Cinnamon Apple Bread Recipe
If you’re craving a warm, cozy treat that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas, this Cinnamon Apple Bread Recipe is exactly what you need. This bread combines tender, moist cake-like texture with juicy apple pieces and a fragrant cinnamon swirl, creating the perfect comfort food. Whether you’re starting your day or winding down with a cup of tea, each bite delivers a satisfying balance of sweet spices and fresh apple flavor that feels like a delicious hug. It’s a simple, homemade gem that everyone will ask you to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Cinnamon Apple Bread Recipe lies in its simple, quality ingredients. Each one plays a specific role, from the fluffy structure brought by the flour and baking soda to the sweet, buttery flavor enhanced by brown and granulated sugars. The apples add moisture and freshness while the cinnamon and vanilla infuse warmth and depth. Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this loaf to life:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of your bread, providing structure and a tender crumb.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps your bread rise beautifully and stay light.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavors mysteriously.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: The star spice adds warmth and inviting aroma.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Creates richness and moistness in the bread.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with browning.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed: Contributes a deep, caramel-like flavor.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients together and provide structure.
- 1/4 cup milk: Keeps the bread tender and adds moisture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a subtle, sweet fragrance that complements the cinnamon.
- 2 cups apples, peeled and chopped: Juicy chunks that provide bursts of fresh flavor and moisture.
- 1/4 cup cinnamon sugar (2 tablespoons sugar + 2 teaspoons cinnamon): Creates a tantalizing cinnamon swirl and crunchy topping.
How to Make Cinnamon Apple Bread Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your oven is ready for baking the moment your batter is combined. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan thoroughly to guarantee your lovely apple bread releases easily after baking.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. This step is important as it evenly distributes the raising agent and spices throughout the flour, which leads to a perfectly baked and flavorful bread.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
Using a large bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter together with both granulated and brown sugars until the mixture is light and fluffy. This aeration step is the key to that tender crumb and slightly caramelized flavor of the finished bread.
Step 4: Incorporate Wet Ingredients
Add the eggs one at a time to your creamed mixture, beating well after each addition to ensure they’re fully incorporated. Next, stir in the milk and vanilla extract for added moisture and fragrant flavor.
Step 5: Combine and Fold
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender. Finally, gently fold in the chopped apples, being careful not to break them down — those juicy chunks are what make this bread extra special.
Step 6: Layer and Bake
Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar evenly over the batter, then add the remaining batter on top followed by the rest of the cinnamon sugar. This layering technique creates that signature cinnamon swirl and crunchy topping that makes this bread unforgettable.
Step 7: Bake and Cool
Bake your Cinnamon Apple Bread Recipe for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once baked, allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps the bread set perfectly without drying out.
How to Serve Cinnamon Apple Bread Recipe
Garnishes
A dusting of powdered sugar over the top adds a lovely snowy touch, while a drizzle of honey or warm maple syrup brings extra sweetness and shine. For an indulgent twist, serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a smear of softened butter. Cozy, delicious, and simple!
Side Dishes
This bread pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea to round out your breakfast or snack time. If you want a heartier meal, pairing with a fresh fruit salad or yogurt can balance the richness while keeping the meal light and refreshing.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice your Cinnamon Apple Bread Recipe thickly, toast it lightly, and then top with cream cheese and a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar for an elegant brunch option. You can also cut into cubes and toast for a crunchy bread pudding or make delightful mini sandwiches with cream cheese and apple butter. The possibilities are endless and just waiting for your personal touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap your leftover Cinnamon Apple Bread in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container, then keep it at room temperature for up to three days to retain freshness. After that, it might start to dry out, so quick consumption is best!
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, freeze your cooled loaf wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. It can keep in the freezer for up to three months without losing flavor or texture. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To bring back that freshly baked feeling, you can warm slices of bread in a toaster oven or regular oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 10 minutes. For a quicker option, microwave a slice wrapped in a damp paper towel for 20 to 30 seconds — soft, warm bread is just moments away.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of apple for this recipe?
Absolutely! Tart apples like Granny Smith hold their shape well and provide a beautiful tangy contrast, while sweeter apples such as Fuji or Honeycrisp will make the bread more mellow and sweet. Feel free to experiment based on your taste preference or what you have on hand.
Is it possible to make this Cinnamon Apple Bread Recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking mix designed for one-to-one replacement. However, ensure the mix contains xanthan gum or a similar binder for good texture. Baking times might vary slightly, so keep an eye on your loaf as it bakes.
Can I add nuts or raisins?
Definitely! Adding 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts, pecans, or raisins can bring extra texture and flavor to this recipe. Toss them in along with the apples during the folding step, and your bread will have a delightful crunch or chewiness with every bite.
How can I tell when my bread is done?
The best way is to insert a toothpick or a thin skewer into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs clinging, your bread is perfectly baked. If it has wet batter, bake for an additional 5 to 10 minutes and check again.
Can I double this recipe for two loaves?
You can easily double all the ingredients and bake the batter in two greased loaf pans. Keep in mind oven placement can affect baking times slightly, so check each loaf with a toothpick starting at about 50 minutes and adjust as needed.
Final Thoughts
There’s something deeply satisfying about baking your own Cinnamon Apple Bread Recipe from scratch—it’s a comforting experience paired with a delicious result. The beautiful blend of cinnamon, apples, and sweet batter creates a loaf that’s perfect anytime you want a little homemade joy. Give this recipe a try, share slices with loved ones, and enjoy every warm, fragrant bite!
Print
Cinnamon Apple Bread Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
This Cinnamon Apple Bread is a moist and flavorful quick bread perfect for breakfast or as a sweet snack. Infused with warm spices and chunks of fresh apple, it features a delightful cinnamon sugar swirl that creates a sweet, aromatic crust. Easy to make and irresistibly delicious, this bread combines the comforting flavors of cinnamon and apples in every bite.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Additional Ingredients
- 2 cups apples, peeled and chopped
- 1/4 cup cinnamon sugar (2 tablespoons sugar + 2 teaspoons cinnamon)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan to prevent sticking and set aside.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon until well combined, ensuring an even distribution of the leavening agents and spices.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter with the granulated sugar and packed brown sugar until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and creamy, which helps create a tender crumb.
- Incorporate Wet Ingredients: Add the eggs one at a time to the butter and sugar mixture, beating well after each addition to fully incorporate them. Then stir in the milk and vanilla extract to add moisture and enhance flavor.
- Combine and Fold: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined without overmixing. Carefully fold in the peeled and chopped apples to distribute them evenly throughout the batter.
- Layer and Bake: Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the batter. Add the remaining batter on top and finish by sprinkling the remaining cinnamon sugar over the surface to create a cinnamon swirl effect in the bread.
- Bake and Cool: Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the bread comes out clean, indicating it is fully cooked. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- Use tart apples such as Granny Smith for the best flavor and texture.
- Ensure butter is softened but not melted for proper creaming with sugars.
- Check the bread at 50 minutes and cover loosely with foil if the top browns too quickly.
- Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
- For extra moisture, add a half cup of chopped nuts or raisins if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
