Apple Bread Recipe
If you have a soft spot for cozy, sweet treats that instantly bring warmth and happiness, this Apple Bread is exactly what your kitchen has been waiting for. Combining tender chunks of crisp apples with a fragrant swirl of cinnamon and brown sugar, this loaf offers an irresistible texture and flavor that makes every bite a delightful experience. Whether for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or dessert, this Apple Bread brings a touch of homemade magic to your table that you’ll want to share with everyone you know.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, wholesome ingredients come together beautifully to create this comforting Apple Bread. Each item plays a crucial role, whether it’s the tender apples adding moisture and freshness, the spices creating warmth, or the baking powder and soda giving the perfect rise.
- Brown sugar: Adds a rich, caramel sweetness that perfectly complements the apples and cinnamon.
- Ground cinnamon: Brings an inviting warmth and classic fall aroma that infuses the bread.
- Eggs: Provide structure and richness, helping the bread maintain a tender crumb.
- Granulated sugar: Balances sweetness and lightens the texture slightly.
- Butter (melted): Gives the loaf moisture and richness, keeping it soft and flavorful.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a sweet, floral hint.
- All-purpose flour: The base of the bread, creating the perfect sturdy yet soft structure.
- Baking powder and baking soda: Ensure the bread rises evenly and stays fluffy.
- Salt: Balances the sweetness and rounds out the flavors.
- Chopped apples: The star ingredient, adding juicy bursts of fresh fruit that keep every bite exciting.
How to Make Apple Bread
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. To avoid any sticking, grease and flour an 8 x 5 inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper. This little prep sets you up for an easy, successful bake and a loaf that comes out perfectly every time.
Step 2: Mix the Cinnamon Sugar
In a small bowl, whisk the brown sugar and cinnamon together until well combined. This mixture will add a beautiful swirl of sweetness and spice that takes the Apple Bread from good to unforgettable.
Step 3: Combine Eggs and Sugar
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and granulated sugar until completely blended and slightly frothy. This step ensures a light texture and helps the bread achieve just the right balance of sweetness.
Step 4: Add Butter and Vanilla
Stir the melted butter and vanilla extract into the egg mixture until smooth. The butter adds richness, while the vanilla rounds out the flavors with a subtle, sweet aroma.
Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Mix in the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt just until combined. Be careful not to over-mix; you want the batter thick but tender, setting the stage for that delightful crumb.
Step 6: Fold in the Apples
Gently fold the chopped apples into the batter. These juicy pieces are what give the Apple Bread its signature moistness and fresh bursts of flavor with every bite.
Step 7: Layer Batter and Cinnamon Sugar
Pour half of the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle about three-quarters of the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over this layer. Then add the remaining batter on top, spreading gently to cover the sugar. Finally, sprinkle the remaining cinnamon sugar over the top and use a knife or spoon to gently swirl it through the batter. This layering technique creates beautiful texture and flavor pockets throughout the loaf.
Step 8: Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake the loaf for 35 to 45 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. If you notice the bread browning too quickly, tent it loosely with foil during the last 10 to 15 minutes to prevent burning while allowing the interior to finish baking.
Step 9: Cool and Slice
Let your Apple Bread cool completely in the pan before slicing. This resting time allows the flavors to meld perfectly and ensures clean, neat slices that hold their shape beautifully.
How to Serve Apple Bread
Garnishes
Top your Apple Bread slices with a dollop of whipped cream or a light spread of cream cheese for extra indulgence. A sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey also adds beautiful presentation and layered sweetness without overwhelming the apple-cinnamon flavors.
Side Dishes
This Apple Bread pairs wonderfully with warm beverages like cinnamon-spiced tea or freshly brewed coffee. For a heartier breakfast, serve it alongside crispy bacon or a creamy yogurt parfait with granola to balance flavors and textures delightfully.
Creative Ways to Present
Transform your loaf into an eye-catching gift by wrapping slices individually in parchment tied with twine and a cinnamon stick. Or serve warm slices alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a comforting dessert that your friends and family won’t stop talking about.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover Apple Bread fresh by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or storing it in an airtight container at room temperature. It stays moist and delicious for up to three days, making it perfect for quick breakfasts or snacks.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy Apple Bread later, slice it first and freeze the individual pieces in a sealed freezer bag. Frozen slices can last up to three months and thaw quickly at room temperature or in the microwave.
Reheating
To bring back that freshly baked warmth, gently reheat slices in the microwave for 20 to 30 seconds or toast them lightly. The cinnamon sugar swirl caramelizes again just enough to make each bite feel freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I use different types of apples for Apple Bread?
Absolutely! While Pink Lady, Gala, or Honeycrisp apples work beautifully, you can use any crisp apple variety you love. Just remember to peel and chop them to keep the texture balanced and prevent excess moisture.
Is it necessary to peel the apples for this recipe?
Peeling the apples is recommended to avoid any tough skin texture in the bread, but if you prefer the extra fiber and a bit of chew, you can leave the skins on for a heartier loaf.
How can I make my Apple Bread more moist?
Make sure to use juicy apples and avoid over-baking. Adding a bit more melted butter or an extra egg can also increase moisture. Folding the apples gently into the batter helps retain their juices and prevent dryness.
Can I substitute the butter with oil?
Yes, melted vegetable or coconut oil can replace butter for a slightly different texture and flavor. Keep the same quantity, but expect a softer crumb and less buttery taste.
What’s the best way to swirl the cinnamon sugar?
After sprinkling the cinnamon sugar on the batter layers, gently run a knife or spoon through the batter in an “S” or figure-eight motion just a couple of times. This creates pretty swirls without over-mixing the batter.
Final Thoughts
This Apple Bread recipe is one of those beloved classics that fills your kitchen with warmth and draws everyone to the table with its irresistible scent. It’s simple enough for a weekday treat yet special enough to share with company. I’m genuinely excited for you to try this recipe and discover how the cozy combination of apples, cinnamon, and brown sugar makes every bite a comforting hug in bread form. Happy baking, friend!
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Apple Bread Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (8-10 slices) 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Apple Bread recipe delivers the perfect fall flavor with sweet, chopped apples and fragrant cinnamon swirled into a moist, tender loaf. It’s an easy-to-make, comforting quick bread that’s ideal for breakfast or an afternoon snack. Featuring a cinnamon sugar swirl and a golden crust, this apple bread combines cozy spices and natural sweetness in every bite.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Sugar and Spices
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ½ cup granulated sugar
Wet Ingredients
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- ½ cup butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Main Flavor
- 2 cups chopped apples (Pink Lady, Gala, Honeycrisp – peeled and chopped, about 2 apples)
Instructions
- Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8 x 5 inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix Cinnamon Sugar: In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and ground cinnamon. Set aside for later use in creating the delicious swirl layer.
- Combine Eggs and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs and granulated sugar together until the mixture is fully combined and slightly thickened.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Stir in the melted butter and vanilla extract to the eggs and sugar mixture until the batter is smooth and uniform.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Add the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt to the wet ingredients. Mix gently just until all ingredients are combined; the batter will be thick and slightly lumpy.
- Fold in Apples: Gently fold the chopped apples into the batter to evenly distribute the fruit without overmixing.
- Layer Batter and Cinnamon Sugar: Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle about three-quarters of the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over this layer.
- Add Second Batter Layer and Swirl: Carefully spread the remaining batter over the cinnamon sugar layer. Sprinkle the remaining cinnamon sugar on top, then gently swirl it into the batter using a knife or spoon to create a beautiful marbled effect.
- Bake: Place the loaf pan in the oven and bake for 35 to 45 minutes until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. If the bread starts browning too quickly, tent it loosely with foil for the last 10 to 15 minutes of baking.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, slice and serve for a warm, comforting treat.
Notes
- Use tart or sweet apples like Pink Lady, Gala, or Honeycrisp for the best flavor and texture.
- Do not overmix the batter to avoid tough bread; mix just until combined.
- Let the bread cool fully before slicing to ensure clean, even slices.
- You can add chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans for extra texture.
- This bread stores well wrapped at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Snack, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/10th of loaf)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: apple bread, cinnamon apple bread, fall recipes, quick bread, autumn baking, cinnamon swirl bread
