Get ready to experience a mouthwatering journey that combines the rustic charm of farmhouse baking with the irresistible flavors of sweet apples and crunchy walnuts! This Farmhouse Apple Walnut Loaf isn't just another bread recipe - it's a warm, aromatic masterpiece that will fill your kitchen with the most incredible scent and have your family begging for seconds. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a weekend kitchen adventurer, this recipe promises to deliver a perfectly moist, deliciously spiced loaf that bridges the gap between comfort food and gourmet treat.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 5 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 1 loaf
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups chopped apples
- 1 cup chopped walnuts
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan with butter or line with parchment paper, ensuring complete coverage to prevent sticking.
- In a medium mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. Whisk the dry ingredients until well combined and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together using an electric mixer until light and fluffy, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add eggs one at a time to the butter-sugar mixture, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
- Gradually fold the dry flour mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, which can result in a dense loaf.
- Gently fold in the chopped apples and walnuts, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.
- Transfer the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly and smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean with just a few moist crumbs.
- Remove from the oven and let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, slice and serve. The loaf can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Tips
- Choose the Right Apples: Use firm, slightly tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best texture and flavor balance.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter and eggs are at room temperature for smoother mixing and better incorporation.
- Don't Overmix: Gently fold ingredients to keep the loaf tender - overmixing can lead to a tough, dense texture.
- Check for Doneness: Use the toothpick test, but remember a few moist crumbs are okay - they ensure a soft, moist loaf.
- Cooling is Crucial: Allow the loaf to cool completely before slicing to help it set and prevent crumbling.
- Storage Hack: Wrap the cooled loaf in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container to maintain moisture for up to 3 days.
- Optional Upgrade: Toast a slice and add a pat of butter for an extra indulgent treat!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 65mg
