Apple is an incredibly versatile ingredient to add to bread, and it adds a lovely sweet flavour that helps to enhance the texture. Apples can be used in a variety of breads, from a classic apple pie-like loaf to a traditional focaccia that has a hint of apples to accentuate the savoury flavour. For a completely unique take, you can even make an apple-and-nut bread that combines the sweetness of apples with the crunch of nuts for an unforgettable texture and taste. Whichever type of bread you choose to make, working with apples helps to give any dough a delicious boost of flavour.
Step-by-step: Cinnamon apple bread
Apples
Apple – Use a vegetable peeler to peel the apples, and a corer to core the apples. Then, dice them into small 1/2-inch cubes.Pro tip – It’s best to cut the apples small so you can cut the bread into neat slices. Or you will have rough edges.
Apple pie mixture – Place the apple in a bowl, add the salt, cinnamon powder, ground ginger, and nutmeg – Combine well. Cover with plastic wrap to prevent oxidization and set aside. Oven / Pan – Preheat the oven to 325°F/165°F/Gas Mark 3. Grease one 9 x 4-inch loaf pan Dry ingredients – In a bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon powder, ground ginger, nutmeg, and salt. Wet ingredients – In a bowl of a stand mixer with the paddle attachment or a hand mixer whip the eggs for a minute. Then, gradually add both the brown and white sugar. Whip until sugar is almost dissolved. Next, gradually add the oil followed by the vanilla extract.
Wet to dry – Next, add the flour in three batches and combine well. Finally, add the chopped apples and nuts (pecans or walnuts). Bake – Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes until a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool for at least 20 minutes before you slice it into this cake.
Tips for moist apple bread
Choose the Right Apples: Some apples have a higher moisture content than others. Using varieties like McIntosh, Braeburn, or Cortland can contribute to a moister bread. Do Not Overmix: Overmixing can lead to a dense, dry bread. Mix just until the ingredients are combined. Use Brown Sugar: Brown sugar contains molasses, which can add moisture to the bread. Consider using it in place of or in combination with white sugar. Add Apple Sauce: You can replace some or all of the oil/butter with apple sauce. This will not only provide moisture but also enhance the apple flavor. Properly Measure Flour: Too much flour can dry out the bread. Use the “spoon and level” method: spoon the flour into your measuring cup and then level it off with a knife. Cover with Foil: If you notice the top of the bread browning too quickly while baking, cover it loosely with aluminum foil. This prevents the top from over-baking while the inside continues to cook. Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick or a thin knife to check for doneness. When inserted into the center of the bread, it should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter. Remember, it’s better to slightly underbake than overbake for moister results. Avoid Overbaking: Overbaked bread can become dry. Check your bread a few minutes before the minimum baking time, especially if your oven runs hot. Cool in the Pan: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps the bread retain its moisture. Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure that your baking powder and baking soda are fresh. Stale leavening agents can affect the rise and texture of your bread. Store Properly: Once cooled, store the apple bread in an airtight container or tightly wrapped to retain its moisture. If storing for more than a couple of days, consider refrigerating it to maintain freshness. Add Ins: Ingredients like chopped nuts or raisins can help retain moisture within the bread. Liquid Balance: Ensure that your recipe has a good balance of liquid ingredients. If you’re experimenting or trying a new recipe, be mindful of the wet to dry ingredient ratio.
Troubleshooting
My apple bread is dry. What went wrong? Overbaking or using too little liquid can result in dry apple bread. Make sure to measure ingredients accurately and keep an eye on the bread during the last few minutes of baking. Why is my apple bread too moist or soggy? Overly moist apple bread can be due to several reasons: too many apples, not baking it long enough, or using apples that release a lot of moisture. Follow the recipe closely and consider using a toothpick to test for doneness.
Frequently asked questions
Creative ways to serve or use leftover apple bread.
Apple bread French toast: Slice the bread thickly and dip in a mixture of beaten eggs, milk, vanilla, and a pinch of cinnamon. Fry until golden brown and serve with maple syrup and a dusting of powdered sugar. Apple bread pudding: Cube the bread with a custard mixture of eggs, milk, sugar, and vanilla. Bake until set and serve with a whipped or vanilla ice cream dollop. Layered apple bread parfait: Layer crumbled bread, whipped cream, and diced caramelized apples in clear glass. Drizzle with caramel sauce and sprinkle with toasted walnuts. Cinnamon apple bread trifle: Layer chunks of the bread with vanilla pudding, sautéed apples, and whipped cream in a large glass bowl or individual serving glasses. Mini bread tarts: Using a round cookie cutter, cut circles from the bread and press them into mini muffin tins. Fill with apple pie filling and bake until heated through. Cinnamon apple bread ice cream sandwich: Slice the bread thinly, then use it to sandwich a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream. Roll the sides in crushed graham crackers or chopped nuts.
Thank you for sharing - Save for later
