Holiday Apple Bread

Holiday Apple Bread

This bread is such a nice addition to any holiday meal.  It is one of my favorite recipes.

Not too sweet, it is moist from the shredded apples, flavored with cinnamon, and studded with raisins and nuts.

This apple bread makes a great breakfast or snack. I serve it at lunch, toasted, then topped with cream cheese and jam.  I have also been known to top a slice with ice cream and a little caramel sauce for a simple dessert.

The recipe makes one loaf, but I often double it. I divide the batter in smaller pans- ending up with 5 or 6 loaves.  I use them as gifts, or freeze for later use.

The cinnamon sugar topping is optional, but adds a little extra sweetness to the bread. The picture does not do this bread justice. It is so good.

Enjoy!!

Holiday Apple Bread

1/3 c. butter, softened

2/3 c. sugar

2 t. grated lemon or orange peel

1 t. cinnamon

2 eggs

3 T. milk

1 t. lemon juice

1 t. each baking powder and salt

1/2 t. baking soda

2 c. flour

1 1/2 c. peeled shredded apples, about 2 large apples

1 c. raisins*

1/2 c. chopped nuts

Topping:

3 T. sugar

1 t. cinnamon

Cream together butter, sugar, peel and cinnamon. Beat in eggs until light and fluffy. Stir in milk and lemon juice. Stir in dry ingredients then fold in apples, raisins and nuts. Pour batter into greased 9×5 – inch loaf pan. Combine topping and sprinkle over the top of the batter.  Bake in a preheated 350 -degree oven for 1 hour. Use a toothpick to test for doneness. Cool 15-20 minutes before removing from pan. Yield: 1 loaf.

*You can use other dried fruits. I sometimes use dried cranberries or cherries.