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Caramel apple loaf

By: Drizzle

Servings: 10

Prep: 10 minutes mins

Cook: 45 minutes mins

Total: 55 minutes mins

5sp or 3pp per serving

Ingredients 

• ▢ 1 2/3 cups white flour
• ▢ 2 t baking powder
• ▢ 1/4 cup plus 1T brown sugar
• ▢ 1/2 t cinnamon
• ▢ 1 egg
• ▢ 1 egg white
• ▢ 1 t vanilla
• ▢ 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
• ▢ 1/2 cup almond milk, I use unsweetened original
• ▢ 1.5 cups diced apples
• ▢ 2 T caramel sauce, I used smuckers

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Instructions 

• Preheat oven to 350F, spray a regular sized loaf pan.
• Mix dry ingredients, but only add the 1/4 cup of brown sugar, set aside the 1T. Add wet ingredients, then gently fold in apples. Batter will be thick.
• Put half of your mixture into the pan. Sprinkle 1/2T of brown sugar evenly on to your mixture and then drizzle 1T caramel sauce.
• Fill the loaf pan with the rest of your batter and repeat with remaining brown sugar and caramel sauce.
• Bake in oven for approx. 45 minutes. The loaf does not rise to high. Let cool and cut into 10 pieces. 5sp or 3pp per slice.
• Nutritional info (not incl apples) Per slice, Calories 124… Fat 0.8g… Saturated fat 0.2g… Carbs 26… Fiber 1.1g… Sugars 8.5g… Protein 3.2g

Additional Info

Course: Baking

Tried this recipe?Mention @drizzlemeskinny or tag #drizzlemeskinny!

Essential Ingredients for Your Caramel Apple Loaf

Crafting the perfect caramel apple loaf begins with understanding the role of each ingredient. While the full list is detailed in the convenient recipe card above, let’s highlight some key components and why they contribute to this loaf’s exceptional character.

The Perfect Apples for Baking

The choice of apples is paramount for a truly outstanding loaf. You’ll want varieties that can hold their shape well during baking and offer a delightful balance of sweetness and tartness. Granny Smith apples are excellent for providing a tart counterpoint to the sweet caramel, while Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Braeburn apples offer a sweeter profile with a firm, crisp texture that won’t turn mushy. Dicing them into roughly 1/2-inch chunks ensures delightful bursts of fresh fruit in every single bite, adding both flavor and a pleasant textural contrast to the soft crumb.

Achieving Moistness and Rich Flavor

Unsweetened applesauce is a secret weapon in this recipe. It’s a fantastic ingredient that adds natural sweetness and a significant amount of moisture, allowing us to reduce the need for additional fats like oil or butter. This contributes to a lighter yet incredibly tender loaf. When combined with almond milk (unsweetened original is recommended for a balanced flavor), a whole egg, and an additional egg white, it creates a batter that is light, yet rich and perfectly binds the ingredients. Don’t underestimate the power of a good quality vanilla extract and a generous touch of cinnamon; these warm spices elevate the overall flavor profile, complementing the apples and caramel in a truly irresistible way.

The Irresistible Caramel Swirl

The star of the show, the caramel sauce, is what creates those pockets of chewy, sweet decadence throughout the loaf. For convenience and consistent results, a good quality store-bought caramel sauce, like Smucker’s, works perfectly. The technique of layering the caramel sauce within the batter, along with an additional sprinkle of brown sugar, ensures that sweet caramel flavor is beautifully distributed throughout the loaf, rather than just being a topping. This method results in ribbons of caramel that are discovered with every slice, making each bite an exciting treat.

Step-by-Step Guide to Baking Perfection

Baking this caramel apple loaf is a rewarding and straightforward process, suitable for bakers of all skill levels. Following these detailed steps will help ensure a perfectly baked, incredibly delicious treat every single time.

Preparation is Key

Before you even start mixing, proper preparation is essential. Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Next, take a regular-sized loaf pan (typically 9×5 inches) and thoroughly spray it with non-stick cooking spray, or grease and flour it. This crucial step prevents the loaf from sticking and ensures an easy release once it’s baked and cooled. It’s also a great practice to gather and measure all your ingredients beforehand, a technique known as *mise en place*. This makes the baking process smooth, efficient, and enjoyable, preventing last-minute rushes for ingredients.

Mixing the Batter with Care

In a large mixing bowl, combine all your dry ingredients: the white flour, baking powder, 1/4 cup of the brown sugar (remember to save the remaining 1 tablespoon for later), and cinnamon. Whisk these together until they are well combined. In a separate bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients: the whole egg, egg white, vanilla extract, unsweetened applesauce, and almond milk. Once the wet ingredients are thoroughly mixed, gradually add this liquid mixture to the dry ingredients. Mix until they are *just* combined. The golden rule for quick breads like this is not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly acceptable and will actually contribute to a more tender and moist loaf. Finally, gently fold in the diced apples, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the thick batter without crushing them.

The Caramel Layering Technique

This unique layering technique is what truly elevates this apple loaf to something extraordinary. Carefully pour about half of your thick apple batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly. Now, take half of the reserved 1 tablespoon of brown sugar (so, 1/2 tablespoon) and sprinkle it evenly over this first layer of batter. Then, drizzle 1 tablespoon of the caramel sauce over the brown sugar. This creates distinct, flavorful ribbons of sweetness and gooey caramel within the loaf. Next, carefully spoon the remaining batter over this caramel layer, spreading it gently to cover. Repeat the layering process with the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of brown sugar and 1 tablespoon of caramel sauce on top of the final batter layer.

Baking to Perfection and Cooling

Place your prepared loaf pan into the preheated oven and bake for approximately 45 minutes. The exact baking time can vary slightly depending on your oven, so it’s always a good idea to keep an eye on it. The loaf is done when a wooden skewer or toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, or with just a few moist crumbs attached. Don’t be surprised if this loaf doesn’t rise as high as some other breads; its dense filling of apple chunks means it will be wonderfully moist and rich, rather than exceptionally airy. Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. This cooling period is important for the loaf to set properly. After this initial cooling, carefully transfer the loaf to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. Cutting it into 10 generous pieces reveals the beautiful layers of apple and caramel within. Each slice offers a delectable experience.

Tips for an Even Better Caramel Apple Loaf

While the recipe itself is foolproof, these extra tips can help you achieve an even more exceptional caramel apple loaf, impressing everyone with your baking prowess.

Don’t Overmix the Batter!

This is arguably the most crucial tip for any quick bread. Overmixing the batter develops the gluten in the flour excessively, leading to a tough, dense, and chewy loaf rather than a tender, moist one. Mix your ingredients just until they are combined, and the flour streaks have disappeared. A few small lumps are perfectly fine and often preferred, as they result in a more delicate crumb texture.

Room Temperature Ingredients for Best Results

Whenever possible, ensure your eggs are at room temperature. Room temperature eggs emulsify more easily with other ingredients, creating a smoother, more uniform batter. This leads to a better rise and a more consistent texture in your finished loaf. If you forget to take them out in advance, you can quickly bring them to room temperature by placing them in a bowl of warm (not hot) water for 5-10 minutes.

Customize Your Spices

Cinnamon is a classic and delightful pairing with apples and caramel, but don’t hesitate to experiment with other warm spices to add depth to your loaf. A pinch of freshly grated nutmeg can bring a cozy, aromatic touch. A dash of ground ginger can add a subtle warmth, and a tiny amount of allspice could introduce complex, sweet, and pungent notes. Adjust to your personal preference for a truly unique flavor experience.

Verify Your Oven Temperature

Oven temperatures can vary significantly from one appliance to another. If you find that your loaf is baking too quickly on the outside, or if it consistently takes longer than the recipe specifies, your oven might be running hot or cold. Investing in an inexpensive oven thermometer can provide accurate readings, helping you adjust your baking times and temperatures for perfect results every time.

Creative Serving Suggestions & Delicious Variations

While this caramel apple loaf is utterly delicious on its own, it also shines when paired with a few creative additions or when customized to your taste. Here are some ideas to make your loaf even more special.

Serving Ideas to Savor

• Breakfast Treat: Start your day on a high note by enjoying a slice with your morning coffee or tea. It’s a wholesome and satisfying way to kick off any day.
• Afternoon Delight: This loaf makes a perfect companion for an afternoon break. Serve it simply, or add a dollop of creamy Greek yogurt or a light dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant touch.
• Decadent Dessert: For an indulgent dessert, warm a slice slightly and serve it with a scoop of premium vanilla ice cream, a generous drizzle of extra caramel sauce, or a cloud of freshly whipped cream. The warm loaf with cold ice cream is a match made in heaven!
• Holiday Favorite: This beautiful loaf is a fantastic addition to any holiday brunch spread or dessert table. Its seasonal flavors and comforting appeal are sure to impress your guests and become a festive tradition.

Exciting Variations to Explore

Don’t be afraid to get creative and personalize your caramel apple loaf. Baking is all about experimenting and finding what you love!

• Nutty Crunch: For an added layer of texture and rich, earthy flavor, fold in 1/2 cup of finely chopped walnuts or pecans along with the apples. They toast slightly during baking, adding a delightful crunch.
• Streusel Topping: Before baking, prepare a simple streusel by combining 1/4 cup flour, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, 1 tablespoon cold butter (cut into small pieces), and 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top layer of batter for a delightful crumbly crust.
• Cream Cheese Glaze: A tangy-sweet cream cheese glaze can add an extra touch of decadence. Whisk together 2 oz softened cream cheese, 1/2 cup powdered sugar, and 1-2 teaspoons of milk or vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled loaf.
• Chocolate Chips: For those who love a chocolatey twist, a handful of mini chocolate chips (about 1/4 to 1/2 cup) can be gently folded into the batter with the apples. Chocolate and caramel are a classic pairing!

Storing Your Loaf for Lasting Freshness

To ensure your delicious caramel apple loaf remains fresh and enjoyable for as long as possible, proper storage is key. Following these guidelines will help maintain its moist texture and rich flavor.

Short-Term Storage (Room Temperature)

Once your loaf has completely cooled to room temperature, store it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. It will stay fresh and moist at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. Placing a paper towel at the bottom of the container can absorb any excess moisture and prevent sogginess.

Refrigeration for Extended Freshness

If you live in a particularly warm or humid climate, or if you wish to extend the loaf’s freshness for a few extra days, you can refrigerate it. Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. For the best flavor and texture, allow it to come to room temperature or gently warm it in the microwave or oven before serving.

Freezing for Later Enjoyment

This caramel apple loaf freezes beautifully, making it an excellent option for meal prep or for saving a portion for a later date. Once the loaf is completely cooled, you can wrap individual slices or the entire loaf tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months without compromising flavor or texture. To enjoy, simply thaw the loaf or slices at room temperature, or gently reheat in the microwave or oven for a warm treat.

Nutritional Insight: Enjoy a Smarter Treat

The nutritional information provided (excluding the additional natural sugars and fibers from the apples themselves) for this Caramel Apple Loaf highlights its suitability as a balanced indulgence. With an estimated 5 SmartPoints or 3 PersonalPoints per slice (based on 10 servings), it fits well into various mindful eating plans. Each slice offers approximately 124 calories, with only 0.8g of fat (0.2g saturated fat), 26g of carbohydrates, a beneficial 1.1g of fiber, 8.5g of sugars, and a decent 3.2g of protein. This composition makes it a fulfilling choice that provides sustained energy, satiety, and a delightful sweet experience without being overly heavy. The abundant apple chunks naturally boost the fiber and vitamin content, making it a truly wholesome and satisfying treat.

Embark on Your Baking Journey

There’s an undeniable joy and comfort that comes from baking a homemade loaf. The entire process, from carefully measuring out each ingredient to watching the batter transform into a golden, aromatic masterpiece in the oven, is a truly rewarding experience. This Caramel Apple Loaf is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to infuse your home with warmth, incredible flavors, and create delicious memories that will be cherished. It’s a versatile bake that’s perfect for sharing with loved ones, bringing to a potluck, or simply enjoying by yourself with a cup of tea on a quiet afternoon.

So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and prepare to fill your home with the most incredible, inviting aromas. You are just a few simple steps away from enjoying a slice of pure, autumnal bliss. We are confident that this delightful Caramel Apple Loaf will quickly become a cherished and frequently requested recipe in your baking repertoire. Happy baking!