Cozy Autumn Delight: Grain-Free Apple Cinnamon Loaf to Warm Your Soul

Embrace the essence of fall with every bite of this grain-free apple cinnamon loaf, a perfect harmony of spice, sweetness, and the comforting warmth of golden-brown hues. Imagine the joy of savoring this loaf alongside a hot cup of tea, enveloped in the crisp autumn air. This recipe not only brings the delightful flavors of the season into your kitchen but does so in a healthful way, catering to those on a grain-free diet without sacrificing taste or texture.

Why This Loaf Captures the Heart of Autumn

• Seasonal Spice: With the right balance of cinnamon, this loaf brings the quintessential autumn spice to your palate.
• Grain-Free Goodness: Utilizing almond, tapioca, and coconut flours, this loaf is a testament to how delicious grain-free baking can be.
• Apple Abundance: The incorporation of grated apple and an optional apple topping celebrates the seasonal harvest in every slice.

The Perfect Occasion for Baking This Loaf

This apple cinnamon loaf is your go-to for chilly autumn mornings, cozy afternoons, or as a comforting end to a brisk day. It’s splendid for gatherings, where its inviting aroma and taste can bring warmth and joy. It’s also the perfect companion to a quiet, reflective moment alone, paired with your favorite tea or coffee.

Tips for a Beautifully Presented Loaf

• Apple Artistry: Arrange thin apple wedges on top in a decorative pattern before baking for a visually stunning loaf.
• Almond Accents: Sprinkle sliced almonds over the top for added texture and a nutty flavor that complements the apple and cinnamon perfectly.
• Sweet Glaze: A light drizzle of olive oil or maple syrup not only enhances the flavor but also gives the loaf a beautifully glazed finish.

Ingredients:

• 210g (1 + 3/4 cup) blanched almond flour
• 42g (1/3 cup) tapioca or arrowroot flour
• 2 Tbsp (14g) coconut flour
• 1 1/2 tsp gluten-free baking powder
• 1/3 tsp fine salt
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 3 large eggs, room temperature, lightly whisked
• 180g (1 1/2 cups) grated apple, packed
• 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
• 1/2 cup (125g) salted butter, grass-fed preferred
• 3/4 cup (125g) coconut sugar

Optional Topping:

• 1 apple, sliced into thin wedges
• A handful of sliced almonds
• Olive oil or maple syrup for drizzling

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F). Prepare a standard loaf tin by lining it with baking paper.
2. Gently melt the butter in a saucepan over low heat, then set aside to cool for 5 minutes.
3. Sift the almond meal, arrowroot or tapioca flour, coconut flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon into a large mixing bowl. Mix until well combined.
4. In another bowl, combine the eggs, grated apple, vanilla (if using), cooled melted butter, and coconut sugar. Mix thoroughly.
5. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry, folding gently to combine until no dry spots remain. The batter will be thick; transfer it to the prepared tin, smoothing the top with a spoon.
6. If using, arrange the apple slices and sprinkle the sliced almonds on top. Drizzle with olive oil or maple syrup.
7. Bake for 70 to 75 minutes, or until a skewer inserted comes out clean. Allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

This loaf stores well in the pantry for up to 3 days or in the fridge for longer freshness. For freezing, it’s best without the apple topping for optimal texture upon thawing.

Embrace the taste of autumn with this grain-free apple cinnamon loaf, a recipe that promises comfort, flavor, and a touch of seasonal magic in every slice. Enjoy!