Yeast Breads: Golden Apricot Bread

Sweet breads are perfect for jams and jellies. They are especially popular for making the classic peanut butter and jam sandwich. This bread gets its flavor from apricot nectar and yogurt. Apricot nectar can be found at most large grocery stores. If you can't find it, consider ordering it online. It's worth the extra hassle.


Ingredients


1¼ tsp bread machine or quick rise yeast
3 cups all purpose flour
½ tsp salt
½ cup apricot nectar
½ cup plain yogurt
2 tbsp honey
2 tbsp butter or margarine
1 egg
¾ cup carrots, chopped (optional)


Preparation


There's no need to dissolve the yeast, so throw everything in a large bowl and mix until all ingredients are fully combined. Turn out onto a floured surface and knead for 5 to 10 minutes, until you have a smooth ball of dough that is slightly stretchy. Place dough in a slightly oiled bowl and cover lightly. Let rise in a warm location until doubled in size, about 1 hour.


Spray a bread pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Punch down the dough, removing all air to prevent stray air bubbles. Shape the dough into a smooth loaf and set it in the loaf pan. Cover loosely and set in a warm place to rise. Allow loaf to double in shape, which will take about 45 minutes.


Heat oven to 375°F. Uncover dough and bake for 22 minutes, until loaf is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped. Cool 10 minutes in loaf pan, then cool completely on a wire rack. Serve with jams and other spreads.