Fresh Apple Loaf
A moist and flavorful apple loaf bursting with fresh apple chunks and warm spices, perfect for cozy mornings or afternoon tea. Its tender crumb and aromatic cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves make it a delightful treat for family gatherings or anytime you crave a comforting dessert.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine peeled, chopped apples, pecans, and sugar in a bowl.
- Let the mixture stand for one hour, stirring often; do not drain.
- In a separate bowl, combine all-purpose flour, sugar, salt, nutmeg, cloves, and cinnamon.
- Stir in melted butter, vanilla, and beaten eggs into the flour mixture.
- Spoon the batter into two greased 1-pound coffee cans.
- Tie a 2-inch band of foil around the top of each can.
- Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 1 hour and 15 minutes or until a wooden pick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool the loaves in cans for 10 minutes.
- Remove from cans and allow to cool completely.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in chopped walnuts or pecans alongside the apples. If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the sugar by half a cup or use a sugar substitute. Ensure the butter is melted but not too hot when combined with the eggs to prevent curdling. This recipe can also be adapted for a gluten-free version using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Serving Suggestions
Slice the apple loaf and serve it warm with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey for added richness. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. For a delightful dessert, serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. This loaf also makes a wonderful addition to brunch alongside other treats like Veggie Pizza Appetizer.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover apple loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fresh Apple Loaf contains roughly 1573 calories, with 16g protein, 169g carbohydrates, and 69g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (172% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (128% of the Daily Value), and iron (40% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2494mg per serving (108% 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 types of apples for this recipe?
Absolutely! A mix of tart and sweet apples, like Granny Smith and Fuji, can enhance the flavor. Just make sure to use firm apples that hold their shape during baking for the best texture in your loaf.
How can I adjust the recipe for a smaller batch?
To make a smaller batch, you can halve the ingredients and bake in one greased loaf pan instead of two coffee cans. Adjust the baking time to about 50-60 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the apple mixture and batter a day in advance. Store the apple mixture in the refrigerator and combine it with the dry ingredients just before baking for the freshest taste. Baked loaves can also be made ahead and frozen.
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).