Amish Apple Fritter Bread is the perfect blend of soft bread, spiced apples, and sweet cinnamon sugar glaze. This delicious quick bread is reminiscent of the popular apple fritters found in bakeries but in a loaf form. If you’re looking for a sweet treat to pair with coffee or as a dessert, this recipe is your answer.
The beauty of Amish baking lies in its simplicity and wholesome ingredients. This recipe, though easy to make, yields a moist and flavorful bread that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Amish Apple Fritter Bread
One of the most delightful aspects of this recipe is the short list of pantry-friendly ingredients. Here’s what you will need:
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup butter (1 stick), softened
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 apples, peeled and diced
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
- 2 tablespoons milk (for glaze)
Choosing the Right Apples for Amish Apple Fritter Bread
The type of apples you choose will have a huge impact on the flavor of your bread. Granny Smith apples are an excellent choice for their tartness, which contrasts beautifully with the sweet bread. However, if you prefer a sweeter bite, Fuji or Honeycrisp apples are great alternatives.
For a more detailed guide on selecting the best apples for baking, check out this resource on the best apples for baking.
Equipment and Tools You Will Need
Before diving into the recipe, it’s important to have the right tools on hand:
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- 8.5 x 4.5 x 2.5-inch loaf pan
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
- Oven
Having these tools ready will make the process much smoother and more enjoyable.
Step-by-Step Amish Apple Fritter Bread Recipe
Let’s walk through the steps to make this delicious bread.
1. Preparing the Loaf Pan
- Preheat your oven to 350ºF.
- Grease your loaf pan with non-stick spray or butter to ensure the bread releases easily after baking.
2. Making the Batter
- In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the brown sugar and 1 teaspoon cinnamon; set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the granulated sugar and butter until light and fluffy using an electric mixer.
- Add in the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until just combined.
- In a separate bowl, combine the flour and baking powder.
- Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Slowly add the milk, mixing until the batter is smooth and creamy.
3. Preparing the Apple Filling
- Peel and dice two apples into small cubes.
- In a small bowl, toss the apple pieces with 1 teaspoon of cinnamon and 2 tablespoons of sugar until the apples are evenly coated.
4. Assembling the Bread
- Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it out evenly.
- Layer half of the apple mixture on top of the batter.
- Pour the remaining batter over the apples, smoothing it out.
- Add the remaining apples on top and gently press them into the batter.
- Sprinkle the reserved cinnamon-sugar mixture over the top.
5. Baking the Bread
- Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 30 minutes before removing.
6. Making the Glaze
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons of milk until smooth.
- Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bread before slicing and serving.
For more baking tips for beginners, check out this helpful baking tips resource.
Tips for Perfect Amish Apple Fritter Bread
To achieve the perfect loaf of Amish Apple Fritter Bread, attention to detail in each step of the process is crucial. The following tips will guide you in ensuring that your bread turns out flavorful, moist, and beautifully textured:
1. Room Temperature Ingredients
Using room temperature eggs and butter is a simple step that makes a significant difference in the texture of your bread. When ingredients are at room temperature, they blend together more easily, creating a smoother batter. This leads to a fluffier, more tender crumb in your finished loaf. Cold butter and eggs can create lumps in the batter, resulting in an uneven texture and a denser loaf.
Tip: To quickly bring your butter to room temperature, cut it into small cubes and leave it out for about 10 minutes. For eggs, place them in a bowl of warm (not hot) water for 5 minutes before using.
2. Don’t Overmix
Overmixing the batter is one of the most common mistakes when making quick breads like Amish Apple Fritter Bread. When you stir the batter too much, it activates the gluten in the flour, making the bread tough and dense. To avoid this, mix the wet and dry ingredients just until they are combined. A few small lumps in the batter are perfectly fine – they will smooth out as the bread bakes.
Tip: Use a spatula or wooden spoon for mixing the batter instead of an electric mixer once you combine the wet and dry ingredients. This gives you better control and reduces the risk of overmixing.
3. Use Fresh Apples
The quality of your apples has a direct impact on the flavor and texture of your bread. Fresh, crisp apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji are ideal for this recipe because they hold up well during baking and maintain their structure. Avoid using apples that are overly soft or mushy, as they can release too much moisture, making the bread soggy.
Tip: For a perfect balance of sweet and tart, use a combination of apple varieties in your bread, such as a mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp. Also, be sure to peel the apples for a smoother texture in the bread.
4. Glaze Consistency
The glaze is the finishing touch on your Amish Apple Fritter Bread, and getting the consistency just right is key to achieving a beautiful presentation. If your glaze is too thick, it will be difficult to drizzle, and you won’t get that classic, smooth coating. If it’s too thin, it will run off the bread and not provide enough coverage. The perfect glaze should be thick but pourable, creating a shiny, sweet topping for your loaf.
Tip: If your glaze is too thick, add milk just one teaspoon at a time to thin it out. Conversely, if it’s too thin, add powdered sugar in small increments until you reach the desired consistency. Mix until smooth and lump-free before drizzling over the cooled bread.
By following these detailed tips, you’ll ensure that your Amish Apple Fritter Bread turns out with a perfect balance of flavors and textures every time!
Storing and Freezing Amish Apple Fritter Bread
This bread is just as delicious the next day and stores well. Here’s how to keep it fresh:
- Storing: Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
- Refrigeration: You can also store the bread in the refrigerator, but be sure to warm it up slightly before serving for the best texture.
- Freezing: This bread freezes beautifully! Simply wrap it in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then store in a freezer-safe bag. It will last up to 3 months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a rough nutritional breakdown for Amish Apple Fritter Bread:
- Calories per slice (1 of 12): 245 kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Sugar: 20g
- Protein: 3g
If you’re looking to make this bread healthier, consider the following adjustments:
- Use reduced-fat butter.
- Substitute half of the sugar with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.
- Use whole wheat flour in place of all-purpose flour for added fiber.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I use different types of apples?
Absolutely! Granny Smith apples are ideal for their tart flavor, but you can also use sweeter varieties like Fuji, Gala, or Honeycrisp. The key is to choose a firm apple that holds up well during baking.
Q2: Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend. Look for one that includes xanthan gum for the best results. Keep in mind that the texture might be slightly different from the original recipe.
Q3: How can I make this bread dairy-free?
For a dairy-free version, substitute the butter with vegan butter or coconut oil, and replace the milk with almond milk or oat milk. The flavor will change slightly, but the result will still be delicious.
Q4: How long can Amish Apple Fritter Bread be stored?
Stored at room temperature in an airtight container, the bread will last for 4 days. In the fridge, it will keep for up to 1 week, and in the freezer, it will last up to 3 months.
Q5: Can I make this recipe in muffin form?
Yes! This recipe works beautifully for muffins. Simply divide the batter and apples into a muffin tin and reduce the baking time to 20-25 minutes. Be sure to check the muffins with a toothpick for doneness.
How to Serve Amish Apple Fritter Bread
This bread is versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways:
- Serve it warm with a pat of butter for breakfast.
- Add a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for dessert.
- Pair it with a cup of coffee or tea for an afternoon snack.
- Use it as a sweet holiday gift by wrapping it in decorative paper.
Related Recipes You Might Enjoy
- Applesauce Bread – Another classic apple bread with a moist, cake-like texture.
- Caramel Apple Blondies – A decadent dessert featuring apples and a rich caramel drizzle.
- Classic Banana Bread – A quick and easy banana bread recipe that’s a family favorite.
Conclusion
Amish Apple Fritter Bread is the ultimate comfort food. With its soft, moist texture and delicious cinnamon apple flavor, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re enjoying it as a sweet breakfast treat or a cozy dessert, this bread is perfect for any occasion. So, gather your ingredients and start baking – you won’t be disappointed!