Description: Spiced Apple Irish Bread is a warm, flavorful twist on traditional Irish soda bread. Made with fresh apples, cinnamon, and nutmeg, this bread has a soft, moist texture with a hint of sweetness—perfect for breakfast or an afternoon treat with tea.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Serving Size: Makes 1 loaf (8-10 slices)
Ingredients:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves (optional)
- 1 1/2 cups buttermilk
- 1 large egg
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups grated apple (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease and lightly flour a 9-inch round cake pan or a baking sheet.
- Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk the buttermilk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Combine the Ingredients:
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing gently with a wooden spoon or spatula.
- Fold in the grated apples and chopped nuts (if using). The dough will be slightly sticky.
- Shape and Bake:
- Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and shape it into a round loaf.
- Transfer to the prepared pan or baking sheet.
- Score the top with a deep “X” using a sharp knife.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve:
- Let the bread cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing.
- Serve warm with butter, honey, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence.
Enjoy this Spiced Apple Irish Bread, a comforting and flavorful treat with a deliciously soft crumb! 🍏🍞✨
