INSTRUCTIONS:
Prepare the Bread Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, dissolve the active dry yeast and granulated sugar in warm water. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- Add the melted butter, salt, and optional cinnamon to the yeast mixture and stir to combine.
- Gradually add the flour to the wet ingredients, stirring until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Make the Apple Fritters:
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the milk and egg until well combined.
- Gradually add the milk and egg mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until a smooth batter forms.
- Gently fold in the diced apples until they are evenly coated with the batter.
Fry the Fritters:
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or frying pan over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (180°C).
- Using a spoon or cookie scoop, carefully drop spoonfuls of the apple batter into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
- Fry the fritters for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Once cooked, remove the fritters from the oil using a slotted spoon and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Bake the Bread:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Punch down the risen bread dough and shape it into a loaf.
- Place the loaf on a greased baking sheet or in a greased loaf pan.
- Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until it is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Once the bread has cooled slightly, slice it into thick slices.
- Serve the warm Bread with Apple Fritters alongside each slice, allowing the crispy fritters to complement the soft, pillowy texture of the bread.
- Optionally, dust the fritters with powdered sugar before serving for an extra touch of sweetness.
