Are you craving a warm, comforting dessert that's as delicious as it is easy to make? Look no further! This Apple Cinnamon Streusel Loaf is the perfect blend of sweet apples, fragrant cinnamon, and a crunchy streusel topping that will make your kitchen smell like autumn itself. It's the ideal recipe for busy weeknights, weekend baking, or impressing your guests with a homemade treat. This easy recipe is perfect for both beginner bakers and seasoned pros, promising a delicious and satisfying result every time. Get ready to experience the ultimate in homemade comfort food!
Ingredients:
For the Loaf:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 ½ cups peeled and diced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp recommended)
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
For the Streusel Topping:
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup rolled oats
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 6 tablespoons (3 ounces) cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Instructions:
Getting Started:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x5 inch loaf pan. This ensures your loaf will easily slide out once baked.
Making the Loaf:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step incorporates air for a lighter loaf.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Don't overmix!
- Gently fold in the applesauce, diced apples, and cinnamon.
Preparing the Streusel Topping:
- In a separate bowl, combine the flour, oats, brown sugar, nuts (if using), and cinnamon for the streusel.
- Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Baking the Loaf:
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
- Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the batter.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for the Best Apple Cinnamon Streusel Loaf:
- Use a mix of apple varieties for a more complex flavor profile.
- Don't overmix the batter, as this can lead to a tough loaf.
- For a crispier streusel, bake the loaf for a few extra minutes.
- Store leftover loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Variations:
- Add a cup of raisins or cranberries to the batter for extra sweetness and texture.
- Substitute different nuts, such as almonds or hazelnuts, in the streusel.
- Drizzle a simple glaze made with powdered sugar and milk over the cooled loaf.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 Fat: 18-20g Saturated Fat: 10-12g Carbohydrates: 45-50g Sugar: 25-30g Protein: 4-5g
Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
This Apple Cinnamon Streusel Loaf is a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the delicious aroma and satisfying taste of this easy-to-make recipe! It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a wonderful addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. Happy baking!