Apple Plus
A moist and flavorful apple loaf packed with pecans, coconut, and dates, perfect for cozy gatherings or as a sweet treat for fruit lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream together the margarine and butter.
- Add sugar and blend well.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time.
- Mix in vanilla.
- Sift together the flour, soda, and salt, then add to the mixture.
- Fold in the peeled, diced apples, chopped pecans, coconut, and chopped dates.
- Pour the batter into a greased 9 x 5 x 3-inch loaf pan.
- Bake at 300°F for 1 hour, then at 325°F for an additional 25 minutes.
- Test to see if the loaf is done by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using half the sugar or a sugar substitute. You can replace the margarine and butter with a plant-based alternative to make this a vegan-friendly recipe. For added flavor, try incorporating a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg. Make sure to use firm apples for the best texture, and be careful not to overmix the batter once you add the flour.
Serving Suggestions
This delicious Apple Plus loaf pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert. Serve it alongside a hot cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat. For a complete meal experience, consider serving it with a light salad or a slice of Blest French Toast for breakfast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Apple Plus in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap the loaf in plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, slice the loaf and warm in the oven at 250°F for about 10 minutes or until just heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Apple Plus contains roughly 3286 calories, with 13g protein, 113g carbohydrates, and 310g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (81% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (81% of the Daily Value), and iron (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 other fruits instead of apples?
Yes, you can substitute other fruits like pears or peaches for the apples, but be mindful of the moisture content, as this can affect the baking time. If using berries, reduce the amount slightly to avoid excess liquid in the batter.
What can I use instead of pecans?
If you don't have pecans on hand or prefer a different nut, walnuts or almonds can be excellent alternatives. You could also omit the nuts altogether for a nut-free version of this recipe.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of the all-purpose flour. Ensure that other ingredients like baking soda and vanilla extract are also gluten-free to maintain the integrity of the recipe.
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).