If you’re looking for a delicious and easy way to celebrate the season, look no further than this Harvest Pumpkin Apple Spice Quick Bread Recipe. This moist and tender bread is loaded with pumpkin puree, chopped apples, walnuts, chocolate chips, and warm spices. It’s perfect for breakfast, snack, or dessert.
Plus, it’s super simple to make. You just need one large bowl, a whisk, and a loaf pan. No mixer required. In less than 20 minutes, you’ll have a scrumptious loaf of pumpkin apple spice bread in the oven. The best flavors of the fall seasonwill fill your home with the most amazing aroma.
Fall Must Make Recipes
Fall is here, and that means it’s time to enjoy cozy sweaters and the flavors of pumpkin, apple, and cinnamon spice.
As the leaves turn golden and the air becomes crisp, there’s no better way to celebrate the magic of fall than with a slice of Harvest Quick Bread. This delightful recipe captures the essence of the season with its warm, comforting flavors and a touch of holiday magic. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to bring smiles and cozy memories to your home.
The warm spices and comforting aroma of this bread make it an ideal treat for Thanksgiving and any autumn gatherings. It’s a charming addition to your holiday table, and you’ll love the way it fills your home with a delightful, cozy fragrance.
Why You’ll Love Harvest Spice Bread
This spice bread embodies the spirit of fall and the holiday season. It’s a wonderful addition to your Thanksgiving or Christmas table, impressing both family and guests.
Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, as an afternoon snack with a cup of tea, or even as a dessert with a scoop of ice cream, Harvest Spice Bread is incredibly versatile. It can be a delightful companion throughout the day.
Full of flavor. A moist and soft cake-like bread full of fall flavors.
Versatile recipe. You can add your own creative touch by incorporating optional ingredients like nuts, dried fruit, or even chocolate chips, tailoring the bread to your taste.
No Mixer required. Just add the ingredients and pour into a prepared loaf pan.
Ingredients
Each ingredient in this Harvest Pumpkin Apple Spice Quick Bread contributes to its delightful taste and texture. Here’s a closer look at some of the ingredients and their attributes.
Pumpkin. Canned pumpkin puree brings a creamy texture and a burst of earthy flavor to the bread. It’s also a rich source of vitamin A and fiber.
Apples. Grated fresh apples introduce natural sweetness and a pleasant texture. They’re a great source of dietary fiber, vitamin C, and various antioxidants.
Spices (Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Cloves). These spices provide warmth and depth to the bread’s flavor. They not only taste fantastic but also offer potential health benefits, such as anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Nuts and Dried Fruit. Walnuts or pecans add a delightful crunch, while dried cranberries or raisins infuse sweetness. Nuts are a good source of healthy fats and protein, and cranberries are known for their antioxidant content.
Chocolate. Just a hint of chocolate here and there adds just the right amount of sweet. The combination creates a harmony of flavors, making this bread a treat for those who adore the marriage of chocolate and seasonal spices.
Preparation
The preparation process for our Harvest Pumpkin Apple Spice Quick Bread is straightforward and yields delicious results. Here’s a detailed breakdown of each step and the approximate time required.
Preheat the Oven. Then start working on the Dry Ingredients. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients, which include flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. This step takes about 5 minutes to ensure the even distribution of the leavening agents and spices.
In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This process takes about 8 minutes. You can use an electric mixer for quicker results.
Mix the Wet Ingredients. Add the eggs one at a time to the butter and sugar mixture, ensuring they are well incorporated. Then, stir in the canned pumpkin and shredded apple. This step takes approximately 5 minutes.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. This should take around 3 minutes. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a denser bread.
Optional Addition. If you choose to add chocolate, nuts and dried cranberries or raisins, fold them into the batter. This step takes approximately 3 minutes.
Pour the batter into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.
Baking (60-70 minutes). Bake your bread in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes. Start checking for doneness around the 60-minute mark by inserting a toothpick into the center of the loaf. When it comes out clean, your bread is ready. The exact baking time may vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on it.
Cooling (10 minutes). Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. The cooling process generally takes around 2 hours.
Family Recipe for Fall
This great recipe holds a special place in my heart as it reminds me of family gatherings and the joy of sharing delicious food with loved ones during the fall season. It’s a recipe that has been passed down through generations, and I’m thrilled to share it with you.
As you savor each slice of this Harvest Pumpkin Apple Spice Quick Bread, may it bring you warmth, comfort, and a sense of togetherness. Happy baking, and may this recipe become a cherished part of your own autumn traditions.
Quick Bread Harvest Spice Bread Recipe Tips and Tricks
For a more intense flavor, you can roast the pumpkin and apple beforehand.
Use a mix of apples for a dynamic flavor profile. Granny Smith adds tartness, while Honeycrisp or Gala apples bring sweetness.
If you’re feeling indulgent, a drizzle of cream cheese frosting can elevate this bread to dessert status.
Variations to This Quick Bread
Variations of this recipe can add exciting twists to your bread. Here are a few ideas to consider:
Gluten-Free Version. To make the bread gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure the blend contains xanthan gum or a similar binding agent for better texture.
Vegan Adaptation. For a vegan version, replace the eggs with flax eggs or your preferred egg substitute. Use dairy-free butter or coconut oil as a butter substitute.
Sweet Potato Swap. Instead of pumpkin, you can use mashed sweet potatoes, which impart a slightly different flavor but are equally delightful.
Add a Streusel Topping. Make your bread extra special by adding a streusel topping made from butter, brown sugar, and oats. It adds a delicious crunch to every bite.
Swap out the ingredients. Think about using different nuts such as pecans or macadamia nuts. Change up the dried fruit and add dried cranberries or raisins.
We encourage you to experiment with these variations and discover your favorite twist on this classic recipe. Feel free to share your own creative adaptations in the comments section below; we’d love to hear about your culinary adventures!
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Harvest Pumpkin Apple Spice Quick Bread with a steaming mug of apple cider, a dollop of freshly whipped cream, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
Storage and Shelf Life
Store your leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. For longer freshness, freeze slices and reheat as needed.
Room Temperature. You can keep your freshly baked Harvest Pumpkin Apple Spice Quick Bread at room temperature in an airtight container or wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 3-4 days. It’s best to store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
Refrigeration. If you need to store the bread for a longer period, or if your kitchen is particularly warm and humid, you can refrigerate it. Place the bread in an airtight container or wrap it in plastic wrap, and it will last for about 7-10 days in the refrigerator. Be aware that refrigeration may slightly alter the texture, making it denser, but it’ll still be delicious.
Freezer. To extend the shelf life of your Harvest Pumpkin Apple Spice Quick Bread, freezing is an excellent option. Make sure it’s completely cooled before freezing. You can either wrap the entire loaf or slice it into individual servings, wrap them in plastic wrap, and store them in an airtight container or a resealable freezer bag. Properly stored, the bread can stay in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen bread, simply remove the slices or loaf from the freezer and allow them to thaw at room temperature or warm them up in an oven at a low temperature for that fresh-baked feel.
You can savor the delightful flavors of this bread even days or weeks after you’ve baked it. Whether you choose room temperature, refrigeration, or freezing, you’ll always have a taste of autumn at your fingertips.
Give This Delicious Fall Recipe a Try
As the crisp autumn air sets in and the leaves adorn themselves with hues of gold and crimson, our Harvest Pumpkin Apple Spice Quick Bread emerges as the perfect culinary companion to this enchanting season.
It’s the perfect recipe for fall treats. This delightful recipe brings the warmth and charm of fall into your kitchen, offering a comforting embrace with every mouthful.
The combination of pumpkin, apple, and a medley of spices creates a flavor profile that’s truly magical, reminding us of cozy gatherings and cherished traditions. This simple bread is a great way to add homemade taste to your holiday table or a delightful treat for a quiet afternoon by the fireplace.
Whether you’re an experienced baker or just discovering the joys of baking, this recipe is designed to be accessible and rewarding. You’ll be amazed at the smiles it brings to your family and friends.
We encourage you to embrace the spirit of fall, the joy of sharing, and the delight of delicious homemade treats.
Give this recipe a try, and let its wonderful aroma fill your home. Don’t forget to share your thoughts, experiences, and any creative variations you explore. Your journey into the world of culinary creativity begins here.
Harvest Pumpkin Apple Spice Quick Bread Recipe
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Kitchen Essentials
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 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
- 1/4 Teaspoon Ground Cloves
- 1/2 Cup Unsalted Butter softened
- 1 Cup Granulated Sugar
- 2 Large Eggs
- 1 Cup Pumpkin Puree
- 1 Cup Apple peeled and cored, diced or grated
- 1/2 Cup Walnuts or pecans chopped (optional)
- 1/2 Cup Dried Cranberries or raisins (optional)
- ½ Cup Chocolate Chips (optional)
Instructions
- First thing is to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Using a 9×5-inch loaf pan, grease the sides and bottom of the pan. You can use softened butter or non-stick baking spray.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.1 1/2 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, 1/4 Teaspoon Ground Cloves
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. You can use a whisk or an electric handheld mixer.1/2 Cup Unsalted Butter, 1 Cup Granulated Sugar
- Using a small knife or a peeler, peel the apples. Then either dice or shred using a simple box grater.1 Cup Apple
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the pumpkin and grated apple.2 Large Eggs, 1 Cup Pumpkin Puree
- Gradually combine the flower mixture into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- If desired, fold in the nuts, dried fruit, and chocolate chips.1/2 Cup Walnuts, 1/2 Cup Dried Cranberries, ½ Cup Chocolate Chips
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
- Bake for 60-70 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
