Fruit Bread conjures up visions of old-fashioned fruit cake that is hard as a rock and entire communities have contests to see how far they can chuck the cake. NOT the case with this Fruit Bread recipe.  In fact, it is really a banana bread with chocolate chips and chopped cherries.  It makes a festive bread to give or to serve during the holidays.

This recipe originated with my Aunt Joyce.  When I was younger, she made it every Christmas and it quickly became a family, and personal tradition.  Each year I make several batches and give to family and friends.   I hope that you’ll try the bread and it will become one of your traditions!

FRUIT BREAD

Double or triple the recipe to make several loaves.

1/2 cup butter
1 cup sugar
2 eggs
2 cups flour (plus 2 T. if baking at high altitude)
1 tsp. baking soda
1 cup mashed banana
1/2 cup maraschino cherries
1/4 cup chocolate chips

Cream butter & sugar. Add eggs & beat well.  Sift baking soda & flour; add to egg mixture alternatively with mashed bananas.  Stir in remaining ingredients.  Pour into greased loaf pan and bake at 350 degrees for 1 hour.