Dutch Apple Bread: A Delicious Fall Treat

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When the air turns crisp and apples are in abundance, there’s no better way to celebrate the season than with a warm loaf of Dutch Apple Bread. Made from scratch with fresh apples, butter, and sugar, this quick bread is bursting with cozy flavors. Topped with a cinnamon streusel and drizzled with a warm vanilla glaze, it’s the perfect treat for breakfast, a snack, or dessert. Whether you’re enjoying it with a cup of coffee or sharing it with friends, this apple bread is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Dutch Apple Bread

  • Full of Flavor: The combination of sweet apples, crunchy nuts, and a cinnamon-spiced streusel topping makes every bite a delight.
  • Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this bread is perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
  • Versatile Treat: This bread can be enjoyed any time of day, whether as a breakfast option, an afternoon snack, or a dessert.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Apple Bread Batter:

  • 1/2 Cup Softened Butter (1 Stick): Adds richness and flavor to the bread.
  • 1 Cup Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the bread and helps create a tender crumb.
  • 2 Large Eggs: Provides structure and moisture.
  • 1/2 Cup Milk: Adds moisture and helps bind the ingredients.
  • 1 Tsp Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavor with a warm, sweet note.
  • 2 Cups All-Purpose Flour: The base of the bread, providing structure.
  • 1/2 Tsp Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
  • 1 Tsp Baking Powder: Helps the bread rise and become fluffy.
  • 1 1/2 Cups Green Apple, Diced & Peeled: Adds fresh, tart apple flavor and moisture.
  • 1/2 Cup Walnuts or Pecans, Chopped: Adds a nutty crunch and extra texture.

For the Dutch Crumb Topping:

  • 5 Tbsp Cold Butter: Creates a crumbly, buttery topping.
  • 1/3 Cup Flour: Helps form the crumble.
  • 2 Tbsp Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness to the topping.
  • 2 Tbsp Brown Sugar: Adds a caramel-like depth to the topping.
  • 2 Tsp Ground Cinnamon: Brings warmth and spice to the topping.

For the Vanilla Glaze:

  • 1 Tbsp Melted Butter: Adds richness to the glaze.
  • 1/2 Cup Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and thickens the glaze.
  • 1 Tbsp Milk: Thins the glaze to the perfect drizzling consistency.
  • 1/4 Tsp Vanilla Extract: Adds flavor and complements the vanilla in the bread.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a bread pan with parchment paper or spray it with non-stick baking spray to ensure easy removal of the bread after baking.

2. Prepare the Apples:

  • Peel and dice the green apples into small, uniform pieces. Set them aside while you prepare the batter.

3. Make the Batter:

  • In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for creating a tender crumb in the bread.
  • Add the eggs, milk, and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture, stirring until well incorporated.
  • Gradually mix in the flour, salt, and baking powder until just combined—be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a denser bread.
  • Gently fold in the diced apples and chopped walnuts or pecans, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

4. Transfer the Batter:

  • Pour the batter into the prepared bread pan, spreading it out evenly.

5. Make the Dutch Crumb Topping:

  • In a small bowl, combine the cold butter, flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. Use a fork or pastry blender to mix the ingredients until the mixture becomes crumbly.
  • Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the batter in the pan.

6. Bake:

  • Place the bread in the preheated oven and bake for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the bread comes out clean. The internal temperature of the bread should reach 200°F (93°C) when fully cooked.
  • Let the bread cool in the pan before adding the glaze.

7. Prepare the Glaze:

  • In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. The glaze should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon but still pourable.

8. Glaze the Bread:

  • Once the bread has cooled, remove it from the pan and drizzle the glaze over the top. Allow the glaze to set slightly before slicing.

9. Serve:

  • Slice the bread and serve it as a delicious breakfast treat, snack, or dessert. Enjoy the combination of tender apple bread, crunchy streusel topping, and sweet vanilla glaze!

Notes

  • Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate the bread for up to a week or freeze it for up to 3 months.
  • Nut-Free Option: If you prefer a nut-free version, simply omit the walnuts or pecans.
  • Make Ahead: This bread can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Simply glaze before serving.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 439 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 58g
  • Protein: 6g
  • Fat: 21g
  • Saturated Fat: 11g
  • Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Monounsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 77mg
  • Sodium: 278mg
  • Potassium: 159mg
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 34g
  • Vitamin A: 576 IU
  • Vitamin C: 1mg
  • Calcium: 60mg
  • Iron: 2mg

Conclusion

This Dutch Apple Bread is the perfect way to enjoy the flavors of fall in a comforting and delicious treat. With its tender crumb, warm spices, and sweet glaze, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or dessert, this apple bread is a versatile and satisfying option that’s easy to make from scratch. Try this recipe today and savor the delicious taste of homemade apple bread!

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