Spicy Apricot Bread *
A moist, flavorful bread infused with dried apricots and warming spices, perfect for breakfast or teatime, appealing to those who love fruity and spicy baked treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Chop dried apricots into small pieces.
- Mix apricots with water, sugar, fat, cinnamon, cloves, salt, and nutmeg; bring to a boil and boil for five minutes.
- Gradually stir in sifted flour and soda until just blended.
- Pour the batter into a well-greased bread pan.
- Bake at 330°F (165°C) for one hour or more.
- Cool the bread for five minutes in the pan.
- Remove from pan and cool further on a cake rack.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of white sugar. You can also replace the fat with applesauce for a healthier twist. If you want to enhance the spice profile, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or ginger. Ensure the apricots are chopped finely for even distribution throughout the bread. This recipe is adaptable; you can browse more American recipes for variations.
Serving Suggestions
This Spicy Apricot Bread is delicious on its own but can be served with a dollop of cream cheese or butter for added richness. It pairs beautifully with a warm cup of tea or coffee, making it a perfect breakfast or snack option. Consider serving it alongside a light salad or yogurt for a balanced meal. For dessert, it complements well with a slice of Banana Cake (Chiffon).
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in an airtight container. It can be kept at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerated for about a week. To reheat, slice the bread and warm it in a toaster or oven at a low temperature until heated through, enhancing its fresh-baked aroma.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spicy Apricot Bread * contains roughly 260 calories, with 4g protein, 50g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (16% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (14% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 971mg per serving (42% 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 substitute fresh apricots for dried apricots in this recipe?
Using fresh apricots is not recommended as they have a high moisture content, which can affect the bread's texture. Dried apricots provide the right sweetness and consistency. If you prefer using fresh, consider drying them first or reducing the water in the recipe.
What can I do if my batter seems too thick?
If the batter is too thick, you can add a little extra water, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a pourable consistency. However, be cautious not to add too much, as it can alter the bread's texture. Ensuring proper measurements of flour and liquid is key.
How can I tell when the bread is done baking?
To check if the bread is done, insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs clinging to it, the bread is ready. Additionally, the top should be golden brown and spring back when lightly pressed. Allowing it to cool in the pan will also help set its structure.
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).