Imagine the warm, inviting aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your kitchen, mingling with the sweet scent of apples and a hint of cinnamon. This Oat Bran and Fresh Apple Bread is not just a treat for the senses; it’s a wholesome delight that’s perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even a dessert! Packed with nutritious oat bran and the natural sweetness of fresh apples, this recipe is as healthy as it is delicious. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, you’ll love how easy it is to create this mouthwatering loaf. Get ready to impress your family and friends with a homemade bread that’s sure to become a favorite!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 50 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 5 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 1 loaf
Ingredients
- 1 cup oat bran
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup chopped fresh apples
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 packet active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- In a small bowl, activate the yeast by dissolving it in warm milk (around 110°F) and let it sit for 5-7 minutes until it becomes foamy and fragrant.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, oat bran, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Mix these dry ingredients thoroughly to ensure even distribution.
- Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the activated yeast mixture, vegetable oil, and additional milk. Stir until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms.
- Gently fold in the chopped fresh apples, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough without breaking them down too much.
- Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. The dough should spring back when lightly pressed.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the risen dough and shape it into a loaf. Transfer to a greased 9x5 inch loaf pan.
- Cover the loaf and let it rise again for 30-45 minutes until it has risen just above the pan's edges.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) during the second rise.
- Bake the bread for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
- Remove from oven and let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Tips
- Activate the Yeast Properly: Ensure your milk is warm (around 110°F) but not too hot, as high temperatures can kill the yeast. Look for a foamy texture after letting it sit; this means your yeast is active and ready to go!
- Knead with Care: Kneading the dough for 8-10 minutes is essential for developing gluten, which gives the bread its structure. If the dough feels too sticky, sprinkle a little extra flour, but be careful not to add too much.
- Warm Rising Environment: For the best rise, place your dough in a warm, draft-free area. You can create a cozy environment by turning on your oven for a minute, then turning it off and placing the dough inside to rise.
- Check for Doneness: To ensure your bread is perfectly baked, tap the top of the loaf; if it sounds hollow, it's ready! If you’re unsure, use a thermometer; the internal temperature should reach around 190°F.
- Cool Completely Before Slicing: Allow your bread to cool on a wire rack before slicing. This helps maintain its texture and prevents it from becoming gummy.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 2mg
