Persimmon Nut Bread

Prep Time: 1½ Hours
Yields: 1 Loaf

Comment:
Persimmons are no different from any other fruit. Before their peak of ripeness, they can be bitter and astringent. However, once ripe and soft to the touch, this fruit explodes with a sweet, sugary flavor. Persimmons are perfect for jams, jellies and breads.

Ingredients:
1½ cups mashed persimmons
1 cup chopped pecans
2 cups flour
1½ tsps baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
2 eggs
5 tbsps butter
¼ cup buttermilk
1 tsp lemon juice
½ cup sugar
¼ tsp salt

Method:
Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease and flour a standard loaf pan. In a large mixing bowl, sift together flour, baking powder and baking soda. Set aside. In an electric mixer, food processor or blender, combine persimmons, eggs, butter, buttermilk, lemon juice, sugar and salt. Blend until smooth. Slowly add flour mixture, continuing to mix. Fold in nuts. Pour batter into pan and bake 1 hour 25 minutes or until toothpick inserted in bread comes out clean.