Dutch Apple Bread

Dutch Apple Bread is a delightful twist on traditional apple pie, combining the comforting flavors of apples, cinnamon, and streusel in a convenient and easy-to-enjoy loaf. This recipe brings together the warmth of a coffee cake with the familiar goodness of apple pie, resulting in a sweet slice of comfort perfect for breakfast, dessert, or anytime you need a little pick-me-up.

Ingredients:

For the Bread:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 cup unsweetened applesauce

For the Streusel Topping:

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

For the Glaze (Optional):

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1-2 tablespoons milk
• 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch (23×13 cm) loaf pan.

Step 2: Prepare the Streusel Topping

1. In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup of flour, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 1/2 cup of cold, cubed butter, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon.
2. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. Set it aside.

Step 3: Make the Bread Batter

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add 2 large eggs and 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with 1 cup of unsweetened applesauce. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

1. Pour half of the bread batter into the prepared loaf pan.
2. Sprinkle half of the streusel topping over the batter.
3. Add the remaining batter and top it with the remaining streusel.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the streusel starts to brown too quickly, you can tent the bread with aluminum foil.

Step 5: Prepare the Glaze (Optional)

1. If you’d like to add a glaze, mix 1/2 cup of powdered sugar, 1-2 tablespoons of milk, and 1/2 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract in a small bowl.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

1. Allow the Dutch Apple Bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
2. Drizzle with the glaze, if desired.

Notes:

• Dutch Apple Bread is best enjoyed on the day it’s made, but you can store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for a day or two.
• Feel free to customize this bread by adding chopped nuts or raisins to the batter.
• Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert, or enjoy it with a cup of coffee for a cozy breakfast.

Dutch Apple Bread is a comforting and indulgent treat that beautifully combines the flavors of apple pie with the convenience of a loaf. Whether shared with loved ones or savored alone, this sweet and spiced bread is sure to bring a smile to your face with every bite.