Imagine the warm, inviting aroma of freshly baked apple bread wafting through your home, beckoning you to take a bite! Our Bread Machine Apple Bread with Honey and Apple Cider is not just any loaf—it's a delightful fusion of sweet honey, tart apples, and the comforting essence of apple cider. Perfect for breakfast, a cozy afternoon snack, or even as a unique dessert, this recipe is an absolute must-try. With just 15 minutes of prep time and the magic of your bread machine, you’ll be indulging in this scrumptious treat in no time. Ready to elevate your baking game? Let’s dive into the delicious details!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 1 loaf
Ingredients
- 3 cups bread flour
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 cup apple cider
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 cup chopped apples
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all the ingredients: 3 cups of bread flour, 1/4 cup of honey, 1 cup of apple cider, 1 teaspoon of salt, 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast, 1 cup of chopped apples, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon.
- In a small bowl, mix the active dry yeast with a few tablespoons of warm apple cider (not hot, just warm to the touch) and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step activates the yeast.
- In the bread machine pan, add the ingredients in the following order: first, pour in the apple cider, followed by the honey, ensuring it is evenly distributed.
- Next, add the bread flour over the liquid ingredients, making sure to cover them completely. This helps to keep the yeast away from the liquid until the mixing begins.
- Sprinkle the salt over the top of the flour, and then add the cinnamon. Finally, make a small well in the center of the flour and add the activated yeast mixture.
- Close the lid of the bread machine and set it to the 'Quick Bread' setting. Select the appropriate size for a 1-pound loaf, if applicable.
- Once the machine starts mixing, check the dough after a few minutes. It should form a soft, slightly sticky ball. If it appears too dry, add a tablespoon of apple cider; if too wet, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time.
- After the mixing cycle is complete, add the chopped apples to the dough. You can fold them in gently using a spatula or the bread machine's paddle if it allows for additional mixing.
- Close the lid and allow the bread machine to continue with the baking cycle. This usually takes about 1 hour.
- Once the baking cycle is complete, carefully remove the bread pan from the machine using oven mitts, as it will be hot.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, slice the bread and enjoy it plain, or spread with butter or cream cheese for added flavor.
Tips
- Ingredient Quality: Use high-quality bread flour for the best texture. Fresh, crisp apples will enhance the flavor, so choose your favorites—Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work wonderfully!
- Yeast Activation: Ensure your apple cider is warm (not hot) when activating the yeast; this helps it bloom properly, resulting in a light and airy loaf.
- Layering Ingredients: Always add the liquid ingredients first in your bread machine to prevent the yeast from activating too early. This ensures a perfect rise during the baking process.
- Dough Consistency Check: Keep an eye on the dough as it mixes. It should form a soft, slightly sticky ball. Adjust with apple cider or flour as needed to achieve the right consistency.
- Add Apples at the Right Time: Fold in the chopped apples gently after the mixing cycle. This prevents them from getting crushed and ensures they remain chunky in the final loaf.
- Cooling Time: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps maintain its shape and prevents sogginess.
- Serving Suggestions: Enjoy your apple bread plain, or elevate it with a spread of butter or cream cheese. It also pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
