Sea Buckthorn, Pecan, and Apple Bread

Baking artisanal breads can be an inspiring and meditative process. The rhythmic act of kneading dough, the careful attention to rising times, and the aromas that fill the kitchen as the bread bakes offer a moment of calm and connection to tradition. With ingredients like spelt flour and sea buckthorn berries, this apple bread recipe not only nourishes but also highlights the unique properties of ancient grains and fruits. 

Spelt flour, in particular, is a nod to ancient agricultural practices. As one of the oldest cultivated grains, spelt dates back over 7,000 years and was a staple food in many early civilizations, including Mesopotamia and Europe. It predates modern wheat varieties, which became popular due to their higher yields and easier processing. Unlike modern wheat, spelt features a more delicate gluten structure, making it easier for some people to digest. While it still provides a good source of fibre, protein, and essential nutrients, its flavour truly sets it apart. With its slightly sweet, nutty undertones, spelt adds depth and complexity to breads, pairing exceptionally well with ingredients like dried fruit, nuts, and spices. This quality makes it the perfect base for this artisanal bread recipe featuring sea buckthorn, apple, and pecan.

Sea buckthorn berries are another fascinating ingredient that adds both nutritional and culinary benefits to this ancient grain bread. These small, vibrant orange berries have been used for centuries in various cultures, particularly in Siberia, Northern Europe, and parts of Asia, where they thrive in harsh, coastal climates. Historically, sea buckthorn was revered as a powerful medicinal plant due to its high concentration of vitamins, antioxidants, and essential fatty acids. It’s said that even the ancient Greeks fed sea buckthorn leaves and berries to their horses for a shiny coat, which is how the berry got its scientific name, Hippophae rhamnoides (hippo = horse, phae = shining).

For bakers, sweetened and dried sea buckthorn berries are a hidden gem. Their tartness balances the sweetness of apples and the richness of pecans, creating a perfect harmony of flavours in this apple bread recipe. When dried, the berries lose some of their astringency but retain their bright, tangy character, providing a surprising burst of flavour in every bite. Not only do they enhance the taste of this bread, but they also offer a nutritional boost, packed with vitamin C, vitamin E, and omega-7 fatty acids, which are rare in plant sources. While heating can affect nutrient levels, most vitamin losses are minimal, including vitamin C, meaning sea buckthorn berries still offer considerable health benefits even after baking. This makes sea buckthorn a fantastic addition to a health-conscious baker’s pantry.

The inclusion of apples and pecans in this bread brings another layer of texture and taste. Apples, with their natural sweetness and moisture, help to keep the bread tender while contributing subtle fruity notes that complement the tart sea buckthorn berries. In artisanal baking, it’s not uncommon to find apples paired with grains like spelt, as they both complement each other’s natural flavours, creating a loaf that feels both rustic and refined. Apples are also high in pectin, a soluble fibre that contributes to the overall texture of the bread, ensuring that each slice holds together well while staying soft and moist.

Pecans add a buttery crunch to this bread, offering not only a satisfying texture but also heart-healthy fats. Rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, pecans create a wonderful contrast to the softer elements in the loaf, like the grated apples. The nuts also tie into the artisanal nature of this bread, adding a touch of rustic elegance that elevates it from a simple loaf to something truly special.

In a time where fast food and convenience often dominate, baking your own artisanal bread feels like a return to something more meaningful. It’s about taking the time to honour the ingredients, each of which has a rich history and a unique profile. Spelt flour speaks to the enduring nature of ancient grains, sea buckthorn berries remind us of the nutritional wisdom passed down through generations, and the combination of apples and pecans connects us to the seasonal cycles of nature.

Making this spelt flour sea buckthorn, pecan, and apple bread not just about creating something delicious; it’s about engaging in a process that slows down time and connects you with the roots of artisanal baking. The experience of working with your hands, feeling the dough come together, and watching it rise and transform in the oven is a reminder of the beauty of simplicity. And when you finally slice into the loaf, the combination of flavours—nutty spelt, tangy sea buckthorn, sweet apples, and crunchy pecans—makes all that effort worthwhile. Whether enjoyed fresh with a pat of butter or toasted with a drizzle of honey, this bread is a wholesome, nourishing way to start the day.