ππ₯ππ° Apricot Pecan Eggnog Bread ππ₯ππ°
What is it?
Apricot Pecan Eggnog Bread is a delightful and flavorful baked treat that combines the sweetness of apricots, the nuttiness of pecans, and the rich, creamy taste of eggnog. It’s a perfect fusion of holiday flavors, making it a fantastic choice for festive gatherings and breakfasts.
History:
The exact origin of this specific bread recipe is not well-documented, but it likely emerged as a variation of traditional fruit and nut bread recipes. Eggnog itself has a rich history, dating back to medieval Europe. It was originally made with milk, eggs, and spices, often spiked with alcohol. Over time, it became a popular holiday drink in North America. Combining eggnog with apricots and pecans in bread form is a creative twist on these classic flavors.
Components:
- Apricots: Dried apricots are typically used in this recipe. They add a natural sweetness and a chewy texture.
- Pecans: Chopped pecans provide a delightful crunch and a rich, nutty flavor.
- Eggnog: Eggnog is the star ingredient here, contributing creaminess and the traditional eggnog flavor.
- Flour: All-purpose flour serves as the base for the bread.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar adds sweetness to the bread.
- Baking Powder: This leavening agent helps the bread rise.
- Salt: A pinch of salt enhances the overall flavor.
- Eggs: Eggs bind the ingredients together and contribute to the eggnog theme.
- Vanilla Extract: Adds a lovely depth of flavor.
- Butter: Unsalted butter provides richness and moisture to the bread.
Steps to Prepare:
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Preparation: Preheat your oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C) and grease a loaf pan.
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Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of granulated sugar, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and a pinch of salt.
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Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together 2 large eggs, 1 cup of eggnog, 1/2 cup of melted unsalted butter, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
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Mix It Up: Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; lumps are okay.
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Fold in Goodies: Gently fold in 1 cup of chopped dried apricots and 1/2 cup of chopped pecans.
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Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for approximately 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Cool: Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
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Serve: Once cooled, slice your Apricot Pecan Eggnog Bread into thick, delicious pieces. Enjoy it with a hot cup of coffee or tea!
Time Needed:
- Preparation: 15 minutes
- Baking: 50-60 minutes
- Cooling: 1 hour (approximately)
- Total Time: Approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes
This delightful bread is a perfect addition to your holiday menu, offering a harmonious blend of seasonal flavors that will have everyone coming back for more! πππ₯ππ°π
Certainly! Here are the approximate nutrition facts and some health information for Apricot Pecan Eggnog Bread:
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, assuming 12 servings):
- Calories: Approximately 290
- Total Fat: About 13g
- Saturated Fat: About 6g
- Cholesterol: Approximately 55mg
- Sodium: About 170mg
- Total Carbohydrates: Approximately 38g
- Dietary Fiber: About 1g
- Sugars: About 20g
- Protein: Approximately 5g
Health Information:
- Moderate Calories: This bread provides moderate calorie content, making it a suitable treat in moderation.
- Moderate Fat: It contains a moderate amount of fat, mainly from butter and pecans. Be mindful of portion sizes.
- Moderate Sugar: The sugar content is relatively moderate, but it’s important to be aware of added sugars in your diet.
- Source of Protein: This bread offers a modest amount of protein, which is essential for various bodily functions.
- Eggnog Flavor: The eggnog flavor comes from eggnog itself, which may contain dairy and eggs. It adds a unique taste but can be high in saturated fat and cholesterol.
- Dried Apricots: Dried apricots provide some natural sweetness and dietary fiber.
- Pecans: Pecans contribute healthy fats, protein, and micronutrients like magnesium and zinc, but they are calorie-dense, so consume them in moderation.
- Portion Control: Enjoy this bread as an occasional treat rather than a daily indulgence to maintain a balanced diet.
- Variations: You can make this bread healthier by using low-fat eggnog, reducing sugar, or incorporating whole wheat flour for added fiber.
Remember that these values are approximate and can vary based on specific brands and ingredient choices. Enjoy Apricot Pecan Eggnog Bread as part of a balanced diet during the holiday season! ππ₯ππ°π
