The aroma of apple and cinnamon gently filling the kitchen is a clear indication of Amish Apple Fritter Bread baking in the oven, a loaf that speaks to both the heart and palate with its comforting and homely charm. This bread is a tribute to the Amish tradition of embracing natural ingredients and simple cooking techniques, a practice rooted in the heritage of Dutch and German settlers in Pennsylvania. Apple fritters and their variations have long been a cornerstone of Amish and traditional American country cuisine, offering a slice of coziness with each bite. Whether enjoyed as a warm start to the day or as a sweet addition to afternoon tea, this bread’s delightful combination of soft apples, warming spices, and tender crumb makes it irresistibly inviting.
For those who wish to elevate this rustic treat, a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can transform it into a decadent dessert. Alternatively, for a breakfast or brunch setting, pairing it with strong black coffee or ice-cold milk complements its sweetness, while crispy bacon or savory sausage can offer a deliciously contrasting taste.
Ingredients:
1/3 cup light brown sugar
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
2 large apples, peeled, cored, and diced
2/3 cup white sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 eggs, at room temperature
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 3/4 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 cup milk
For the Glaze:
1/2 cup powdered sugar
2-3 tablespoons milk or cream
Directions:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
Mix brown sugar and 1 teaspoon cinnamon in a bowl. Coat the diced apples in this mixture; set aside.
Cream white sugar and butter until fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then the vanilla.
Sift flour and baking powder together. Gradually mix into the creamed mixture, alternating with milk.
Pour half the batter into the pan. Add half the apple mix, patting down lightly. Cover with remaining batter and apples.
Bake for 50-60 minutes. Cool slightly before glazing.
For the glaze, mix powdered sugar with milk or cream to desired consistency and drizzle over the bread.
Variations & Tips:
Mix in chopped walnuts or pecans with the apples for extra crunch.
Substitute milk with heavy cream for a richer loaf.
Add apple sauce to the batter for additional moisture.
Enhance the spice mix with nutmeg or allspice.
Canned apples can be used off-season, though fresh apples are recommended for the best result.
This Amish Apple Fritter Bread, best served warm, is a testament to the joy of simple, comforting bakes. Whether as a gesture of hospitality or a treat for your own enjoyment, its warm spices and tender apples are sure to bring a touch of coziness to any table. Bon appetit!
