Apricot bread is like a summer day stored in one cozy piece of pastry, which promises pleasure for everyone who indulges in it. Its preparation is a kind of tribute to the seasonal fruits that give this recipe its unmistakable taste and charm. Imagine sweet, juicy apricots intertwining with delicious dough, creating a perfect harmony of flavors that will immediately transport you to a sunny meadow full of blossoming apricot trees.
Ingredients such as plain flour, crystal and brown sugar, along with butter and vanilla extract, are the mainstays of this recipe. The brown sugar adds a rich caramel depth, while the vanilla brings a subtle yet distinct aroma that perfectly complements the sweetness of the apricots. Baking powder and a pinch of salt ensure that the resulting bread will have the right texture and taste that you won’t get tired of.
This apricot bread is not just any ordinary pastry; it is a creation that hides the love of baking, the joyful anticipation of the summer months and memories of sweet moments spent with loved ones. The process of its preparation is like a dance – the combination of dry and wet ingredients in a perfectly balanced rhythm that ends in the smell of hot summer full of ripe apricots.
Every step, from preheating the oven, to mixing the ingredients, to baking, is full of anticipation and represents the path to the final triumph – golden bread with pieces of sweet apricots that melt on the tongue. And let’s not forget the almond rings, which provide a beautiful contrast of textures and add a light nutty note to the whole sandwich.
Apricot bread is more than just food. It is a celebration of summer, nature and the simple pleasures that life brings us. And whether you treat yourself to it for breakfast with coffee or as a sweet treat for afternoon tea, it will always offer you a moment of pure gastronomic bliss that you will want to enjoy again and again.
Apricot bread recipe
Ingredients
- 240 g plain flour
- 100 g of granulated sugar
- 100 g of brown sugar
- 1 and ½ teaspoons of baking powder
- Pinch of salt
- 1 egg
- 240 ml of milk
- 80 g of butter
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 300 g of apricots or to taste
- 35 g of almonds
Procedure
- Preheat the oven to 180 °C and grease a bread pan with oil and sprinkle with flour.
- Put sugar, flour, baking powder, salt in a bowl and mix well.
- In the second bowl, beat the egg, milk, melted butter and vanilla until smooth (about 1 minute). Gradually add about 4 times the dry ingredients and beat after each addition.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- After baking, let it cool first in the form for about 5 minutes and then turn it out onto a wire rack and let it cool completely.
Apricot bread questions and answers
Can I use canned apricots instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use canned apricots, but it is recommended to drain them well first to remove any excess syrup or water that could affect the consistency of the batter.
What type of flour is best for apricot bread?
Smooth flour is ideal for this recipe, which will ensure a soft and light bread texture. If you are looking for a healthier alternative, you can try whole wheat flour, but the result may be a little thicker.
Can I replace the brown sugar with another type of sugar in the recipe?
Yes, you can replace the brown sugar with white granulated sugar or coconut sugar. However, brown sugar adds additional moisture and caramel flavor to the bread.
How long does apricot bread stay fresh?
Apricot bread will keep at room temperature for 2-3 days if it is well covered. For a longer shelf life, you can store it in the refrigerator, where it will last for about a week.
Can apricot bread be frozen?
Yes, you can successfully freeze apricot bread. Wrap it in food foil and then in aluminum foil or put it in a suitable bag in the freezer. It will last up to 3 months. Allow the bread to gradually thaw at room temperature before serving.
What are the best tips for the perfect apricot bread?
Use ripe but firm apricots for the best flavor and texture.
Do not mix the dough for too long to avoid a hard and rubbery result.
Sprinkle the top of the bread with almonds before putting it in the oven, which adds a lovely crust and nutty flavor.
Always use a toothpick to test; the bread is ready when the toothpick comes out clean.
Can I add other fruits or nuts to the dough?
Yes, you can experiment with adding a different type of fruit like raisins, blueberries, or chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to change the flavor and texture.
How should I store apricot bread to keep it fresh for as long as possible?
To preserve freshness, wrap the bread in cling film or store it in a sealed container. For extra protection against drying out, you can store it in the refrigerator, but remember to let it come to room temperature before serving.
