Apricot Brandy Bread

Apricot Brandy Bread Recipe - Delicious and Nutritious Dish

Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour and 15 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

The Apricot Brandy Bread is a delightful and aromatic baked good that combines the sweetness of apricots with the rich, warming notes of brandy. This recipe is perfect for those who appreciate a sophisticated twist on classic bread recipes. Whether served as a dessert, a breakfast treat, or a snack, this bread promises to be a memorable addition to any table.

History

The tradition of incorporating dried fruits and alcohol into bread dates back centuries, with each culture adding its unique twist. The Apricot Brandy Bread is a modern take on these age-old practices, blending the sweet tanginess of apricots with the depth of brandy. This recipe has evolved over time, with each generation adding its touch, making it a beloved favorite in many households.

Ingredients

1 cup dried apricots, chopped
1 tsp baking soda
0.25 cup + 1 tbsp apricot brandy
0.25 tsp salt
0.5 cup shortening
1 tsp cinnamon
1 cup sugar
0.5 tsp nutmeg
0.25 tsp allspice
2 cups flour
0.25 tsp cloves
1 cup pecans, chopped
1 cup applesauce
1 egg

How to prepare

Combine apricots and brandy; cover and refrigerate overnight.
Cream shortening; gradually add sugar and beat well.
Add egg and mix well.
Combine 1 cup flour with baking soda, spices, and salt; set aside.
Add pecans to apricot mixture; combine with reserved flour mixture.
Toss well to coat all pieces with flour; set aside.
Add remaining 1 cup flour to shortening/sugar mixture alternating with applesauce (beginning and ending with flour mixture).
Stir in reserved apricot mixture.
Pour into a greased 9 x 5 x 3 loaf pan; bake at 350°F (177°C) for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool loaf in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove from pan and cool completely on a wire rack.

Variations

For a twist, try substituting the apricots with dried cherries or cranberries. You can also use walnut or almond instead of pecans for a different nutty flavor. For a non-alcoholic version, orange juice can replace the apricot brandy.

Notes

May be frozen up to 3 months.
May be wrapped in cheesecake and soaked with additional brandy and stored in a tin, if desired.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the best results, soak the apricots in brandy overnight to fully infuse the flavors. Use high-quality apricot brandy for a more pronounced taste. When mixing the batter, avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender. Finally, allow the bread to cool completely before slicing to prevent it from crumbling.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Apricot Brandy Bread slightly warmed with a dollop of cream cheese or butter for a decadent treat. It also pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy breakfast or mid-afternoon snack.

Cooking Techniques

The key technique in this recipe is the creaming of shortening and sugar, which introduces air into the batter, resulting in a lighter bread. Additionally, coating the apricots and nuts in flour before adding them to the batter helps distribute them evenly throughout the bread.

Ingredient Substitutions

If apricot brandy is not available, you can use peach brandy or apple brandy as alternatives. In place of shortening, unsalted butter can be used for a richer flavor. For a healthier version, whole wheat flour can replace all-purpose flour, though this may alter the texture slightly.

Make Ahead Tips

This bread can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. To serve, simply thaw (if frozen) and reheat gently.

Presentation Ideas

Slice the bread and arrange it on a platter with fresh apricot slices and a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant presentation. A sprig of mint can add a pop of color and freshness.

Pairing Recommendations

Apricot Brandy Bread pairs wonderfully with sweet dessert wines or a robust coffee. For a savory contrast, serve it alongside a sharp cheese, such as aged cheddar or gouda.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap the bread in plastic wrap and freeze. To reheat, wrap the bread in foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for about 10 minutes.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of Apricot Brandy Bread contains approximately 300 calories. The calories are derived from a combination of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins.

Carbohydrates

A single serving of Apricot Brandy Bread contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates. The primary sources include sugar, flour, and dried apricots, providing a good balance of simple and complex carbohydrates.

Fats

This bread contains about 10 grams of fat per serving, mainly from shortening and pecans. These fats contribute to the bread's moist texture and rich flavor.

Proteins

Each serving of Apricot Brandy Bread offers around 4 grams of protein, coming from the egg, pecans, and a small amount from the flour.

Vitamins and minerals

The apricots in the bread are a good source of Vitamin A and potassium. Additionally, pecans provide magnesium, phosphorus, and zinc, contributing to the overall nutritional value of the bread.

Alergens

This recipe contains common allergens such as nuts (pecans) and eggs. It is also not suitable for those with gluten intolerance due to the presence of flour.

Summary

Overall, Apricot Brandy Bread is a moderately calorie-dense treat that offers a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, along with essential vitamins and minerals. However, those with specific dietary restrictions should consume it cautiously.

Summary

Apricot Brandy Bread is a versatile and flavorful baked good that combines the sweetness of apricots with the warmth of brandy. With its rich history and nutritional benefits, it's a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you're looking for a special breakfast option, a tasty snack, or a sophisticated dessert, this bread is sure to impress.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is still fresh in my mind. It was a hot summer day, and I was rummaging through my old recipe box, searching for something new and exciting to try. As I flipped through the yellowed index cards and magazine clippings, my eyes landed on a small, handwritten note tucked away in the back.

The note was written in delicate cursive, almost fading with age. It simply read: "Apricot Brandy Bread." Intrigued, I unfolded the note and read through the ingredients and instructions. It seemed like a simple enough recipe, but something about it sparked a sense of nostalgia within me.

I remembered my own grandmother, a master in the kitchen who could whip up the most delicious dishes without ever consulting a cookbook. She had a way of infusing every meal with love and care, and I could still recall the comforting aroma of her kitchen whenever she baked bread.

With a newfound sense of determination, I set out to make the Apricot Brandy Bread. I gathered all the necessary ingredients - flour, sugar, eggs, dried apricots, brandy, and of course, a pinch of love. As I mixed the batter and watched it come together, I couldn't help but feel a sense of connection to my grandmother and the generations of women who came before me.

The bread baked to a golden perfection in the oven, filling my kitchen with a sweet, fruity aroma that brought back memories of family gatherings and holiday feasts. When I took the loaf out of the oven and sliced into it, I knew I had stumbled upon a true gem of a recipe.

I shared the Apricot Brandy Bread with my family and friends, and it quickly became a favorite among them. They marveled at the unique combination of flavors and the tender texture of the bread, and soon enough, they were asking me for the recipe.

I proudly shared the handwritten note with them, and as they read through it, I could see the same sense of nostalgia and connection that I had felt when I first discovered the recipe. It was as if this simple piece of paper held the key to a treasure trove of memories and culinary delights.

Over the years, I continued to make Apricot Brandy Bread for special occasions and family gatherings. Each time I baked a loaf, I felt a sense of pride and joy, knowing that I was carrying on a tradition that had been passed down through the generations.

As I grew older, I realized that the true magic of this recipe didn't just lie in its delicious taste, but in the memories and stories that it carried with it. It was a reminder of my grandmother's love and skill in the kitchen, and a testament to the power of food to bring people together and create lasting connections.

Now, as I sit here reminiscing about that fateful day when I first found the recipe for Apricot Brandy Bread, I can't help but feel grateful for the gift of cooking and the joy it has brought into my life. And I know that as long as I have this recipe and the memories that accompany it, I will always have a piece of my grandmother with me, guiding me through the kitchen and filling my home with the warmth and love of generations past.