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–+ servings
Apple-Orange Nut Bread
Apple-Orange Nut Bread is a moist, fruit-filled quick bread that combines the natural sweetness of applesauce with the tang of fresh orange juice and zest. Raisins add bursts of chewy sweetness, while chopped nuts lend a satisfying crunch. This bread is perfect for cozy breakfasts, teatime, or holiday gatherings, carrying the nostalgic flavor of old-fashioned American baking. Its citrusy brightness and spiced fruit notes make it equally appealing as a comfort food treat and a festive loaf to share with family or friends.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Cooling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 10 minutes
Course Baked Goods
Cuisine American
Servings 10
Calories 245 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 orange (large, juice and grated peel)
  • ½ cup raisins
  • 2 cups applesauce
  • 2 cups flour (sifted )
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1 cup sugar
  • ¾ tsp salt
  • ¾ cup nuts (chopped, walnuts or pecans suggested)
  • 1 egg
  • 3 tbsp shortening (melted, or butter/oil)

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare Orange

  • Squeeze juice from the orange and grate the peel. Combine with raisins.

Step 2: Mix Applesauce Base

  • Add applesauce to the orange-raisin mixture.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

  • Sift together flour, baking powder, baking soda, sugar, and salt.

Step 4: Mix Wet and Dry

  • Add the applesauce mixture and chopped nuts to the dry ingredients. Mix thoroughly.

Step 5: Add Egg and Fat

  • Beat egg separately, then stir into batter along with melted shortening. Mix until well blended.

Step 6: Bake

  • Pour batter into a greased loaf pan (8½ x 4½ x 2½ inches). Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 70–80 minutes.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

  • Remove from pan and cool on a wire rack. Bread slices better if allowed to stand 12 hours.

Tips

  • Let the loaf rest 12 hours as the card suggests for the cleanest slices.
  • Substitute pecans for walnuts for a milder flavor.
  • Use unsweetened applesauce to avoid overly sweet bread.
  • Add 1 teaspoon vanilla for extra warmth.
  • Fold in ¼–½ teaspoon cinnamon or nutmeg for a spiced version.
  • Lightly dust raisins with flour to help keep them evenly distributed.
  • Line pan with parchment for easier release.
  • Can be wrapped well and frozen up to 2 to 3 months.
  • Toast slices and spread with butter or cream cheese for serving.
  • Replace margarine with melted butter if preferred.

Nutrition

Calories: 245kcalCarbohydrates: 36gProtein: 4gFat: 8.4gSaturated Fat: 1.2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4.6gMonounsaturated Fat: 2.1gTrans Fat: 0.2gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 180mgPotassium: 180mgFiber: 2gSugar: 20gVitamin A: 50IUVitamin C: 8mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 1.5mg
Keyword apple bread, Baking, comfort food, homemade, nuts, orange, quick bread, vintage recipe
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