Thanksgiving Bread
A moist, flavorful bread infused with dried apricots, dates, and walnuts, perfect for festive occasions and sweet-savory cravings, appealing to those who enjoy hearty baked goods.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cover apricots with hot boiling water for 15 minutes and drain.
- Mix dried apricots, dates, and chopped walnuts.
- Sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add brown sugar to the dry ingredients and blend well.
- Add the beaten egg, milk, and maple syrup to the mixture and stir until combined.
- Pour the batter into 2 well-greased loaf pans.
- Let the batter stand for 15 to 20 minutes.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 50 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider soaking the dried fruits in warm water or orange juice overnight. For a healthier twist, you can substitute half of the brown sugar with applesauce or use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. If you prefer a nut-free option, simply omit the walnuts or replace them with sunflower seeds for a similar crunch.
Serving Suggestions
This Thanksgiving Bread is delightful as a breakfast treat or an afternoon snack. Serve it warm with a smear of butter or cream cheese, pairing beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. It also complements a festive spread alongside American recipes such as Wine-Soaked Cake or Arctic-Cranberry Salad for a seasonal gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the bread to cool completely before storing. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in an airtight container. It can be stored at room temperature for up to three days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, slice and warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Thanksgiving Bread contains roughly 424 calories, with 8g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1868mg per serving (81% 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 fruit instead of dried apricots and dates?
While fresh fruit can be used, they contain more moisture, which may affect the bread's texture. If using fresh fruit, reduce the milk slightly and ensure they are chopped finely to maintain the right consistency.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make this Thanksgiving Bread vegan, substitute the egg with a flaxseed meal or a commercial egg replacer. Use a plant-based milk, such as almond or soy milk, and replace the maple syrup with agave nectar for a similar sweetness.
Can I freeze this bread?
Yes, you can freeze the Thanksgiving Bread! After cooling, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to three months. To enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and warm it in the oven for a fresh-from-the-oven taste.
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).