Fruit Bread II

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup butter, melted
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
• 1/2 cup raisins or other dried fruit (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease an 8x4 inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then stir in the vanilla. Combine the salt, baking powder, and flour; stir into the batter until well blended. Fold in the nuts and dried fruit, if desired.
3. Spread evenly into the prepared pan.
4. Bake for 55 to 60 minutes in the preheated oven, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean.
5. Let bread cool in pan for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack.

Interesting Facts

• Fruit breads are a popular variety of quick breads. They can be sweet or savory, and are often served with tea or coffee.
• Fruit breads can be made with a variety of fruits, including apples, cranberries, raisins, dates, and nuts.
• Fruit breads are a great way to use up overripe fruits and nuts that you may have on hand.