Ingredients

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened, plus more for greasing
• 2 cups (spoon and sweep) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granola
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/3 cup sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 eggs, room temperature
• 2/3 cup milk
• 2 ripe pears, cut into 1/2-inch chunks
• 1 cup toasted nuts (optional)
• 1 cup confectioners' sugar
• 3 tablespoons heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon pear brandy (or rum)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• Pinch salt

Instructions

1. Making the bread: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Grease a 9- by 5-inch loaf pan with butter.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granola, baking powder, sugar, salt, and spices.
3. Cream together the butter and brown sugar, until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, scraping down the bowl after each one. Alternate adding the flour and milk, in 3 additions, mixing just to incorporate after each addition. Fold in the pears and nuts, if using.
4. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
5. Bake for about 1 hour 15 minutes, or until a tester comes out clean.
6. Remove from pan and cool to room temperature.
7. Make the icing: In a small bowl combine all the ingredients until smooth.
8. Spread over the top of the cooled bread.
9. Enjoy. Makes a great breakfast.