If you are looking for a cozy, irresistible treat that fills your home with the warm, nostalgic scents of autumn, this Apple Cinnamon Bread Recipe is your new best friend. Tender, moist, and bursting with sweet apples and fragrant cinnamon, this bread is perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or even dessert. The layers of cinnamon-spiced apples and a buttery crumble on top create a delightful texture contrast, making every bite a joy. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this Apple Cinnamon Bread Recipe is straightforward and produces a stunning loaf that tastes like a hug in bread form.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple pantry staples, but each one plays a crucial role in making this bread moist, flavorful, and perfectly tender. From the spicy cinnamon that makes your kitchen smell like fall to the fresh apples that add bursts of juicy sweetness, every component counts.
- Brown sugar: Adds a rich, caramel-like sweetness essential for depth of flavor and moisture.
- Ground cinnamon: Provides that signature warm, spicy note that defines this bread.
- Apples: Peeled and diced, they bring freshness and natural sweetness with delightful texture.
- Granulated sugar: Balances the natural tartness of apples and helps in browning.
- Unsalted butter (room temperature): Ensures a creamy, tender crumb without overpowering saltiness.
- Large egg (room temperature): Binds ingredients and adds richness.
- Unsweetened applesauce: Keeps the bread moist without added fat, enhancing apple flavor.
- Pure vanilla extract: Amplifies the sweetness and rounds out the spices.
- All-purpose flour: Forms the structure of the bread for a tender yet sturdy loaf.
- Baking powder: Gives the bread a light rise and airy texture.
- Kosher salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor complexity.
- Milk: Adds moisture and softness to the batter.
- Unsalted butter (melted): Used for the crumble topping, adding buttery crunch.
- Powdered sugar: For a simple glaze to finish, adding sweetness and a pretty shine.
How to Make Apple Cinnamon Bread Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Greasing a 9×5-inch loaf pan with nonstick spray ensures the bread won’t stick and will release beautifully once baked. Setting this up early makes the process smooth and stress-free.
Step 2: Mix the Apples with Cinnamon and Brown Sugar
In a small bowl, gently toss the peeled, diced apples with â…“ cup brown sugar and 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon. This mixture will give the apples a deliciously sweet and spiced coating that will melt into the bread as it bakes, creating those irresistible pockets of flavor.
Step 3: Cream Sugar and Butter, Add Wet Ingredients
Using a mixer, beat granulated sugar and room temperature butter until fluffy and creamy. This aerates the batter, giving the bread a light texture. Next, mix in the egg, applesauce, and pure vanilla extract until everything is blended and smooth, building a flavorful, moist base.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients and Add to Wet Mixture
Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl to distribute the leavening agents evenly. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet mixture while pouring in the milk bit by bit, mixing until the batter is smooth and just combined—over-mixing can make the bread dense.
Step 5: Layer the Batter and Apples
Pour half of the batter into your prepared pan, then sprinkle half of the remaining brown sugar and cinnamon on top. Layer half of the cinnamon-coated apples over that, then add the remaining batter. Finish with the rest of the apple mixture, sugar, and cinnamon. This layering creates that signature swirl of apples and spice in every slice.
Step 6: Add the Crumble Topping and Bake
For an extra special touch, sprinkle the coffee cake crumble topping—made from melted butter, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt—over the top of the loaf. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The crumble will turn golden and crunchy, contrasting perfectly with the soft bread inside.
How to Serve Apple Cinnamon Bread Recipe
Garnishes
For a simple yet elegant finish, dust the top with powdered sugar or drizzle with a light glaze made from powdered sugar and milk. A sprinkle of extra cinnamon on top can add a nice visual hint of spice and deepen the aroma just before serving.
Side Dishes
This bread pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of tea, coffee, or spiced cider. For a heartier option, serve alongside creamy soft cheese or a dollop of Greek yogurt to complement the sweetness and add creaminess.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut thick slices and toast them lightly, then spread with butter or cream cheese for an elevated breakfast treat. You can also use this Apple Cinnamon Bread Recipe to make decadent French toast with cinnamon syrup for a special brunch that everyone will rave about.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It will keep at room temperature for up to three days while staying soft and flavorful, making it perfect for a quick grab-and-go snack.
Freezing
You can freeze this bread by wrapping it well with plastic wrap and placing it in a freezer bag. It will keep beautifully for up to three months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge or at room temperature before serving.
Reheating
To bring back that fresh-baked warmth, reheat slices in a toaster oven or microwave for about 15-20 seconds. The crumble topping crisps up nicely, and the bread regains its soft, moist texture with that comforting aroma filling your kitchen again.
FAQs
Can I use different types of apples for this Apple Cinnamon Bread Recipe?
Absolutely! While tart apples like Granny Smith add nice balance, sweeter varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp also work beautifully and add varying flavor layers. Mixing two types can give more complexity.
Is it possible to make this bread gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Be sure it contains xanthan gum or add a stabilizer for the best texture. Adjust baking time as needed.
Can I replace the applesauce with something else?
If you don’t have applesauce on hand, mashed banana or plain yogurt are good alternatives to keep the bread moist without changing the flavor too much.
How do I ensure the cinnamon apples layer doesn’t sink?
Coating the apples with brown sugar and cinnamon before layering helps them hold their shape. Also, pouring half the batter first creates a stable base to keep the apples suspended during baking.
Can I add nuts or raisins to this Apple Cinnamon Bread Recipe?
Definitely! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or raisins can be folded into the batter or sprinkled on top with the crumble for added texture and flavor. Just be mindful not to overload the batter.
Final Thoughts
This Apple Cinnamon Bread Recipe is one of those beloved pantries staples that quickly becomes a favorite for sharing and savoring with loved ones. Its inviting aroma, cozy flavors, and delightful texture make it an absolute winner for any time of day. Don’t wait to try it yourself—you’ll be making this bread again and again once you taste that perfect balance of tender apples, warm cinnamon, and buttery crumble!
