Apricot Preserve Bread
A rich, nutty bread infused with apricot preserves and flavors of spices, perfect for breakfast or teatime, appealing to those who enjoy fruity, spiced baked goods.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together the sugar, oleo, buttermilk, and soda in a large bowl.
- Add the apricot nectar, eggs, and apricot preserves; blend well.
- Gradually stir in the flour, cocoa, allspice, cloves, nutmeg, and cinnamon until just combined.
- Fold in the pecans and preserves last.
- Pour the batter into a greased tube pan or two loaf pans.
- Bake at 350°F for 75 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool before removing from the pan.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of white sugar or adding a splash of vanilla extract. If you don't have apricot nectar, orange juice can be a suitable substitute. Ensure not to overmix the batter to keep the bread light and fluffy. This recipe can also be adapted to include dried fruits or nuts of your choice for added texture.
Serving Suggestions
This Apricot Preserve Bread is delightful on its own but also pairs beautifully with a spread of cream cheese or butter. For a complete breakfast, serve with fresh fruit or a side of yogurt. Additionally, it makes a lovely dessert when paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or alongside Peaches & Cream Cheesecake.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw at room temperature and warm in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes for the best texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Apricot Preserve Bread contains roughly 559 calories, with 8g protein, 91g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (30% of the Daily Value), calcium (25% of the Daily Value), and iron (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin C. It also contributes 8g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 types of preserves in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute apricot preserves with other fruit preserves like peach, raspberry, or even mixed berry. Just keep in mind that the flavor will change slightly, but it will still yield a delicious bread.
Is it necessary to use buttermilk?
Buttermilk adds moisture and a slight tang to the bread, which enhances its flavor. If you don't have buttermilk, you can create a substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice and letting it sit for 5 minutes.
How do I know when the bread is done baking?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the bread; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the bread is done. If it comes out with wet batter, it needs more time. Oven temperatures can vary, so keep an eye on it as it bakes.
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).