Delicious Maple Bacon Quick Bread Recipe

Experience the taste of autumn with this Maple Bacon Quick Bread featuring Maine Maple Hard Apple Cider and a delightful topping of homemade candied bacon. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet treat, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends!

Ingredients

For the Maple Bacon Quick Bread, gather the following ingredients:

• Dry Ingredients:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda

• Wet Ingredients:

  • 1 cup hard apple cider
  • 1/2 cup maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 large eggs

• Candied Bacon:

  • 8 slices bacon
  • 1 cup brown sugar (or honey)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Candied Bacon

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Line a sheet pan with aluminum foil and place cookie racks on top.
3. Lay the bacon strips loosely on the racks, ensuring space between each piece.
4. Generously sprinkle brown sugar or honey over the bacon, pressing it gently to adhere.
5. Bake for 20 minutes until crispy. Remove and let cool.

Step 2: Mix the Quick Bread Batter

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and baking soda.
2. Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk the eggs, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until well blended.
3. Gradually pour the hard apple cider into the egg mixture, gently mixing to maintain carbonation.
4. Combine Both Mixtures: Add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix. The batter should resemble pancake batter.
5. Add Bacon: If you wish, fold in a portion of the candied bacon.

Step 3: Bake the Bread

1. Grease a cast iron loaf pan and pour the batter into it.
2. Top with remaining chopped candied bacon for added texture.
3. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 4: Cool and Serve

1. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 30 minutes.
2. For a special touch, mix room temperature butter with a tablespoon of real maple syrup and spread it on slices of warm bread.

Storing Maple Bacon Quick Bread

If you manage to have leftovers, wrap the bread in plastic wrap and store it at room temperature or in the refrigerator. It’s best consumed within four days for optimal flavor.

Quick Tips for Perfect Quick Bread

• Mix Separately: Combine dry ingredients in one bowl and wet ingredients in another for an even batter.
• Avoid Overmixing: Stir until just combined to keep your bread fluffy and moist.
• Enhance with Flavor: Consider making a flavored butter with maple syrup to complement the bread’s flavors.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your homemade Maple Bacon Quick Bread—a sweet treat that’s perfect for cozy gatherings or a delightful breakfast!