Apple Butter Bread

Apple Butter Bread Recipe - Delicious Homemade Bread from USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 55-65 minutes | Servings: 8-10

Introduction

Apple Butter Bread is a delightful and comforting recipe that combines the rich, spiced flavors of apple butter with the wholesome goodness of whole wheat flour. This bread is perfect for breakfast, as a snack, or even as a dessert. Its moist texture and deep apple flavor make it a favorite among both kids and adults. Whether you're a seasoned baker or new to the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward and promises delicious results.

History

The tradition of making apple butter dates back to the Middle Ages in Europe, but it found a particular home in America, especially in the Appalachian and Midwestern regions, where apples were abundant. Apple butter was a way to preserve apples through the winter. Incorporating apple butter into bread recipes is a more modern twist, combining the preservation techniques of the past with the comforts of home baking. This Apple Butter Bread recipe is a celebration of those traditions, bringing the rich history of apple butter into a simple, delicious loaf.

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour (I used half whole wheat flour)
1 cup brown sugar
1.5 tsp baking powder
0.5 tsp baking soda
0.5 tsp salt
1.5 cups apple butter (divided)
0.5 cup apple juice
0.25 cup melted butter
1 beaten egg
1 cup raisins (optional)
0.5 cup chopped walnuts

How to prepare

In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In a small bowl, mix together 0.75 cup of apple butter, apple juice, butter, and egg.
Fold in the raisins and chopped nuts.
Add the apple butter mixture to the dry ingredients and blend together.
Pour half of the mixture into a loaf pan that has been sprayed with cooking spray.
Gently spread the reserved 0.75 cup of apple butter over the batter.
Pour the remaining batter over the apple butter mixture and spread it evenly to cover.
Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 55 to 65 minutes or until done.
To make "my mistake loaf", simply put all the apple butter in the wet ingredients and blend it into the dry ingredients.
Instead of raisins, cut up dried pineapple pieces and add them with the nuts.
Pour the entire batter into the loaf pan and bake as instructed above.

Variations

Consider adding spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice to the batter for extra warmth and flavor. For a nut-free version, omit the walnuts or replace them with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower. You can also experiment with different dried fruits, such as cranberries or apricots, instead of raisins.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

For the best results, use homemade apple butter if available. Its rich flavor is unmatched. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting. This helps with the mixing process and ensures a more consistent bake. When mixing the wet and dry ingredients, fold them together gently to keep the bread tender. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf. Lastly, check the bread for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, the bread is ready.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Apple Butter Bread warm with a spread of cream cheese or a drizzle of honey for added sweetness. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee in the morning or a glass of milk for an evening treat.

Cooking Techniques

For an even bake, rotate the loaf pan halfway through the cooking time. If the top of the bread is browning too quickly, tent it with aluminum foil to prevent burning while allowing the inside to continue cooking.

Ingredient Substitutions

If whole wheat flour is not available, use all-purpose flour or a mix of both. Maple syrup or honey can replace brown sugar for a different flavor profile. For a dairy-free version, use a plant-based butter alternative.

Make Ahead Tips

This bread can be made ahead and frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap the cooled loaf in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw overnight at room temperature when ready to serve.

Presentation Ideas

Slice the bread and arrange it on a wooden board for a rustic look. Garnish with fresh apple slices and a sprinkle of cinnamon for an inviting presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Apple Butter Bread pairs beautifully with sharp cheddar cheese or a soft brie for a savory contrast. For a beverage pairing, try a spiced apple cider or a robust black tea.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, warm slices in a toaster oven or microwave briefly.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of this bread contains approximately 250 calories. The calories are derived from a balanced mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, making it a satisfying and energy-providing snack or breakfast option.

Carbohydrates

A single serving of Apple Butter Bread contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates. The primary sources of carbohydrates in this recipe are whole wheat flour and brown sugar, providing a mix of complex and simple carbohydrates. The apple butter and apple juice also contribute natural sugars and additional carbs.

Fats

This recipe contains about 7 grams of fat per serving. The fats come from the melted butter and chopped walnuts included in the recipe. These ingredients contribute to the bread's moist texture and rich flavor while providing a small amount of healthy fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Apple Butter Bread offers around 4 grams of protein. The protein sources in this recipe are primarily the whole wheat flour and the egg. While not high in protein, this bread can be part of a balanced meal when paired with other protein sources.

Vitamins and minerals

Apple Butter Bread is a good source of several vitamins and minerals, including iron, calcium, and potassium. The whole wheat flour contributes to the iron and calcium content, while the apple butter and apple juice provide potassium. Additionally, the nuts add a boost of magnesium and vitamin E.

Alergens

This recipe contains common allergens: wheat (gluten), eggs, dairy (butter), and nuts (walnuts). Individuals with allergies to these ingredients should modify the recipe accordingly or avoid it.

Summary

Overall, Apple Butter Bread is a nutritious option that provides energy through carbohydrates, healthy fats, and a moderate amount of protein. It also offers essential vitamins and minerals, making it a wholesome choice for a variety of meals.

Summary

Apple Butter Bread is a versatile and delicious recipe that celebrates the flavors of fall. With its rich history and nutritious profile, it's a wonderful addition to any meal. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or as a make-ahead option, this bread is sure to become a cherished recipe in your collection.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I knew it was something I had to make. The idea of combining the rich, comforting flavors of apple butter with the soft, pillowy texture of freshly baked bread was simply irresistible to me. I had always loved baking, and the thought of creating something as delicious and unique as Apple Butter Bread was enough to make my mouth water.

I first came across the recipe for Apple Butter Bread in an old cookbook that I found while rummaging through a box of my grandmother's belongings. The pages were yellowed and stained with age, but the words were still clear and legible. As I read through the ingredients and instructions, I could practically taste the warm, spicy sweetness of the apple butter mingling with the tender crumb of the bread.

I knew that I had to make this bread, and so I set about gathering the necessary ingredients. I already had a jar of homemade apple butter that I had canned myself the previous fall, so that was one less thing to worry about. I measured out flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon, and set them aside in a mixing bowl.

Next, I combined the wet ingredients – milk, melted butter, and a beaten egg – in a separate bowl, whisking them together until they were well blended. Then, I added the apple butter to the mixture, stirring it in until it was fully incorporated. The scent of apples and spices filled the air, making my kitchen feel warm and cozy.

With the wet ingredients and the dry ingredients prepared, it was time to bring them together. I poured the wet mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients, and gently folded everything together until just combined. I didn't want to overmix the batter, as that would make the bread tough and dense. As soon as the flour was incorporated, I stopped stirring and poured the batter into a greased loaf pan.

I slid the pan into the oven, the anticipation building as the scent of baking bread began to waft through the kitchen. I couldn't wait to see how the bread would turn out – would it be as delicious as I had imagined? As the minutes ticked by, I watched through the oven window, willing the bread to rise and brown to perfection.

Finally, after what felt like an eternity, the timer dinged, signaling that the bread was done. I carefully removed the loaf from the oven, the top golden brown and the sides pulling away from the pan slightly. I knew that it was cooked through when I tapped the bottom and it sounded hollow.

I let the bread cool for a few minutes before turning it out onto a wire rack to finish cooling. The aroma that filled the kitchen was irresistible – warm apples, cinnamon, and freshly baked bread. I couldn't resist slicing off a piece while it was still warm, spreading a little butter on top and savoring the first bite.

The bread was everything I had hoped for and more. The apple butter added a rich, fruity sweetness to the bread, while the cinnamon and other spices added a warm, comforting depth of flavor. The texture was soft and tender, with just the right amount of chewiness from the crust. It was perfect.

I knew that this recipe would become a favorite in my collection, one that I would make again and again for my family and friends. The combination of apple butter and bread was truly a match made in heaven, and I was grateful for the opportunity to bring it to life in my own kitchen.

As I sat down to enjoy a slice of the Apple Butter Bread with a cup of tea, I reflected on the journey that had led me to this moment. It was a reminder of the joy and satisfaction that cooking and baking could bring, and of the importance of preserving and sharing recipes that had been passed down through generations.

I made a mental note to write down the recipe for Apple Butter Bread, so that I could pass it on to my own children and grandchildren one day. It was a recipe that deserved to be shared and enjoyed by many, and I felt honored to have discovered it and brought it to life in my own kitchen.

And so, as I savored the last crumbs of the delicious bread, I knew that this recipe would always hold a special place in my heart – a reminder of the simple pleasures of good food, lovingly prepared and shared with those we hold dear.