ππ Apple & Spice Drops: A Delectable Delight ππ
What is it?
Apple & Spice Drops are a scrumptious dessert or snack that combines the sweet, tart flavor of apples with a delightful blend of warm spices. These drops are typically in the form of small, bite-sized treats that burst with autumnal flavors, making them perfect for fall gatherings or any time you crave a cozy, comforting treat.
History:
The history of Apple & Spice Drops is rooted in traditional American and European baking, where apples and spices have been cherished ingredients for centuries. Apples have a long history of being used in pies, pastries, and preserves. The use of spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves in baked goods dates back to medieval times. Combining these two elements likely emerged as a way to celebrate the harvest season, especially in regions where apples were abundant.
Components:
To prepare Apple & Spice Drops, you’ll need the following components:
- Apples: Use fresh, crisp apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best flavor and texture.
- Spices: Common spices include cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and sometimes allspice or cardamom.
- Flour: All-purpose flour is typically used as the base.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar adds sweetness.
- Butter: Unsalted butter provides richness and flavor.
- Eggs: Eggs act as a binding agent.
- Baking Powder: This leavening agent helps the drops rise.
- Milk: Adds moisture to the batter.
Steps to Prepare Apple & Spice Drops:
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Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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Prepare Apples: Peel, core, and finely dice two medium-sized apples. Toss them in a bowl with a squeeze of lemon juice to prevent browning.
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, 1/4 teaspoon of ground cloves, 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt.
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Cream Butter and Sugar: In another bowl, cream 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter and 3/4 cup of granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
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Add Eggs: Beat in two eggs, one at a time, until well incorporated.
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Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with 1/4 cup of milk. Mix until just combined.
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Fold in Apples: Gently fold in the diced apples.
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Drop and Bake: Use a tablespoon or cookie scoop to drop spoonfuls of the batter onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
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Cool and Enjoy: Allow the Apple & Spice Drops to cool on a wire rack. Once cooled, you can enjoy these delectable treats.
Preparation Time:
The total time needed to prepare Apple & Spice Drops is approximately 45-60 minutes, including prep and baking time. This may vary depending on your experience in the kitchen and the size of the drops you make.
Now, you’re all set to savor the delightful combination of apples and spices in these tasty drops. πβ¨ Enjoy!
Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and health information for Apple & Spice Drops:
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
- Calories: Approximately 120-150 calories per drop, depending on size.
- Total Fat: Approximately 4-6 grams.
- Saturated Fat: Approximately 2-3 grams.
- Cholesterol: Approximately 20-30 milligrams.
- Sodium: Approximately 50-80 milligrams.
- Total Carbohydrates: Approximately 18-22 grams.
- Dietary Fiber: Approximately 1-2 grams.
- Sugars: Approximately 8-10 grams.
- Protein: Approximately 2-3 grams.
Health Information:
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Moderate Calories: Apple & Spice Drops are relatively moderate in calories, making them a reasonable treat when enjoyed in moderation.
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Healthy Ingredients: Apples are a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin C. The spices used, like cinnamon, can have potential health benefits, including helping to regulate blood sugar.
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Moderate Fat: The recipe typically contains moderate amounts of fat, primarily from butter. While it adds flavor, be mindful of portion size to control fat intake.
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Limited Sodium: The sodium content is relatively low, making it a suitable choice for individuals watching their sodium intake.
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Moderate Sugar: While these drops contain some sugar, it’s not excessive. However, it’s still advisable to consume them in moderation, especially if you’re mindful of sugar intake.
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Dietary Fiber: The apples and the small amount of fiber in the drops can contribute to your daily fiber intake, which is beneficial for digestion.
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Portion Control: Since these drops can be quite delicious, be cautious not to overindulge to maintain a balanced diet.
Remember that specific nutritional values may vary depending on the exact ingredients and portion sizes used in your recipe. It’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional or nutritionist for personalized dietary advice.