James Beard Persimmon Bread Recipe That Tastes Amazing

Persimmon bread is a delightful autumnal treat that captures the essence of the season in every moist, flavorful slice. Celebrated culinary icon James Beard crafted a persimmon bread recipe that has stood the test of time, combining ripe persimmons with warming spices and nuts to create a tender, richly textured loaf.

Whether you’re an experienced baker or just looking to try something new with seasonal fruit, this recipe is approachable and rewarding.

Persimmons, when perfectly ripe, bring a natural sweetness and subtle complexity to baked goods. James Beard’s persimmon bread is no exception, offering a comforting aroma and a wonderful balance of flavors that make it perfect for breakfast, a snack, or a cozy dessert.

In this post, we’ll explore the ingredients, equipment, step-by-step instructions, and tips to master this classic recipe in your own kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This persimmon bread recipe is beloved for several reasons. First, it uses fresh persimmons, which impart a unique, fruity sweetness that’s difficult to replicate with other fruits.

The texture is wonderfully moist and tender, thanks to the combination of persimmon pulp and oil. James Beard’s recipe skillfully incorporates warm spices and crunchy nuts, making every bite complex and satisfying.

It’s also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with your choice of nuts or add-ins like raisins or chocolate chips.

The bread freezes well, so you can prepare ahead and enjoy it over time. Whether you’re baking for a fall gathering or simply want a comforting homemade treat, this persimmon bread will quickly become a favorite.

Ingredients

• 1 cup persimmon pulp (from 2-3 ripe persimmons)
• 2 teaspoons baking soda
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 cup sugar (can reduce slightly if preferred)
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
• Optional: 1/2 cup raisins or dried cranberries

Equipment

• Mixing bowls (one large and one medium)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Hand mixer or stand mixer (optional but helpful)
• Wooden spoon or rubber spatula
• 9×5 inch loaf pan
• Cooling rack
• Knife for checking doneness

Instructions

1. Prepare the persimmon pulp: Wash ripe persimmons (Fuyu or Hachiya varieties work well). Remove the stems and scoop out the soft pulp into a bowl. Mash lightly with a fork or spoon until smooth. Measure out 1 cup for the recipe.
2. Mix baking soda with persimmon pulp: Sprinkle the baking soda over the persimmon pulp and stir well. Set aside for about 10 minutes. This helps activate the baking soda for better rise and texture.
3. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C): Grease the loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
4. Combine dry ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together the flour, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This ensures even distribution of the spices and leavening agents.
5. Cream sugar and oil: In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar and vegetable oil until well combined. Add eggs one at a time, beating after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
6. Mix wet and dry ingredients: Add the persimmon pulp mixture to the wet ingredients and stir until blended. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing just until combined; avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.
7. Add nuts and optional dried fruit: Gently fold in the chopped walnuts or pecans and any raisins or dried cranberries, if using.
8. Pour batter into the prepared pan: Spread evenly and smooth the top with a spatula.
9. Bake: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 60-70 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick or knife into the center; it should come out clean.
10. Cool and serve: Remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a cooling rack to cool completely before slicing.

Tips & Variations

“If your persimmons aren’t ripe enough, the bread will lack its signature sweetness and moisture. Always use very soft, ripe persimmons for the best results.”

Use ripe Hachiya persimmons if you want a sweeter, more custardy pulp, but Fuyu persimmons also work well if fully ripe. For a nut-free version, simply omit the nuts or substitute with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds.

Try adding a teaspoon of ground ginger or cloves for a spicier autumn flavor. Swirling in some cream cheese or vegan cream cheese before baking can create a luscious marbled effect.

For gluten-free options, substitute the flour with a blend designed for baking, keeping an eye on moisture levels.

To make this recipe vegan, replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg) and use a plant-based oil.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This persimmon bread is delicious served warm or at room temperature. For breakfast, try it toasted with a pat of butter or cream cheese.

It also pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or spiced cider.

For an indulgent dessert, serve slices with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup and a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. Leftover bread can be used to make decadent bread pudding or French toast with an autumnal twist.

Looking for more delicious baked goods or vegan treats? Check out our Clementine Bakery Vegan Recipes for Delicious Treats and Berry Cobbler Recipe Vegan: Easy, Delicious, and Healthy for more inspiration.

Conclusion

James Beard’s persimmon bread recipe is a timeless classic that brings the flavors of fall right into your kitchen. Its moist texture, aromatic spices, and natural sweetness from ripe persimmons make it a comforting and satisfying treat perfect for any occasion.

Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or toasted the next day, this bread is sure to delight your family and friends.

By following the simple instructions and tips in this post, you can easily recreate this iconic recipe and customize it to your taste preferences. Don’t hesitate to experiment with nuts, dried fruits, or even a vegan version to make it your own.

For more easy and delicious recipes, explore our collection such as the Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious. Happy baking!

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