Are you craving a warm, comforting treat that's both healthy and satisfying? Look no further! This apple walnut bread recipe is the perfect answer. It's incredibly easy to make, even for beginner bakers, and the delicious aroma filling your kitchen during baking will be irresistible. This recipe is perfect for a cozy weekend afternoon, a special breakfast, or a simple yet impressive dessert. Prepare to be amazed by how simple it is to create this delicious homemade bread!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup applesauce
- 1 cup chopped walnuts
- 1 cup peeled and chopped apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp recommended)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x5 inch loaf pan. This ensures your bread will slide out easily once baked.
Step 2: Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This combines the dry ingredients evenly, preventing clumps in your batter.
Step 3: Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract and applesauce.
Step 4: Combine
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
Step 5: Add the Good Stuff
Fold in the chopped walnuts and apples. The apples will add moisture and a delightful sweetness to the bread.
Step 6: Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool and Enjoy
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents sticking and ensures even cooling. Slice and serve!
Tips for the Best Apple Walnut Bread:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Using softened butter and room-temperature eggs helps create a smoother batter.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing can lead to a tough bread. Mix until just combined.
- Apple Variety: Granny Smith apples provide a tartness that balances the sweetness, but Honeycrisp or a mix of varieties work well too.
- Toasted Walnuts: For extra flavor and crunch, toast the walnuts in a dry skillet before adding them to the batter.
Variations:
- Spiced it Up: Add a pinch of cardamom or allspice for a warm, aromatic twist.
- Cranberry Walnut Bread: Substitute dried cranberries for some of the apples for a festive twist.
- Maple Glaze: Brush a simple maple glaze over the cooled bread for extra sweetness.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 250-300 Fat: 10-15g Carbohydrates: 35-40g Protein: 4-5g
Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients used.
This apple walnut bread recipe offers a fantastic opportunity to enjoy healthy and delicious homemade baking. It's perfect for any occasion, whether it's a simple weeknight treat or a special celebration. The ease of preparation and the delightful taste will make it a new favorite in your kitchen!