Surprise Apple Bread
A moist, flavorful apple bread with surprises of cherries and nuts, perfect for breakfast or snack, showcasing warm cinnamon and fresh apples in every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sift together the flour, salt, baking soda, and cinnamon.
- Add the beaten eggs, oil, sugar, vanilla, and applesauce to the dry ingredients and stir until combined.
- Fold in the chopped apples, nuts, and soaked drained raisins.
- Pour the batter into two greased loaf pans.
- Press a maraschino cherry into the center of each loaf.
- Bake at 350°F for 45 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider sifting the flour multiple times or using cake flour instead of all-purpose flour. You can substitute half of the sugar with unsweetened applesauce to cut calories. If you prefer a nut-free version, simply omit the nuts or replace them with seeds. For added flavor, try incorporating spices like nutmeg or ginger as well.
Serving Suggestions
This delightful bread is perfect for breakfast or as a snack. Serve it warm with a pat of butter or cream cheese for a richer taste. Pair it with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat. It also pairs beautifully with Orange Crush Salad for a refreshing contrast. For a special touch, add a drizzle of honey on top.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Surprise Apple Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate for up to a week. For longer storage, wrap the loaves tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months. To reheat, let thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Surprise Apple Bread contains roughly 840 calories, with 12g protein, 144g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (51% of the Daily Value), potassium (31% of the Daily Value), and protein (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1128mg per serving (49% 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 sweet and tart apples like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp works wonderfully. The sweetness of the apples will complement the spices and sugar, making for a deliciously layered flavor profile.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure the blend contains xanthan gum for better texture. You may need to adjust the liquid slightly as gluten-free flours can absorb moisture differently.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make a vegan version, substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) and use a vegetable oil instead of Crisco. Replace the sugar with coconut sugar or another vegan sweetener to maintain the recipe's integrity.
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).