Apple-Orange Nut Bread
A moist, flavorful bread combining tender apples and zesty oranges, accented with nuts and raisins — perfect for breakfast, snacks, or brunch gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spray two 1-pound coffee cans with non-stick spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, soda, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, cream shortening and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in grated orange rind and orange juice.
- Fold in grated apples, raisins, and nuts.
- Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared coffee cans, filling each about 2/3 full.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool slightly before removing from cans and serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, sift the flour before measuring and consider using half applesauce for half the shortening. If you prefer a more intense orange flavor, add an extra teaspoon of grated orange rind. You can also substitute walnuts or pecans for the nuts based on your preference. This bread can be made with whole wheat flour for a healthier twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices of this delicious bread with a pat of butter or a spread of cream cheese for breakfast or as a snack. It pairs beautifully with Soft Peach Ice Cream for a delightful dessert. Consider serving it alongside a warm cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover apple-orange nut bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm slices in the microwave or oven until just heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Apple-Orange Nut Bread contains roughly 752 calories, with 11g protein, 173g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (82% of the Daily Value), iron (32% of the Daily Value), and calcium (31% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2425mg per serving (105% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different fruits in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the apples with other fruits like pears or grated zucchini. Just ensure the moisture content is similar to maintain the bread's texture. Adding cranberries or chopped dates can also provide a unique flavor twist.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check that all other ingredients, especially baking powder and soda, are gluten-free. You may need to adjust the liquid slightly for the best texture.
How do I know when the bread is done baking?
The bread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached. If the top is browning too quickly, you can cover it loosely with aluminum foil during the last 15 minutes of baking.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).