Star of the East Fruit Bread

Star of the East Fruit Bread Recipe - Delicious and Unique Fruit Bread

| Servings: 12

Introduction

Star of the East Fruit Bread is a delightful and flavorful bread that is perfect for breakfast or as a snack. Packed with bananas, cherries, mandarin oranges, figs, and chocolate chips, this bread is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

History

The Star of the East Fruit Bread recipe has been passed down through generations in many families. It is a beloved recipe that is often made during the holiday season or for special occasions. The combination of fruits and chocolate chips gives this bread a unique and delicious flavor that is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

Ingredients

0.5 cup (1 stick) softened butter or margarine
1 cup sugar
2 eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
0.25 tsp salt
1 cup mashed ripe banana (about 3 medium)
0.5 cup chopped well-drained maraschino cherries
1 can (11 oz (312 g)) well-drained mandarin orange segments
0.5 cup chopped dates or Calimyrna figs
1 cup HERSHEY'S semi-sweet chocolate chips
cocoa glaze (recipe follows)

How to prepare

Melt 2 tbsp of butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir in 2 tbsp of light corn syrup.
Add 3 tbsp of water and 3 tbsp of HERSHEY'S Dutch Processed cocoa. Cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened.
Remove from heat and stir in 2 tsp of vanilla.
Gradually stir in 1.5 cups of powdered sugar, beating until desired consistency is achieved.

Variations

Swap out the chocolate chips for white chocolate chips or nuts for a different flavor profile.
Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm and spicy twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use ripe bananas for the best flavor and texture in this bread.

- Drain the maraschino cherries and mandarin orange segments well before adding them to the batter to prevent excess moisture.

- Be sure to chop the figs and cherries into small pieces to ensure even distribution throughout the bread.

- Do not overmix the batter, as this can result in a tough and dense bread.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy a slice of Star of the East Fruit Bread with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a cozy and comforting snack.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to preheat your oven before baking the bread to ensure even cooking.

- Use a toothpick to test for doneness - if it comes out clean, the bread is ready.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use margarine or butter interchangeably in this recipe.

- Feel free to use any type of dried fruit in place of the figs, such as raisins or apricots.

Make Ahead Tips

Star of the East Fruit Bread can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months.

Presentation Ideas

Serve slices of Star of the East Fruit Bread on a decorative platter with a dusting of powdered sugar for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

This bread pairs well with a cup of hot cocoa or a glass of milk for a delicious and satisfying treat.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Star of the East Fruit Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave a slice for 10-15 seconds or toast it in a toaster oven.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Star of the East Fruit Bread contains approximately 220 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Star of the East Fruit Bread contains approximately 35 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Star of the East Fruit Bread contains approximately 8 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Star of the East Fruit Bread contains approximately 3 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

This bread is a good source of vitamin C from the mandarin oranges and cherries. It also contains potassium from the bananas and figs.

Alergens

This recipe contains eggs, wheat, and dairy (chocolate chips), which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Star of the East Fruit Bread is a delicious and nutritious treat that is perfect for breakfast or as a snack. It is packed with fruits and chocolate chips, making it a flavorful and satisfying option for any time of day.

Summary

Star of the East Fruit Bread is a delightful and flavorful bread that is perfect for any time of day. Packed with fruits and chocolate chips, this bread is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy a slice with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy and comforting snack.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl visiting my aunt in the countryside. My aunt was an excellent cook, known throughout the community for her delicious baked goods. One day, as I sat in her sunny kitchen watching her work her magic, she handed me a worn and stained recipe card.

"Here, dear," she said with a twinkle in her eye. "This is a special recipe that has been passed down through our family for generations. It's called Star of the East Fruit Bread. I think you'll enjoy making it."

I eagerly took the card and studied the ingredients and instructions. The combination of dried fruits, nuts, and spices sounded intriguing, and I couldn't wait to try it out for myself. My aunt patiently guided me through the process, showing me how to knead the dough and shape it into a festive star shape.

As the bread baked in the oven, filling the kitchen with the warm, spicy scent of cinnamon and nutmeg, I knew I had found something truly special. When my aunt sliced into the loaf and we each took a bite, I was in heaven. The sweet, fruity flavors danced on my tongue, and I knew that this recipe would become a favorite in my own kitchen.

Over the years, I made Star of the East Fruit Bread for every special occasion – birthdays, holidays, and family gatherings. Each time, it brought back memories of that day in my aunt's kitchen and the joy of discovering a new recipe to add to my repertoire.

As I grew older and started a family of my own, I continued to make the bread, passing down the recipe to my children and grandchildren. It became a beloved tradition, a symbol of love and togetherness that we shared around the table.

But the recipe didn't stop there. Over the years, I collected new versions of Star of the East Fruit Bread from friends, neighbors, and even strangers I met along the way. Each one had their own twist on the classic recipe – adding different fruits, experimenting with spices, or shaping the bread in unique ways.

I remember the day I met an elderly woman at the farmer's market who shared her family's recipe for Star of the East Fruit Bread with me. She told me stories of baking the bread with her grandmother as a child, and how it had been a staple in their home for generations. I listened intently, soaking up every detail and committing it to memory.

When I returned home, I couldn't wait to try out the new recipe. The bread turned out beautifully, with a slightly different flavor profile than the one I had grown up with. It was a testament to the versatility of the recipe and the endless possibilities for creativity in the kitchen.

As the years passed, I continued to collect variations of Star of the East Fruit Bread, each one adding a new layer of depth and richness to the dish. I cherished each recipe, carefully noting the source and the story behind it in my old recipe book.

Now, as I sit in my own sunny kitchen, surrounded by the laughter of my family and the aromas of baking bread, I am grateful for the journey that led me to this recipe. It has become more than just a dish – it is a connection to my past, a link to my loved ones, and a source of joy and comfort in my life.

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time will always bring a smile to my face. It is a reminder of the power of food to bring people together, to create memories, and to nourish both body and soul. And for that, I am eternally grateful.