There’s something truly magical about the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through the house. Imagine a cozy afternoon, maybe a chilly autumn day, when you can warm up with a slice of homemade Double-Apple Walnut Bread. This recipe isn’t just about bread; it’s about creating memories—much like those sweet moments spent in the kitchen with family, where stories are shared and laughter resonates. Inspired by traditional family recipes, this delight brings together the sweetness of apples and the heartiness of walnuts for a treat that’s both comforting and unique.
This bread is special not only for its delicious flavor but also for its effortless preparation. It’s perfect for a casual brunch or as a delightful centerpiece for your holiday table. Plus, it makes for a delightful housewarming gift! As soon as you slice into this warm, moist loaf, you’ll understand why it deserves a spot in your recipe repertoire.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
What makes this Double-Apple Walnut Bread a crowd-pleaser? First off, it’s incredibly easy to whip up. Even if you’re a novice baker, the straightforward steps and minimal fuss mean you can focus more on enjoying the process than stressing over difficult techniques.
The combination of two types of apples—fresh and dried—creates a layered flavor profile that dances on your palate. The walnuts provide a satisfying crunch, while the cinnamon adds a warm, comforting spice. Each slice feels like a hug, perfect for any time of the year.
Plus, this recipe is quite adaptable! Whether you prefer a nut-free version, want to make it vegan, or plan to swap some ingredients to suit dietary needs, the possibilities are endless!
What Does The Recipe Taste Like
Picture biting into a warm slice of bread that has a soft, fluffy texture generously dotted with sweet and tart apple pieces, combined with the nutty crunch of walnuts. The cinnamon and nutmeg give it that cozy, warm feeling, reminiscent of autumn, while the hint of vanilla ties it all together. It’s not overly sweet but perfectly balanced, making it not just a treat, but a satisfying snack any time of the day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you get started, let’s gather all the ingredients for your Double-Apple Walnut Bread:
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: This forms the structure of the bread, providing a light and fluffy texture.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: This will help the bread rise, creating a light crumb.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and depth to the overall flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg: This complements the cinnamon, bringing a lovely spiciness.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances all the flavors for a delicious result.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Provides sweetness, which perfectly complements the apples.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar: Adds a rich, caramel-like sweetness.
- 2 large eggs: Binds ingredients together while contributing to the moisture in the bread.
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil: Keeps the bread moist and tender.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a delightful depth of flavor.
- 1 cup fresh apples, peeled and diced: The star of the recipe, offering sweetness and moisture.
- 1/2 cup dried apples, chopped: Provides a concentrated apple flavor and interesting texture.
- 1 cup walnuts, chopped: Adds a nutty crunch and boosts the bread’s heartiness.
Optional Additions
If you want to add your personal touch, consider these variations:
- Spices: For a spicier kick, add a pinch of ground ginger or cloves.
- Fruit: Dried cranberries or raisins could bring an extra pop of color and flavor.
- Different nuts: Almonds or pecans would be a great alternative to walnuts.
Special Garnishes
Garnishing your Double-Apple Walnut Bread can elevate its presentation:
- Powdered sugar: A dusting adds a touch of elegance and sweetness.
- Apple slices: Thinly sliced apples placed on top can enhance the visual appeal.
- Cinnamon sugar: A sprinkle on top before baking can create a crunchy topping.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now, let’s dive into the baking process! Follow these straightforward steps for best results:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- In a large bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined.
- Add the diced fresh apples, dried apples, and chopped walnuts into the batter. Mix carefully until evenly distributed.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Once done, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Recipe Variations
Feel free to experiment with this recipe depending on your preferences and dietary needs. You can make this bread gluten-free by swapping regular flour for a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. If you’re looking for a healthier option, consider substituting applesauce for oil. Want to emphasize the apple flavor? Try using different varieties like Granny Smith for tartness or Honeycrisp for additional sweetness.
Serving and Storage Tips
This Double-Apple Walnut Bread is ideal for serving warm, about 15-20 minutes after it’s cooled. To serve, slice it up and enjoy plain, or spread some cream cheese for a richer bite. For added flair, serve it with a warm cup of cider or tea.
Storing this bread is easy too! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It can last up to a week at room temperature. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to three months. Just thaw it in the refrigerator before enjoying it again!
Helpful Tips
- Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature for better blending.
- Don’t overmix the batter; it’s okay if some lumps remain. This will ensure a tender loaf.
- Adjust the baking time as needed based on your oven, as some ovens may run hotter or cooler.
Special Equipment
You don’t need much to make this delicious bread! Here’s a simple list of tools you’ll find handy:
- Loaf pan: A standard 9×5-inch loaf pan will work perfectly.
- Mixing bowls: Two mixing bowls (one large and one medium) will suffice.
- Whisk and spatula: Essential tools for mixing your ingredients effectively.
- Cooling rack: An absolute must for cooling your bread evenly after baking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other fruits in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute pears, or even add a handful of mixed berries for a different flavor profile.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can replace the eggs with flaxseed meal or unsweetened applesauce, and use a plant-based oil instead of vegetable oil to keep it vegan.
How do I prevent my bread from getting hard?
To keep your bread soft, always wrap it tightly when storing. If you notice it becoming dry, you can warm it up slightly in the oven before serving.
What should I do if the bread is too moist inside?
If your bread turns out too moist, consider reducing the amount of wet ingredients slightly or ensuring you’re measuring them accurately next time. Additionally, checking your oven temperature with a thermometer can help to ensure it’s baking accurately.
Conclusion
The Double-Apple Walnut Bread is more than just a recipe; it’s about creating an experience that warms the heart and brings people together. With its irresistible flavor and easy preparation, you’ll find yourself returning to this bread again and again, whether for a festive gathering or a quiet evening at home. Be sure to share your bread-baking adventures in the comments! Your personal touches or adaptations could inspire others to create their unique version. Remember, the real joy of baking lies not just in the finished product but in the cherished moments shared over a simple loaf of bread.
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Irresistible DoubleApple Walnut Bread Recipe for Baking Lovers
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf 1x
Description
Discover an irresistible recipe for DoubleApple Walnut Bread Perfect for baking lovers this dish combines sweet apples and crunchy walnuts
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- minutes: 10
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Category: Baked Goods
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 250 calories
- Sugar: 18 grams
- Fat: 10 grams
- Carbohydrates: 40 grams
- Fiber: 2 grams
- Protein: 4 grams
