Best Apricot Almond Gift Bread Recipes

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APRICOT ALMOND BREAD ( BREADMAKER 1 1/2 LB. LOAF)



Apricot Almond Bread ( Breadmaker 1 1/2 Lb. Loaf) image

Make and share this Apricot Almond Bread ( Breadmaker 1 1/2 Lb. Loaf) recipe from Food.com.

Provided by Mercy

Categories     Yeast Breads

Time 3h15m

Yield 16 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 10

1 (6 ounce) jar apricot baby food
1/4 cup water (70 to 80ºF)
1 large egg
2 tablespoons butter, cut up
1 teaspoon salt
3 cups bread flour
2 tablespoons sugar
2 teaspoons bread machine yeast
1/4 cup dried apricot, quartered
1/4 cup slivered almonds, toasted (optional)

Steps:

  • Measure all ingredients into bread machine pan in the order suggested by manufacturer, adding apricots and nuts with flour.
  • Process in basic/white bread cycle; light or medium/normal color crust setting, depending on how your machine bakes.
  • Remove baked bread from pan; cool on wire rack.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 121.5, Fat 2, SaturatedFat 1.1, Cholesterol 17, Sodium 161.8, Carbohydrate 22.7, Fiber 1.1, Sugar 2.9, Protein 3.1

APRICOT BREAD



Apricot Bread image

This is my most asked-for recipe. I've used it for many years, which is obvious from my recipe card that's yellowed and full of stains. The fruity appearance and taste of this easy-to-make bread blend beautifully with our warm Florida sunshine. It's always a hit whenever I serve it.

Provided by Taste of Home

Time 1h5m

Yield 1 loaf.

Number Of Ingredients 11

1 cup snipped dried apricots
2 cups warm water
1 cup sugar
2 tablespoons butter, softened
1 large egg
3/4 cup orange juice
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup chopped nuts

Steps:

  • Preheat oven to 350°. Soak apricots in warm water for 30 minutes. Meanwhile, in a bowl, cream the sugar, butter and egg. Stir in orange juice. Combine flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt; stir into creamed mixture just until combined. Drain apricots well; add to batter with nuts. Pour into a greased 9x5-in. loaf pan. Bake at 350° for 55 minutes or until bread tests done. Cool 10 minutes in pan before removing to a wire rack.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 184 calories, Fat 5g fat (1g saturated fat), Cholesterol 17mg cholesterol, Sodium 242mg sodium, Carbohydrate 32g carbohydrate (17g sugars, Fiber 1g fiber), Protein 4g protein.

APRICOT-ALMOND GIFT BREAD



Apricot-Almond Gift Bread image

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.

Provided by Susan G. Purdy

Categories     Brunch     Breakfast     Dessert     Bake     Cake     Bread     Food Processor     Dried Fruit     Almond     Fall     Winter     Edible Gift     Kidney Friendly     Vegetarian     Pescatarian     Peanut Free     Soy Free     Kosher

Yield Makes 1 large loaf or 3 baby loaves

Number Of Ingredients 19

Bread:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1½ teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup granulated sugar
3 tablespoons wheat germ
1 cup dried apricots (moist-style)
½ cup (2½ ounces) blanched almonds
⅓ cup canola or light olive oil
1 large egg, at room temperature
¾ cup apricot nectar or buttermilk
1 teaspoon almond extract
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Icing (optional):
⅔ cup sifted confectioners' sugar
2 to 3 tablespoons milk, water, or fruit juice (or as needed)
Special Equipment
9- by 5- by 3-inch loaf pan or three 5¾- by 3¼- by 2-inch baby loaf pans; food processor and kitchen shears or cutting board and knife; wooden skewer or cake tester.

Steps:

  • Pan preparation:
  • Butter the pan(s) or spray with butter-flavor nonstick vegetable spray and dust with flour. Tap out the excess flour.
  • Make bread:
  • Position rack in center of oven. Preheat oven to 350°F.
  • 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 (¼-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 below), 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.
  • Make icing:
  • To make the 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.
  • Cooks' Note
  • Icing measurements stay the same at all elevations, but if you are baking the bread at high altitude, follow the adjustments below.
  • If baking at 3,000 feet:
  • Increase flour to 2 cups plus 1 tablespoon. Decrease baking soda to ¼ teaspoon. Decrease granulated sugar to 1 cup minus 1 tablespoon. Increase to 2 large eggs. Place rack in center of oven; bake large loaf at 375° for 50-55 minutes, baby loaves for 30-35 minutes.
  • If baking at 5,000 feet:
  • Increase flour to 2 cups plus 1 tablespoon. Decrease baking powder to 1¼ teaspoons plus ⅛ teaspoon. Decrease baking soda to ¼ teaspoon. Decrease granulated sugar to 1 cup minus 2 tablespoons. Increase to 2 large eggs. Increase apricot nectar (or buttermilk) to ¾ cup plus 2 tablespoons. Place rack in lower third of oven; bake large loaf at 375° for 48-50 minutes, baby loaves for 35-40 minutes.
  • If baking at 7,000 feet:
  • Increase flour to 2 cups plus 2 tablespoons. Decrease baking powder to 1¼ teaspoons. Decrease baking soda to ¼ teaspoon. Decrease granulated sugar to ¾ cup. Increase to 2 large eggs. Use buttermilk, not nectar, and increase to 1 cup. Place rack in lower third of oven; bake large loaf at 350° for 60-62 minutes, baby loaves for 30-35 minutes.
  • If baking at 10,000 feet:
  • Increase flour to 2¼ cups. Decrease baking powder to 1¼ teaspoons. Decrease baking soda to ⅛ teaspoon. Increase salt to ½ teaspoon plus ⅛ teaspoon. Decrease granulated sugar to ¾ cup minus 1 tablespoon. Increase to 2 large eggs. Use buttermilk, not nectar, and increase to 1 cup. Place rack in lower third of oven; bake large loaf at 350° for 60-65 minutes, baby loaves for 32-37 minutes.

The History of Apricot Almond Gift Bread Recipes

The combination of apricot and almond is a match made in heaven. For decades, this delicious combination has been used in various baked goods, including cakes, muffins, bread, and even granola bars. Gift bread recipes' popularity grew in the United States in the 1940s and 1950s. It was the era of the homemade and the time when women started baking and cooking for their families in large quantities. This trend led to the rise of gift bread, which was baked in loaf pans and usually wrapped in cellophane with a bow to be given to guests at special occasions, such as holidays or family gatherings. Apricot almond gift bread recipes are the perfect example of this trend. They are usually made with a classic bread base of flour, sugar, eggs, and yeast but also include dried apricots and almond pieces. The result is a rich, moist bread that is perfect for breakfast or as a snack throughout the day.

The Benefits of Apricot Almond Gift Bread Recipes

In addition to being delicious, apricot almond gift bread recipes also offer several health benefits. Almonds are a great source of protein, fiber, and healthy fats, making them an excellent addition to any diet. The addition of dried apricots offers a good source of vitamins A and C, potassium, and fiber. Furthermore, gift bread recipes typically use less sugar and fat compared to other baked goods, making them a perfect alternative for those who want something sweet but not too indulgent.

Ways to Incorporate Apricot Almond Gift Bread into Your Day

There are several ways to incorporate apricot almond gift bread into your day. Toasted with a spread of butter, jam, or even cream cheese, gift bread makes a delicious breakfast or snack. It can also be sliced and added to a lunchbox or enjoyed with a cup of coffee or tea. Additionally, gift bread can be used as a base for a variety of desserts. It can be cubed and used as a topping for ice cream or pudding, or even turned into bread pudding or French toast.

Variations of Apricot Almond Gift Bread Recipes

While the classic apricot almond gift bread recipe is delicious on its own, there are several variations that can be tried to add some excitement to your baking routine. One such variation is the addition of shredded coconut, which adds a tropical twist to the bread. Another option is to add in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch. Additionally, you can experiment with different flours, such as whole wheat or spelt, to make the bread even more nutritious. The addition of honey or maple syrup instead of sugar can also make it a little more health-conscious.

Conclusion

Apricot almond gift bread recipes are a beloved classic that has stood the test of time. With its delicious combination of flavors, it's no surprise that this bread has been passed down for generations. Not only does it taste great, but it also offers several health benefits and can be enjoyed in many different ways throughout the day. So, next time you're looking for a tasty and easy recipe to whip up, give apricot almond gift bread a try – your taste buds will thank you.

Valuable Tips When Making Apricot Almond Gift Bread Recipes

Making gift bread recipes is a wonderful way to spread joy and happiness. Everyone loves receiving homemade bread as a gift, especially if it is baked with love and care. Apricot almond bread is a delicious and unique gift bread recipe that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you want to make it for Christmas, Thanksgiving, or as a thoughtful gift for someone special, this recipe will not disappoint. Here are some valuable tips to help you make the perfect apricot almond gift bread:
1. Use high-quality ingredients
The quality of the ingredients you use will greatly affect the taste and texture of your apricot almond bread. Make sure to use fresh and high-quality apricots, almonds, flour, and other ingredients. Avoid using old or spoiled ingredients as this will compromise the quality of your bread.
2. Toast the almonds
Toasting the almonds before adding them to your bread will add depth and flavor to your recipe. Toast the almonds in a pan over medium heat until they turn golden brown. Make sure to stir them constantly to prevent burning.
3. Soak the apricots
Soaking the apricots in hot water or orange juice will soften them and add moisture to your bread. This will prevent them from drying out and becoming tough during the baking process.
4. Choose the right pan
Choosing the right pan is crucial when making apricot almond bread. Use a 9 x 5 inch loaf pan that is non-stick or lined with parchment paper. This will ensure that your bread comes out easily and will not stick to the pan.
5. Don't overmix the batter
Overmixing the batter can result in a tough and dense bread. Mix the ingredients until just combined and be careful not to overmix. This will help to ensure a light and fluffy texture.
6. Bake at the right temperature and time
Baking at the right temperature and time is important to ensure that your bread is cooked through, but not overly dry or burnt. Bake your apricot almond bread at 350°F for about 50-60 minutes. Check the bread after 40 minutes and cover it with foil if it is getting too brown.
7. Let it cool before slicing
Allow your apricot almond bread to cool completely before slicing. This will help to prevent it from crumbling or falling apart. Use a serrated knife to slice the bread into even slices.
8. Wrap it up beautifully
Presentation is everything when it comes to gift bread recipes. Wrap your apricot almond bread in a beautiful wrapping paper or basket. You can also tie a ribbon around it or attach a personalized gift tag. It's the small details that make a big difference!
9. Store it properly
Store your apricot almond bread in an airtight container or bag at room temperature. It will last for up to 5 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. To thaw, let it sit at room temperature for a few hours.
10. Experiment with variations
Don't be afraid to experiment with different variations of your apricot almond bread recipe. You can add other ingredients such as chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or shredded coconut to add more flavor and texture. Have fun with it and let your creativity shine! These valuable tips will help you make the perfect apricot almond gift bread that will impress your friends and family. Remember to bake with love and care, and your bread will be a wonderful gift that everyone will appreciate!

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