Harvest Loaves
A fragrant, apple-filled loaf with warm spices and nutty crunch, perfect for cozy mornings or holiday gatherings, appealing to those who love fruity, spiced baked goods.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Stir the diced, peeled apples and sugar together and let stand for 1 hour.
- In a separate bowl, mix the self-rising flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Beat the eggs, then add oil and vanilla.
- Add the egg mixture to the apples and sugar mixture and stir well.
- Combine the flour mixture with the wet ingredients and stir until just mixed.
- Stir in the chopped nuts.
- Divide the batter evenly between two sprayed loaf pans.
- Bake at 350°F for 1 hour or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider using a mix of tart and sweet apples like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp. If you don't have self-rising flour, you can substitute all-purpose flour and add 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. For a twist, try adding dried cranberries or raisins to the batter for added texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These loaves are perfect for breakfast or as a snack throughout the day. Serve them warm with a pat of butter or cream cheese for added richness. They also pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. For a festive touch, consider serving them alongside a slice of 'Light' Blueberry Cake at your next gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Harvest Loaves in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week. You can also freeze slices for up to three months. To reheat, simply microwave individual slices for about 15-20 seconds or warm them in an oven set to 350°F.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Harvest Loaves contains roughly 1611 calories, with 4g protein, 52g carbohydrates, and 134g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of 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 frozen apples for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen apples can be used, but make sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before adding them to the mixture. This will help prevent the batter from becoming too watery and ensure your loaves bake properly.
What can I substitute for oil in this recipe?
You can substitute the oil with unsweetened applesauce for a healthier option, which will also enhance the apple flavor. Alternatively, melted coconut oil or even melted butter can be used for a richer taste.
How can I tell when the loaves are done baking?
You can check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the loaves. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, they're ready. Keep an eye on them towards the end of baking time to avoid overcooking.
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).