Apricot-Almond Gift Bread
This recipe is for baking at sea level. However, you will notice specifics related to baking at high altitude. This flavorful sweet bread is packed with dried fruit and nuts and has a very moist crumb. The recipe makes one large loaf or three small loaves that you can give for holiday gifts: leave them in their baking pans, wrap in a colorful napkin, and tie a card with the recipe printed on it. I often play with the flavor combinations in this festive recipe, using pecans or walnuts with dried sweet cherries and/or cranberries, plus orange juice, orange extract, and 1 tablespoon grated orange zest instead of the almond extract and apricot nectar. A food processor makes quick work of chopping the dried fruit and nuts, but you can also snip the apricots with kitchen shears wiped with a little oil, or chop all the fruit and nuts with a sharp knife on a cutting board.
This recipe is for baking at sea level. However, you will notice specifics related to baking at high altitude. This flavorful sweet bread is packed with dried fruit and nuts and has a very moist crumb. The recipe makes one large loaf or three small loaves that you can give for holiday gifts: leave them in their baking pans, wrap in a colorful napkin, and tie a card with the recipe printed on it. I often play with the flavor combinations in this festive recipe, using pecans or walnuts with dried sweet cherries and/or cranberries, plus orange juice, orange extract, and 1 tablespoon grated orange zest instead of the almond extract and apricot nectar. A food processor makes quick work of chopping the dried fruit and nuts, but you can also snip the apricots with kitchen shears wiped with a little oil, or chop all the fruit and nuts with a sharp knife on a cutting board.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 3 tablespoons wheat germ
- 1 cup dried apricots (moist-style)
- 1/2 cup (2 1/2 ounces) blanched almonds
- 1/3 cup canola or light olive oil
- 1 large egg, at room temperature
- 3/4 cup apricot nectar or buttermilk
- 2/3 cup sifted confectioners' sugar
- 2 to 3 tablespoons milk, water, or fruit juice (or as needed)
- pan preparation: butter the pan(s) or spray with butter-flavor nonstick vegetable spray and dust with flour. tap out the excess flour.
- 9- by 5- by 3-inch loaf pan or three 5 3/4- by 3 1/4- by 2-inch baby loaf pans; food processor and kitchen shears or cutting board and knife; wooden skewer or cake tester.
- Carbohydrate 660 g(220%)
- Cholesterol 186 mg(62%)
- Fat 124 g(190%)
- Fiber 32 g(129%)
- Protein 71 g(142%)
- Saturated Fat 16 g(80%)
- Sodium 2864 mg(119%)
- Calories 3950
Step-by-step
- Position rack in center of oven. Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Bake large loaf 60 to 65 minutes, baby loaves 40 to 45 minutes. Prepare pan(s) as directed.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, sugar, and wheat germ.
- If using a food processor, add the apricots and a generous tablespoon of the flour mixture to the bowl and pulse until the fruit is cut into small (1/4-inch) bits. Or, cut up the apricots with oiled kitchen shears or an oiled knife. Scrape the apricot bits into the bowl with the flour.
- Chop the nuts and add them to the dry ingredients.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the oil, egg, nectar or buttermilk, and extracts.
- Make a well in the middle of the dry ingredients and pour in the oil-egg mixture. Whisk or stir just to blend well; don't over mix.
- Scrape the batter into the prepared pan(s), filling them about two-thirds full.
- Bake 60 to 65 minutes for a large loaf, 40 to 45 minutes for small loaves (or for the time indicated for your altitude in the chart), or until the bread is golden brown and a cake tester inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool in the pan(s) on a wire rack.
- To make the optional icing, whisk together the sugar and liquid in a small bowl until thick and smooth.
- When the bread is completely cooled, drizzle the icing over the top; it will harden as it dries.
The Joy of Baking: Apricot-Almond Gift Bread - A Festive Treat
As a busy homemaker, juggling work, family, and the endless to-do list, finding time for baking can feel like a luxury. But sometimes, the simple act of creating something delicious from scratch becomes a much-needed moment of peace and self-care. This Apricot-Almond Gift Bread recipe has become my go-to for those times. It's not just a recipe; it's a gesture of warmth, a small token of appreciation I can share with loved ones during the holiday season or any special occasion.
The aroma of warm, nutty bread filling the kitchen is unbelievably comforting. This recipe is perfect for gifting; the loaves, nestled in their pans and wrapped in colorful napkins, look absolutely delightful. It's the kind of present that conveys thoughtfulness and care, far surpassing anything you could buy from a store. I've even added a little handwritten card with the recipe itself, encouraging others to bake their own batch of happiness. The ease of preparation is another appealing feature; it's straightforward enough for even a novice baker to handle. The subtle sweetness of the apricots, perfectly balanced by the crunchy almonds and a hint of almond extract, makes every bite a delectable experience. The moist crumb is simply irresistible; you’ll find yourself reaching for another slice.
What truly sets this recipe apart is its versatility. Over time, I’ve experimented with different flavor combinations. Pecans or walnuts, paired with dried sweet cherries and cranberries, alongside a zesty blend of orange juice, extract, and zest, adds a bright and citrusy twist. This bread isn't just a recipe, it's a canvas for creativity; you can adjust it to your preference and the seasons, reflecting the flavors of your favorite time of the year. Whether it's the warm spices of autumn or the refreshing citrus of spring, this bread always feels current and joyful. The recipe is easily adaptable to bake at different altitudes, making it perfect for baking enthusiasts all across the globe.
I love how this recipe brings people together. Whether I'm baking it for a family gathering, a neighborly exchange, or a holiday gift, it creates a sense of connection and shared joy. The act of giving, the thoughtfulness behind a homemade treat, and the delightful taste of the bread create lasting memories, far beyond the fleeting pleasure of a simple snack. It's a tradition I cherish and a gift that keeps on giving, not only in its deliciousness, but also in the warmth it shares.
Beyond the holiday gifting aspect, this bread is also wonderfully versatile for everyday enjoyment. A thick slice paired with a cup of tea or coffee makes for a perfect afternoon snack. Its satisfying texture and rich flavor also complement savory dishes surprisingly well. Imagine it accompanying a hearty soup or a simple salad. Its adaptability and consistent deliciousness make it a valuable addition to any home baker's repertoire.
The magic of this Apricot-Almond Gift Bread isn't just about the ingredients, or the precise measurements, it is about the intention behind the bake. It is a symbol of care, a testament to the joy found in creating something delicious to share with others. It reminds me that sometimes, the smallest gestures, the simplest pleasures, hold the greatest significance. So, if you are looking for a recipe that will not only tantalize taste buds but also warm hearts, this is your go-to choice. Embrace the process, allow yourself to be fully present in the act of baking, and savor the sweet rewards. Happy baking!
