Harvest Loaf Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour, sifted
• 1 cup whole wheat flour for nutty richness
• ½ cup rolled oats, adding texture
• ¼ cup brown sugar, for a subtle sweetness
• 1 tsp baking soda, for lift
• 1 tsp baking powder, to help rise
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon, for warming spice
• ½ tsp ground nutmeg, deepening autumnal aroma
• ½ tsp salt, to balance flavors
• 1 cup chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts), for crunch
• 1 cup mixed dried fruits (raisins, cranberries, apricots), for bursts of natural sweetness
• 1 ½ cups buttermilk, room temperature, lends tang and tenderness
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten, provide structure and moisture
• ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled for richness
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract, for subtle depth
• Zest of one orange to brighten the flavor
• 2 tbsp honey for added natural sweetness
• ½ cup shredded carrot or apple for extra moisture and texture
• 1 tbsp chia or flax seeds for nutritious crunch