Cinnamon Apple Bread

If you’re looking for a cozy baking project that fills your home with the warm scent of cinnamon and apples, then this Cinnamon Apple Bread is just what you need! This recipe has been a cherished favorite in my family for years. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something comforting after a long day or for special gatherings where everyone can enjoy a slice (or two!). The tender loaf, swirled with brown sugar and fresh apples, is simply irresistible.

The best part? You can whip it up with simple ingredients that you probably already have at home. So grab your apron and let’s get started on making this delightful treat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe comes together quickly, making it a great option for both novice and experienced bakers.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids love the sweet apple and cinnamon flavor, making it perfect for breakfast or dessert.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can bake this bread ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week—if it lasts that long!
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of warm spices and fresh apples creates a comforting taste that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Cinnamon Apple Bread uses simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. No fancy items here—just good old-fashioned baking staples!

For the Bread

• 1-1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1-1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (1 stick)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup milk

For the Filling

• 1/2 cup light brown sugar (packed)
• 1-1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1 large apple (peeled, cored, and chopped into small pieces)
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

For the Glaze

• 3/4 cups confectioners’ sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons water

Variations

One of the best things about this Cinnamon Apple Bread is its flexibility! Feel free to experiment with different flavors and add-ins to make it your own.

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
• Mix in Other Fruits: Try swapping apples for pears or adding raisins for an extra fruity surprise.
• Change the Spices: Experiment with nutmeg or allspice to give it a unique twist.
• Make It Vegan: Use plant-based butter and substitute eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce.

How to Make Cinnamon Apple Bread

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Greasing and flouring an 8.5 x 4.5 inch loaf pan will ensure your bread slides out easily once it’s baked.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This step is crucial as it helps evenly distribute the leavening agents throughout the flour.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and vanilla on medium-high speed until smooth and pale—about 3-4 minutes. This process incorporates air into the mixture, giving your bread a lovely rise.

Step 4: Add Eggs

Beat in the eggs one at a time until fully incorporated. Each egg adds richness to the batter, ensuring that your bread comes out moist.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

With the mixer on low speed, alternate adding half of your flour mixture followed by half of the milk. Repeat until everything is combined. This method helps prevent lumps from forming in your batter.

Step 6: Prepare Apple Mixture

In a separate bowl, combine chopped apples with brown sugar and ground cinnamon. This fruity filling adds sweetness and depth to each slice of bread!

Step 7: Create Topping Mixture

In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar and cinnamon for your topping. This will create that delightful crunchy layer on top of your bread after baking.

Step 8: Assemble the Bread

Pour half of your batter into the prepared loaf pan. Top it with half of the apple mixture—then gently swirl through with a knife or skewer without overdoing it; you want those pretty layers to show!

Step 9: Finish Layering

Pour in the remaining batter followed by the rest of the apple mixture on top. Swirl again lightly before sprinkling your topping mixture over everything—it’s going to look heavenly!

Step 10: Bake to Perfection

Bake for about 45 to 55 minutes until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean (a few moist crumbs are okay). The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be pure bliss!

Step 11: Cool Down

Let your bread cool in the pan for about 15-20 minutes before transferring it onto a cooling rack. While waiting, whisk together glaze ingredients—then drizzle it over once cooled completely!

Enjoy every delicious slice of this Cinnamon Apple Bread—it’s sure to become a favorite in no time!

Pro Tips for Making Cinnamon Apple Bread

Baking can be a delightful experience, and with these pro tips, you’ll ensure your Cinnamon Apple Bread turns out perfectly every time!

• Use fresh apples: Fresh, crisp apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp not only add flavor but also maintain their texture during baking, giving your bread that wonderful fruitiness.

• Avoid over-mixing: Once you add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mix just until combined. Over-mixing can lead to a dense loaf instead of the light and tender bread we want.

• Check for doneness: Ovens can vary in temperature. Start checking your bread at the 45-minute mark by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.

• Cool before slicing: Allowing your bread to cool completely on a wire rack prevents it from becoming gummy and helps it slice beautifully.

• Experiment with spices: If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding nutmeg or allspice to the batter for an extra layer of flavor that complements the cinnamon wonderfully.

How to Serve Cinnamon Apple Bread

This delightful Cinnamon Apple Bread can be enjoyed in various ways, whether as a sweet breakfast treat or a comforting dessert. Let’s explore some creative serving ideas!

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans on top for added crunch and richness.
• Whipped cream: A dollop of dairy-free whipped cream adds a lovely creaminess that pairs beautifully with the warm spices.
• Cinnamon sugar dusting: A light dusting of cinnamon sugar right before serving enhances both the visual appeal and the flavor.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad adds brightness and balances the sweetness of the bread. Try including citrus fruits for a zesty twist.
• Yogurt parfait: Layer dairy-free yogurt with granola and fresh fruit for a delicious contrast to the warm bread.
• Green tea: A warm cup of green tea complements the spices in the bread while providing a soothing contrast to its sweetness.
• Maple syrup drizzle: For those who enjoy extra sweetness, serve this bread with a side of maple syrup for drizzling over each slice.

Enjoy your baking adventure with this Cinnamon Apple Bread recipe! It’s sure to be a hit at any gathering or simply as an indulgent treat for yourself. Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cinnamon Apple Bread is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious treat throughout the week. You can bake it ahead of time and store or freeze it for later, making mornings more manageable and indulgent.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the bread to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, place it in an airtight container.

Freezing

• Once cooled, slice the bread if desired.
• Wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap.
• Place the wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature for a few hours.
• For individual slices, microwave on low power for about 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Alternatively, reheat in a toaster oven at 300 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions readers may have about this delightful recipe.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for the Cinnamon Apple Bread?

Yes! You can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour; just note that the texture might be denser. It’s best to use half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour for optimal results.

What makes this Cinnamon Apple Bread so special?

The combination of tender apples and a swirl of cinnamon sugar throughout makes this bread truly special. The delicious glaze on top adds a sweet finishing touch that enhances the flavor profile beautifully.

Can I add nuts to my Cinnamon Apple Bread?

Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans can be added to the apple mixture or sprinkled on top for extra crunch and flavor. Just remember to adjust your baking time slightly if you add too many toppings.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Cinnamon Apple Bread as much as I do! Its comforting aroma fills the kitchen with warmth and nostalgia, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy a slice with coffee in the morning or as an afternoon snack, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Happy baking!