Apricot-Raisin Nut Bread
Apricot-Raisin Nut Bread offers a moist, flavorful loaf with sweet dried apricots, chewy raisins, and crunchy nuts. The bright citrus notes from orange and the rich aroma make it perfect for breakfast, tea, or as a snack. Its wholesome ingredients appeal to those seeking a tasty homemade treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cover dried apricots with boiling water and soak for about 30 minutes.
- Squeeze juice from the orange and add enough boiling water to make 1 cup.
- Save the orange peel for later use.
- Drain apricots and chop them into small pieces.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together margarine or butter and sugar.
- Add the egg and vanilla, and mix well.
- Stir in the chopped apricots, raisins, chopped nuts, and orange peel.
- In a separate bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Pour batter into a greased loaf pan.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool before removing from the pan and slicing.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of margarine. If you don't have dried apricots, try dried peaches or figs as substitutes. You can also add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth. To ensure even baking, rotate the loaf halfway through. This bread is great for breakfast or as a snack alongside a cup of tea.
Serving Suggestions
This Apricot-Raisin Nut Bread is delicious on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with cream cheese or butter for a delightful spread. Enjoy it with a side of fresh fruit or a cup of coffee for breakfast. For a festive touch, serve it alongside Sangria Wine Cake for dessert at your next gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, freezing it for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw at room temperature or pop slices in the toaster for a quick warm-up before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Apricot-Raisin Nut Bread contains roughly 340 calories, with 7g protein, 61g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is a good source of iron (19% of the Daily Value), protein (14% of the Daily Value), and calcium (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 931mg per serving (40% 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 fresh apricots instead of dried?
Fresh apricots contain too much moisture and won't yield the same texture or flavor as dried ones. If you prefer a fresher taste, consider using dried apricots soaked in orange juice or a splash of rum for an interesting twist.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this Apricot-Raisin Nut Bread gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose baking blend. Ensure that the blend contains xanthan gum or add it separately to maintain the bread's structure.
What can I do if the bread is too dry?
If the bread turns out dry, it may be due to overbaking or too much flour. To add moisture, serve it with a drizzle of honey or a spread of butter. You can also try adding more chopped fruit or nuts next time for added moisture.
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).