This bread is a versatile, easy-to-make crowd-pleaser, delicately laced with Grand Marnier and studded with tart dried cranberries and orange zest. You can vary the size: Make 2 large loaves, or spread the joy with 6 mini loaves.
Wonderfully generous with the rosemary, with support from a little black pepper and Italian seasoning, this bread comes out light and fragrant from the bread machine.
A friend of mine graciously shared her 'secret recipe' for this bread with me. It's become such a family favorite that I'm not allowed to enter my family's get-togethers without this bread in hand!
'WE BAKED at least two batches of bread each week for our family of six. We also spent hours (or so it seemed) churning the butter to spread on it, which we especially loved to do while it was still warm. Fried chicken never tasted quite as good without homemade bread-and-butter sandwiches.'
My friends and family thoroughly enjoy this old-fashioned bread. The mellow flavor of pears is a refreshing change of pace from more traditional apples.
I got this recipe a long time ago and with a few changes it's become one of our favorites. Everyone who's ever tasted this bread has asked for the recipe!