They’re a warm embrace, a reminder of cozy autumn days, and a celebration of the season’s bounty. Easy Harvest Spice Bread is one such treat. This moist, fragrant loaf is a delightful blend of warm spices, sweet molasses, and hearty whole grains, making it perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or even dessert. Imagine the aroma of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves wafting through your kitchen as the bread bakes to golden perfection. It’s a recipe that feels like home, whether you’re enjoying it with a cup of tea on a crisp fall morning or sharing it with loved ones during the holidays.

The first time I made this bread, it was for a fall potluck at work. I wanted to bring something that captured the essence of the season, and this recipe caught my eye. As the bread baked, the scent of spices filled the air, and my coworkers couldn’t stop asking, “What’s that amazing smell?” When I finally unveiled the loaf, it was met with eager anticipation. “This tastes like autumn in every bite!” a colleague exclaimed, reaching for a second slice. Since then, Easy Harvest Spice Bread has become a staple in my fall baking repertoire.

The first time I served this bread to my family, it was during a weekend brunch. My niece, who’s notoriously picky, eyed the loaf skeptically. “What’s in it?” she asked, poking at a slice. “Just try it,” I urged. She took a small bite, then another, and before I knew it, she’d polished off the entire slice. “Can we make this again?” she asked, her mouth still full. That day, Easy Harvest Spice Bread became a family favorite, and it’s been a regular treat ever since.

Why This Easy Harvest Spice Bread?

Selling Points:

• Warm and Comforting: The blend of spices and molasses creates a cozy, autumnal flavor that’s perfect for the season.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples, this recipe is easy to whip up anytime.
• Versatile: Enjoy it for breakfast, as a snack, or as a dessert with a dollop of whipped cream.
• Customizable: Add nuts, dried fruit, or a glaze to make it your own.

What You Need for Easy Harvest Spice Bread

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup whole wheat flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup molasses
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

How to Make Easy Harvest Spice Bread

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
3. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add Wet Ingredients: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the molasses, buttermilk, and vanilla extract.
5. Combine: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
6. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cool: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips for the Perfect Harvest Spice Bread

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter, eggs, and buttermilk are at room temperature for even mixing.
• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf. Mix until just combined.
• Check for Doneness: Oven temperatures vary, so start checking the bread at the 50-minute mark.
• Storage: Wrap the cooled bread in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to keep it moist.

Substitutions and Variations

• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose and whole wheat flour.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute the butter with coconut oil and use a non-dairy milk mixed with 1 tbsp vinegar in place of buttermilk.
• Add-Ins: Stir in 1/2 cup of chopped nuts, raisins, or dried cranberries for extra texture and flavor.
• Glaze: Drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk for a sweeter touch.

Make a Healthier Version

• Whole Grains: Use all whole wheat flour or a mix of whole wheat and oat flour for added fiber.
• Reduce Sugar: Cut the sugar by 1/4 cup and add an extra 1/4 cup of applesauce for natural sweetness.
• Healthy Fats: Replace half the butter with unsweetened applesauce or mashed banana.

Closing for Easy Harvest Spice Bread

This Easy Harvest Spice Bread is more than just a recipe—it’s a celebration of fall flavors and the joy of baking. Whether you’re enjoying it with your morning coffee or sharing it with friends and family, this bread is sure to bring warmth and happiness to your table. Don’t forget to let us know how your loaf turns out, and consider checking out some of our other recipes for more seasonal inspiration. Happy baking!

Frequently Asked Questions For Easy Harvest Spice Bread

Can I make this bread ahead of time?
Yes, this bread stays moist for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container.

Can I freeze this bread?
Absolutely! Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.

Can I use a different type of flour?
Yes, you can use all-purpose flour exclusively or experiment with other flours like spelt or rye.

Can I make this vegan?
Yes, use plant-based butter, flax eggs, and a non-dairy buttermilk substitute.

Can I add other spices?
Yes, try adding a pinch of ginger or allspice for extra warmth.

How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Can I make muffins instead of a loaf?
Yes, pour the batter into a muffin tin and bake for 20-25 minutes.

What’s the best way to serve this bread?
Serve it warm with a pat of butter, a drizzle of honey, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar.

This Easy Harvest Spice Bread is a testament to the magic of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly special. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is a must-try. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a loaf that’s sure to become a seasonal favorite. Happy baking!

Easy Harvest Spice Bread

Recipe by Aisha DevCourse: All Recipes

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

30

minutes

Cooking time

40

minutes

Calories

300

kcal

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 cup whole wheat flour

• 1 tsp baking soda

• 1/2 tsp baking powder

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg

• 1/4 tsp ground cloves

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar

• 1/2 cup brown sugar

• 2 large eggs

• 1/2 cup molasses

• 1 cup buttermilk

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Directions

• Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
• Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
• Cream Butter and Sugars: In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
• Add Wet Ingredients: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the molasses, buttermilk, and vanilla extract.
• Combine: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
• Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
• Cool: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.