ππ§ππ° Apple Cheddar Walnut Bread ππ§ππ°
Apple Cheddar Walnut Bread is a delightful and savory-sweet bread that combines the flavors of crisp apples, sharp cheddar cheese, and crunchy walnuts. This scrumptious bread is perfect as a snack, breakfast, or as a side dish for soups and salads. Let’s dive into its history, components, preparation steps, and the time needed to create this mouthwatering treat!
π History:
The exact origin of Apple Cheddar Walnut Bread is not well-documented, but it likely evolved from traditional bread-making practices that combined seasonal ingredients. Apples, cheese, and nuts have been enjoyed together for centuries, making this bread a fusion of flavors that is both comforting and delicious.
π§ Components:
- Apples: You’ll need fresh, crisp apples, usually peeled and diced, to provide a burst of sweetness and moisture to the bread.
- Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar cheese adds a savory, tangy flavor and a delightful melt-in-your-mouth quality when baked.
- Walnuts: These provide a satisfying crunch and a rich nutty taste to balance the sweetness of the apples.
- Flour: All-purpose flour serves as the base for the bread.
- Leavening Agents: Baking powder and baking soda help the bread rise and become light and fluffy.
- Eggs: They act as a binding agent and add moisture.
- Sugar: A bit of sugar enhances the sweetness of the apples.
- Milk: To create a moist and tender crumb.
- Spices: Cinnamon and nutmeg are often added for warm, comforting flavors.
- Salt: For balancing the flavors and enhancing the taste.
π©βπ³ Preparation Steps:
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Prepare Your Ingredients: Begin by preheating your oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C). Grease and flour a loaf pan.
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon each of baking powder and baking soda, a pinch of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg.
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Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, beat 2 eggs, add 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, and mix until well combined. Then, stir in 1/2 cup of milk.
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Fold in Apples, Cheese, and Walnuts: Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients and gently fold in the diced apples, 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, and 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts. Mix until just combined.
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Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly. Bake for approximately 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Cool and Enjoy: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, slice and enjoy your Apple Cheddar Walnut Bread!
β° Time Needed:
- Preparation: 15-20 minutes
- Baking: 50-60 minutes
- Cooling: 30 minutes
So, from start to finish, you can have this delightful bread ready in about 1 hour and 45 minutes. It’s worth the time, as the aroma and taste will leave you with a happy π and satisfied π heart! ππ§ππ°
Certainly, here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Apple Cheddar Walnut Bread:
π Nutrition Facts (Approximate per Serving):
- Calories: 200-250 kcal
- Total Fat: 10-12g
- Saturated Fat: 3-4g
- Cholesterol: 25-35mg
- Sodium: 200-250mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 24-28g
- Dietary Fiber: 2-3g
- Sugars: 8-10g
- Protein: 5-7g
π Health Information:
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Apples: They are a good source of dietary fiber, vitamin C, and various antioxidants. Apples may support digestive health and provide a feeling of fullness, making them a healthy addition to your diet.
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Cheddar Cheese: While cheese is a source of calcium and protein, it’s also high in saturated fats and sodium. Enjoy it in moderation to avoid excessive fat intake.
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Walnuts: Walnuts are rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants. They may help reduce the risk of heart disease and improve brain health.
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Moderation: This bread can be a delicious treat, but be mindful of portion sizes due to its calorie and fat content. Enjoy it as part of a balanced diet.
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Customization: You can make this bread healthier by using whole wheat flour or reducing sugar. Experiment with ingredient substitutions to suit your dietary needs.
Remember, the actual nutrition content may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes, so it’s always a good idea to check the labels and adjust the recipe to meet your dietary goals. Enjoy your Apple Cheddar Walnut Bread in moderation for a tasty and satisfying treat! ππ§ππ°π