful baking experience.
Check out the recipes below so you can choose the best recipe for yourself!
BIRNBROT - SWISS PEAR BREAD
From The Festive Bread Book by Kathy Cutler. I made this the first time in honor of a Swiss colleague who was interning with us. I asked her if it was like birnbrot at home and she laughed and said that it was not, but that it was very good. I'm not sure what the difference is, as I've never had it when in Switzerland. But it's a very nice Christmas bread and has the added benefit of using dried pears, a convenience when fresh pears are not in season.
Provided by duonyte
Categories Yeast Breads
Time 3h15m
Yield 1 loaf
Number Of Ingredients 18
Steps:
- Dissolve the yeast in water, add one tsp flour and set aside in warm place for 10 minutes or so, until it is foamy and bubbly.
- Mix 1 cup flour, salt, sugar and softened butter in a mixer bowl. Add the yeast mixture and egg and mix thoroughly.
- Stir in enough of the remaining flour to make a soft dough. Turn out onto a floured surface and knead until smooth, about 10 minutes.
- Place in greased bowo, turning to coat top. Cover and let rise in warm place until doubled, about 1 hour.
- Prepare the filling while the dough is rising. In a small saucepan, bring the water to a boil.
- Add the fruit and the lemon juice to the water. Simmer over low heat, stirring frequently, for 10 minutes or until so tender that it can be mashed easily. Drain the fruit.
- Puree in a blender or food processor. Remove to a bowl and combine with the walnuts, lemon zest, cinnamon and nutmeg. Mix thoroughly - this will be a thick mixture.
- Grease a large baking sheet. Punch down the dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll the dough into a 9 x 9 inch square.
- Spread the filling on the dough, leaving a 1-inch margin all around. Roll the dough jelly-roll style.
- Place on the grease baking sheet, seam side down, and let rise in a warm place, covered, until doubled, about 30 minutes.
- Brush with glaze and bake in preheated 350 deg F oven 30 to 40 minutes or until done. Cool on wire rack.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 2162.5, Fat 67.3, SaturatedFat 27.4, Cholesterol 514.6, Sodium 754.7, Carbohydrate 364.7, Fiber 25.4, Sugar 180.4, Protein 45.8
PECAN PEAR BREAD
A great way to use fall fruit! This is lovely with an icing sugar glaze. Serve as a breakfast bread or toasted with vanilla ice cream.
Provided by Diana Adcock
Categories Quick Breads
Time 1h20m
Yield 1 loaf
Number Of Ingredients 13
Steps:
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
- Grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
- Combine the sugar and oil in a large bowl and beat well with an electric mixer for best results.
- Add eggs and beat well.
- Beat in sour cream and vanilla.
- Sift together the flour, soda, salt, cinnamon and nutmeg.
- Beat into the sour cream mixture in 2 lots.
- Stir in pears, pecans and lemon peel.
- Scrape into loaf pan and level off the top.
- Bake for 1 hour and test with a toothpick in the center.
- If done, remove and let cool on a rack for 20 minutes.
- Turn out onto rack and cool completly.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 3625.4, Fat 191.7, SaturatedFat 29.5, Cholesterol 401.9, Sodium 2619.4, Carbohydrate 443.8, Fiber 23, Sugar 230.3, Protein 48.1
Tips:
- Choose ripe pears: Use ripe, juicy pears for the best flavor and texture.
- Peel and core the pears: Peel and core the pears before grating them. This will help remove any unwanted bitterness from the skin and seeds.
- Grate the pears finely: Finely grate the pears so that they blend seamlessly into the bread batter.
- Use a combination of flours: Using a combination of all-purpose flour and whole wheat flour gives the bread a slightly nutty flavor and a denser texture.
- Add spices for extra flavor: Add a mixture of cinnamon, cardamom, and nutmeg to the bread batter for a warm and inviting aroma.
- Don't overmix the batter: Overmixing the batter can result in a tough, dense loaf of bread. Mix just until the ingredients are well combined.
- Bake until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean: This is the best way to ensure that the bread is cooked through.
Conclusion:
Birnbrot, or Swiss pear bread, is a delicious and versatile treat that can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or snack. It is easy to make and uses simple ingredients. With its moist, tender texture and sweet, slightly spicy flavor, this bread is sure to be a hit with everyone who tries it. Whether you serve it plain, toasted, or topped with your favorite spread, Birnbrot is a delicious and satisfying bread that is perfect for any occasion.
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