2 1/2 c. flour
3/4 c. sugar
1/2 tsp. salt
2 tsp. cinnamon
1/2 tsp. nutmeg
2 tsp. baking powder
2 lg. eggs
1 stick butter, melted
1 c. milk
2 c. shredded cheddar cheese
1 c. Ricotta cheese
2 1/2 c. peeled and diced McIntosh apples
3/4 c. chopped walnuts; optional
1/2 c. raisins; optional
3 tbsp. grated orange or lemon peel; optional

In large bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and baking powder. In medium bowl, mix egg, butter, milk, vanilla, and shredded cheddar cheese; stir into flour mixture.

Fold in Ricotta cheese and apples, plus walnuts, raisin and grated orange or lemon peel if desired; batter will be thick.

Spoon into well greased and floured 9 x 5 inch loaf pan. Bake in 350 degree over 65-75 minutes, or until wooden toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool for 30 minutes; remove from pan.

Garnish with glazed walnuts or candied or dried fruits, if desired. Makes one 9 x 5 inch loaf or two smaller leaves. Can also be used for mini loaves or muffins.