Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite breakfast and dessert all rolled into one: easy Dutch apple bread! This recipe makes a delightful loaf that’s bursting with juicy apples and a warm cinnamon aroma that just fills your kitchen with love. I remember the first time I baked this bread; it was a chilly fall morning, and I had a few apples lying around. I threw them into the mix, and wow! The result was heavenly. It’s wonderfully moist, sweet, and just the right amount of spice. Whether you enjoy it fresh out of the oven with a pat of butter or as a cozy afternoon snack, this bread never disappoints. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll find yourself baking it again and again!
Ingredients for Easy Dutch Apple Bread
- 2 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1/2 cup milk, whole or 2%
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups diced apples, peeled and cored (I love using Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for that perfect balance of tart and sweet!)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional, but they add a lovely crunch!)
How to Prepare Easy Dutch Apple Bread
Step-by-Step Instructions
Alright, let’s get baking! First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). It’s key to have that oven nice and toasty before we pop our bread in—trust me, it makes a difference!
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until it’s light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes. Then, add the eggs one by one, mixing well after each addition, so everything gets nicely incorporated. Next, pour in the milk and stir until combined.
Now, grab another bowl and whisk together the sifted flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. This step helps distribute the baking powder evenly, ensuring a perfect rise. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring just until the flour disappears—don’t overmix, or your bread could end up dense!
Time for the star of the show! Gently fold in those diced apples and, if you’re using them, the chopped walnuts. Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan, making sure it’s evenly spread out. Bake in your preheated oven for about 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once it’s done, let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. And there you have it—delicious, warm easy Dutch apple bread ready to be sliced and savored!
Tips for Success
To ensure your easy Dutch apple bread turns out perfectly every time, here are some pro tips I swear by! First, make sure your butter is softened properly; it should be pliable but not melted. This helps achieve that light and fluffy texture when creaming with the sugar. Also, don’t skip the sifting step for your flour—it aerates the flour, making your bread lighter and fluffier!
If you want to boost the flavor, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of nutmeg along with the cinnamon. And remember, the type of apples you use can make a world of difference—opt for a mix of sweet and tart varieties for a nice balance. Lastly, keep an eye on the baking time; every oven is different, and you want that toothpick to come out clean but not dry. Happy baking!
Variations of Easy Dutch Apple Bread
One of the best things about this easy Dutch apple bread is how adaptable it is! If you want to switch things up, try adding different spices like nutmeg or allspice for an extra layer of warmth. You can also toss in some raisins or dried cranberries for a chewy texture that pairs beautifully with the apples. If you’re feeling adventurous, swap out half of the apples for pears or even diced peaches—trust me, they’re a delightful surprise!
For a healthier twist, you can reduce the sugar by half and replace it with honey or maple syrup. If you love a bit of zing, incorporating some fresh ginger or a splash of orange juice can elevate the flavors wonderfully. Get creative and make this recipe your own; the possibilities are endless!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Once you’ve made your easy Dutch apple bread, you’ll want to keep it fresh for as long as possible! To store leftovers, simply wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. This will help maintain its moisture and flavor. It’s best enjoyed within 3-4 days, but if you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it!
To freeze your bread, slice it first (if you like) and wrap each slice in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. This way, you can grab just what you need later! When you’re ready to enjoy, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. For a quick reheat, pop a slice in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or toast it lightly for that warm, fresh-out-of-the-oven experience. Yum!
Nutritional Information for Easy Dutch Apple Bread
Curious about what’s in this delicious loaf? Here’s a quick breakdown of the estimated nutritional values per slice of easy Dutch apple bread:
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 12g
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 150mg
These values are estimates, but they give you a good idea of the yummy goodness you’re enjoying in every slice!
FAQ About Easy Dutch Apple Bread
Can I use different types of apples?
Absolutely! I love using Granny Smith for their tartness, but you can mix things up with Honeycrisp, Fuji, or even a combination. Just make sure they’re firm and flavorful for the best result!
How can I make this bread gluten-free?
You can easily swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend. Just make sure to check the package instructions, as some blends have different hydration needs.
What if I don’t have walnuts?
No problem at all! You can leave them out or substitute with pecans, almonds, or even sunflower seeds for a nice crunch. The bread will still be delicious!
How do I know when the bread is done?
The best way to check is to insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, it’s done! If it’s wet, give it a few more minutes in the oven.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Definitely! You can bake it a day or two in advance. Just let it cool completely, wrap it well, and store it at room temperature or in the fridge. Reheat slices as needed, and you’ll have a cozy treat ready to go!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s super easy and quick to whip up—perfect for busy mornings or last-minute desserts!
- The delightful combination of warm cinnamon and fresh apples makes every bite a flavor explosion.
- It’s wonderfully versatile; great for breakfast, snacks, or even as a sweet treat after dinner.
- This bread is incredibly moist and tender, thanks to the generous apples folded right in!
- Leftovers? No problem! It keeps well and can even be frozen for future enjoyment.
Easy Dutch Apple Bread: 5 Reasons You’ll Love This Recipe
- Total Time: 85 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple recipe for Dutch apple bread that is perfect for breakfast or dessert.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups diced apples
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the milk.
- In another bowl, combine flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture.
- Fold in the diced apples and walnuts.
- Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan.
- Bake for 60-70 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let cool before slicing.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- This bread can be frozen for up to three months.
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 70 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Dutch
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: easy dutch apple bread
