Apple, cheddar, and caramel meet in a golden loaf; perfect for breakfast or a luscious afternoon treat.
# Components:
→ Fruits
01 - 2 medium tart apples, peeled, cored, and diced
→ Dairy
02 - 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
03 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
04 - 2 large eggs
05 - 1/4 cup whole milk
→ Dry Ingredients
06 - 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
07 - 1/2 cup granulated sugar
08 - 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
09 - 1 teaspoon baking powder
10 - 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
11 - 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
12 - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
→ Topping
13 - 1/2 cup thick caramel sauce
14 - 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts, optional
# Directions:
01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease and line a 9x5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
02 - Using a mixer or whisk, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy.
03 - Add eggs one at a time to the creamed mixture, then blend in milk until smooth.
04 - In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
05 - Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
06 - Gently fold in diced apples and shredded cheddar cheese.
07 - Spread the batter evenly into the prepared loaf pan.
08 - Drizzle half of the caramel sauce over the top and swirl gently with a knife.
09 - Place the pan in the oven and bake for 45 to 55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
10 - Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Drizzle with remaining caramel sauce and sprinkle with nuts if desired. Cool completely before slicing.
