Apple and Walnut Bread

This delightful apple and walnut bread is a harmonious blend of sweet and nutty flavors, perfect for a comforting treat any time of year. The combination of tender apples and crunchy walnuts creates an exquisite texture, while the subtle sweetness from beet syrup and the citrus kick from lemon juice add layers of complexity. This recipe is straightforward and requires minimal effort, making it an excellent choice for both seasoned bakers and beginners. The bread's moist crumb and rich flavor make it an ideal companion for afternoon tea or breakfast on a leisurely weekend. Nostalgic aromas from the baking apples and toasty walnuts will fill your home, setting a cozy ambiance. Whether you're hosting friends or simply indulging yourself, this bread pairs deliciously with a variety of sides and toppings. In addition to being a crowd-pleaser, it's versatile enough to adapt to different dietary preferences. Enjoy making this apple and walnut bread and savor each bite of its delightful goodness. Follow our four-section guide to master this recipe and impress your loved ones.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 300 g tart apples
• 150 g soft butter
• 150 g beet syrup (apple syrup may be used)
• 1 pinch of salt
• 4 eggs
• 250 g flour
• 150 g chopped walnuts
• 6 tbsp milk

Spices and Sauces

• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tsp baking powder

Preparation Time

• Total time: 90 minutes (including prep and cook time)

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Prepare the Apples: Peel the apples and cut them into quarters. Remove the seeds to ensure a smooth texture in the bread.
2. Grate the Apples: Use a vegetable grater to grate the apple quarters. This will help distribute the apple flavor evenly throughout the bread.
3. Prevent Browning: Immediately sprinkle grated apples with lemon juice to prevent them from turning brown.
4. Grease the Pan: Use butter or oil to thoroughly grease a loaf pan, preventing the bread from sticking during baking.
5. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to preheat at a temperature of 180°C (350°F).
6. Creme the Butter and Syrup: In a mixing bowl, beat butter, beet syrup, and a pinch of salt until light and fluffy.
7. Add Eggs: Gradually incorporate the eggs into the butter and syrup mixture, beating well after each addition for a smooth consistency.
8. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and chopped walnuts. Stir in the grated apples.
9. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually fold the flour mixture into the creamed butter and eggs until well combined. Use either a whisk or hand mixer to blend until the mixture is smooth.
10. Incorporate Milk: Slowly add milk in portions, mixing each time until the batter reaches the desired consistency without lumps.
11. Transfer to Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading evenly to ensure a uniform bake.
12. Start Baking: Place the pan on the bottom rack of the preheated oven and bake for 60-70 minutes at 160°C.
13. Check Doneness: Use a skewer or toothpick to check if the bread is cooked through; it should come out clean.
14. Cool in the Oven: After baking, allow the bread to rest in the oven with the door slightly open for 10 minutes to prevent sudden temperature changes.
15. Remove from Pan: Carefully remove the bread from the pan and let it cool completely on a wire rack.
16. Slicing: Once cooled, slice the bread into pieces and prepare for serving.
17. Serving: Enjoy it warm or at room temperature, with butter, jam, or your preferred topping.
18. Storing: Wrap any remaining bread in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
19. Freezing: If desired, freeze the bread in slices for up to three months for longer storage.
20. Reheating: Optionally, warm individual slices in a toaster oven before serving to revive their fresh-baked taste.

Tips

• Substitutions: Feel free to replace walnuts with pecans or almonds for a different nutty twist.
• Moisture Balance: If the mixture seems too thick, add a little more milk to reach your preferred consistency.
• Grating Apples: Choose firmer apples for easier grating and better texture.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
• Protein: 6 g
• Fats: 18 g
• Carbohydrates: 40 g

Variations

• Gluten-Free: Substitute regular flour with gluten-free flour blend.
• Vegan Option: Replace butter with a plant-based alternative and use flaxseed meal or applesauce as an egg substitute.

Serving Suggestions

• Accompaniments: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt for added creaminess.
• Pairings: Enjoy with a cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk for a delightful experience.

Best Places

1. Tartine Bakery - Known for its artisanal breads and pastries with a European flair.
   Location: 600 Guerrero St, San Francisco, USA.

2. Boulangerie Poilâne - Famous for its rustic breads crafted with care and tradition.
   Location: 8 Rue du Cherche-Midi, Paris, France.

3. Pasticceria Marchesi - Offers exquisite baked goods with Italian finesse.
   Location: Via Santa Maria alla Porta 11/a, Milan, Italy.

4. Patisserie Valerie - A beloved spot for traditional and contemporary baked delights.
   Location: 121 High St, Birmingham, UK.

5. Forn Baluard - Celebrated for its wood-fired loaves and warm atmosphere.
   Location: C/ de Baluard, 38, Barcelona, Spain.

6. Levain Bakery - Offers giant cookies and hearty breads that impress every visitor.
   Location: 167 West 74th St, New York City, USA.

7. Du Pain et des Idées - Renowned for its creative and delicious baked offerings.
   Location: 34 Rue Yves Toudic, Paris, France.

8. Bäckerei Ströck - Combines modernity with tradition in its famous baked goods.
   Location: Stumpergasse 46, Vienna, Austria.

9. Antico Forno - Known for authentic Italian focaccia and delightful pastries.
   Location: 93/94 Quai des Retz, Nantes, France.

10. Ladurée - Offers luxurious and artsy baked delicacies in a chic atmosphere.
    Location: 75, Avenue des Champs-Élysées, Paris, France.