Warm Apple Pie Bread

Instructions

1. Prepare the Oven and Pan

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease the Pan: Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with cooking spray or butter, and set aside.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.

3. Cream the Butter and Sugar

1. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

4. Combine the Mixtures

1. Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
2. Fold in Apples: Gently fold in the diced apples and lemon juice until evenly distributed throughout the batter.

5. Prepare the Topping (Optional)

1. Mix Topping Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, cinnamon, and chopped nuts (if using). Drizzle with melted butter and stir until crumbly.

6. Bake the Bread

1. Pour and Top: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and sprinkle the topping mixture evenly over the top.
2. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

7. Cool and Serve

1. Cool the Bread: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
2. Slice and Enjoy: Serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy it plain or with a smear of butter or cream cheese.

Tips for Success

• Choosing Apples: Use a mix of tart and sweet apples for a balanced flavor. Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are excellent choices.
• Storage: Store any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. You can also freeze slices for up to 3 months—just thaw before serving.
• Customization: Feel free to add raisins, dried cranberries, or even caramel bits for an extra indulgent treat!

Conclusion

Warm Apple Pie Bread is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making it a perfect addition to your fall baking repertoire. Its comforting taste and inviting aroma will fill your home with warmth and joy, creating lasting memories with family and friends. Whether you serve it for breakfast, as a snack, or for dessert, this bread is sure to impress. So gather your ingredients, embrace the spirit of the season, and enjoy this deliciously cozy treat!