When I want something quicker than a traditional yeast bread, that's where this Apple, Rosemary & Buttermilk Quick Bread comes in.
This bread combines the sweetness of apples, the aromatic touch of rosemary, and the tangy flavor of buttermilk.
It's a unique mix that creates a bread that's both savory and sweet.
And the best part?
It's ready in about an hour.
Quick breads are called "quick" because they use baking powder or baking soda instead of yeast for leavening. This means no waiting for dough to rise. You just mix, pour, and bake.
The apples in this bread add moisture and natural sweetness. I like to use tart apples like Granny Smith, but feel free to use your favorite variety.
The rosemary might seem unusual in a sweet bread, but trust me, it works. It adds a subtle, herbal note that complements the apples beautifully.
Buttermilk is the secret ingredient here. It reacts with the baking soda to help the bread rise and gives it a tender crumb. It also adds a slight tanginess that balances the sweetness of the apples.
This bread is perfect for breakfast, as a snack, or even as a side dish with dinner. It's versatile, delicious, and sure to become a favorite in your home just like it has in mine.
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Why You'll Love this Apple, Rosemary & Buttermilk Quick Bread
You'll fall in love with this bread for its unique flavor combination. The sweetness of apples, the earthiness of rosemary, and the tang of buttermilk create a taste that's both familiar and exciting.
This recipe is a time-saver. You can have fresh, homemade bread on the table in about an hour. It's perfect for those days when you want something homemade but don't have hours to spend in the kitchen.
The texture of this bread is another winner. It's moist and tender, with chunks of apple throughout. The crust gets a nice golden color and slight crunch, adding another layer of texture.
Tips
Don't overmix the batter. Stir just until the ingredients are combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough bread.
Chop the apples into small, uniform pieces. This ensures they'll cook evenly and distribute well throughout the bread.
If the top of the bread is browning too quickly, cover it loosely with foil for the last part of baking. This prevents over-browning while allowing the inside to finish cooking.
The Ingredients
Apples
Apples add natural sweetness and moisture to the bread. They also provide a nice texture contrast. Choose a firm apple that won't turn to mush when baked.
Rosemary
Fresh rosemary adds a unique, aromatic flavor. It might seem odd in a sweet bread, but it pairs wonderfully with the apples. If you only have dried rosemary, use ⅓ the amount called for in fresh.
Buttermilk
Buttermilk is key in this recipe. It reacts with the baking soda to help the bread rise and gives it a tender texture. It also adds a subtle tangy flavor that balances the sweetness.
Flour
All-purpose flour forms the base of our bread. It provides structure and helps bind all the ingredients together.
How to Make Apple, Rosemary & Buttermilk Quick Bread
Prepare the Pan and Oven
Preheat your oven and grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar.
Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, mix buttermilk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and stir until just combined. Fold in chopped apples and rosemary.
Bake the Bread
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
What to Serve With Apple, Rosemary & Buttermilk Quick Bread
- Butter or cream cheese
- A slice of sharp cheddar cheese
- A cup of tea or coffee
- As a side with a bowl of soup
Substitutions
No buttermilk? Mix regular milk with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar.
You can use pears instead of apples for a different flavor.
For a gluten-free version, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Equipment
- 9x5 inch loaf pan
- Two mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
FAQs
Can I make this bread ahead of time?
Yes, you can make it a day in advance. Store it wrapped tightly at room temperature.
How long does this bread last?
It stays fresh for about 3-4 days at room temperature, or up to a week in the refrigerator.
Can I freeze this bread?
Yes, wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
📖 Recipe
Apple, Rosemary & Buttermilk Quick Bread
Equipment
- 9x5 inch loaf pan
- Two mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup sugar
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups chopped apples
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary finely chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, mix flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar.
- In another bowl, whisk buttermilk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla.
- Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients. Stir until just combined.
- Fold in chopped apples and rosemary.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan. Bake for 50-60 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool in pan for 10 minutes, then remove and cool completely on a wire rack.
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