Apricot Almond Bread (Breadmaker 1 1/2 lb. Loaf)
Description:
This delightful Apricot Almond Bread is perfect for anyone who loves a fragrant, nutty, and fruity bread that comes together effortlessly in a bread machine. Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or as a snack, this bread offers the natural sweetness of dried apricots paired with the richness of almonds. Made using a bread machine, this easy recipe requires minimal hands-on time while still yielding a soft, flavorful loaf. Whether you’re preparing it for a busy morning or for a family gathering, this bread will surely become a favorite.
Recipe Category:
Yeast Breads
Keywords:
Breads, Fruit, Nuts, Healthy, Brunch, Bread Machine, For Large Groups, Small Appliance, Under 4 Hours, Easy
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Water | 1 cup |
| Egg | 1/4 cup |
| Butter | 1 tbsp |
| Salt | 1 tsp |
| Bread Flour | 1 cup |
| Sugar | 3 tbsp |
| Bread Machine Yeast | 2 tsp |
| Dried Apricots | 2/3 cup |
| Almonds (chopped) | 1/4 cup |
| Ground Cinnamon | 1/4 tsp |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 121.5 |
| Total Fat | 2 g |
| Saturated Fat | 1.1 g |
| Cholesterol | 17 mg |
| Sodium | 161.8 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 22.7 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.1 g |
| Sugars | 2.9 g |
| Protein | 3.1 g |
Preparation Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
3 hours
Total Time:
3 hours 15 minutes
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Bread Machine:
Begin by adding all the ingredients into the bread machine pan in the order recommended by the manufacturer. Typically, this means starting with the wet ingredients (water and egg), followed by the dry ingredients (bread flour, sugar, salt), and finishing with the yeast. Be sure to add the dried apricots and chopped almonds along with the flour to ensure even distribution throughout the dough. -
Set the Machine:
Select the basic or white bread cycle on your bread machine. Choose a light or medium crust setting depending on how dark you prefer the crust. The machine will do the rest, kneading the dough, allowing it to rise, and baking it into a perfectly golden loaf. -
Cool the Bread:
Once the baking cycle is complete, carefully remove the bread from the pan. Allow the loaf to cool on a wire rack to prevent it from becoming soggy. This step helps the bread firm up and makes it easier to slice. -
Serve:
Once cooled, slice the bread into 16 pieces. The bread is now ready to be enjoyed as a healthy snack, part of a larger brunch spread, or served with a dollop of jam or butter for an extra indulgent treat.
Tips for Best Results:
-
Adding Nuts and Fruit: If you prefer more texture in your bread, you can adjust the quantity of apricots and almonds to suit your taste. Be sure to chop the almonds to your desired size for easier incorporation into the dough.
-
Flavor Variations: Experiment by adding other dried fruits, such as raisins or cranberries, or substituting the almonds with other nuts like pecans or walnuts for a unique twist.
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For a Crunchier Crust: If you love a slightly crispier crust, opt for the medium or dark crust setting on your bread machine.
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Storage: Once completely cooled, store the bread in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature. For longer storage, freeze individual slices and toast them as needed.
Final Thoughts:
This Apricot Almond Bread is a wonderful example of how a bread machine can turn simple ingredients into something extraordinary. The combination of sweet, tangy apricots with the rich flavor of almonds provides a delightful contrast that’s sure to please. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner, this recipe is easy to follow and yields a loaf that’s perfect for sharing.
Make it for your next brunch gathering or just as a treat for yourself—you’ll enjoy every bite!
