Dorothy'S New England Apple-Raisin Bread
Dorothy's New England Apple-Raisin Bread is a hearty, spiced loaf combining whole wheat flour, dried fruits, nuts, and warm spices. Its moist texture and rich flavors make it perfect for breakfast, snack, or tea time, appealing to those who enjoy wholesome, flavorful baked goods with a hint of autumnal warmth.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Blend the flour, sugar, cocoa, soda, salt, and spices in a large bowl.
- Stir together the buttermilk, applesauce, and melted butter.
- Combine the dry ingredients with the wet ingredients, stirring until just moistened.
- Fold in the raisins or dried prunes and walnuts.
- Turn the batter into a greased and floured 6 1/2 cup ring mold.
- Bake until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider substituting half of the whole wheat flour with all-purpose flour. If you don't have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by mixing 1/2 cup milk with 1/2 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Adding a pinch of nutmeg enhances the spices. Ensure not to overmix the batter when combining wet and dry ingredients to keep the bread tender.
Serving Suggestions
This apple-raisin bread is delightful served warm with a pat of butter or cream cheese. It pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee for breakfast or as a snack. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside a salad or as a side to savory dishes like Swiss Cheese Bread, creating a lovely balance of flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Once cooled, store any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in the freezer, where it can last for up to three months. To reheat, slice the bread and warm it in a toaster or oven until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dorothy'S New England Apple-Raisin Bread contains roughly 208 calories, with 2g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 937mg per serving (41% 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 apples instead of applesauce?
Yes, you can use fresh apples by peeling, coring, and finely chopping them. About 1 cup of chopped apples can replace the applesauce. Just ensure to adjust the moisture in the batter by slightly reducing the buttermilk to maintain the right consistency.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, substitute the buttermilk with a plant-based alternative, such as almond milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar, and replace the melted butter with coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute. Additionally, ensure the sugar used is vegan-friendly.
What can I add for extra flavor?
For added flavor, consider mixing in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans, or adding a handful of dried cranberries or cherries along with the raisins. A splash of vanilla extract or a tablespoon of orange zest can also elevate the overall taste of the bread.
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).