Cinnamon Apple Bread

If you’re looking for a cozy treat that fills your home with the warm aroma of spices and apples, then this Cinnamon Apple Bread is just the recipe for you! It’s the perfect balance of sweet and spicy, making it an instant favorite among family and friends. Whether you’re whipping it up for a busy weeknight dessert or serving it at a family gathering, this bread is sure to bring smiles all around.

What truly makes this recipe special is the scrumptious swirl of brown sugar and chopped apples that runs through the tender loaf. Topped with a delightful cinnamon glaze, it’s not just a treat for your taste buds but also a feast for your eyes. Trust me; once you take that first slice, you’ll want to make this again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: This Cinnamon Apple Bread comes together quickly, making it perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros.
• Family-friendly: Kids love helping mix and swirl the batter, making it a fun activity for everyone.
• Deliciously versatile: Enjoy it as a breakfast treat, afternoon snack, or even dessert!
• Make-ahead goodness: Bake it in advance and store it for up to a week—if it lasts that long!
• Irresistible flavor: The combination of cinnamon and apples creates a comforting sweetness that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that this recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you may already have in your pantry. Let’s gather everything we need to create this delicious Cinnamon Apple Bread!

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

For the Topping

• 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 how flexible it can be! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Add nuts: Stir in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an added crunch.
• Use different fruits: Swap out apples for pears or even add dried cranberries for a twist.
• Make it healthier: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or use less sugar if you prefer.
• Add spices: Experiment by adding nutmeg or ginger to enhance the flavor profile further.

How to Make Cinnamon Apple Bread

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Greasing and flouring an 8.5 x 4.5 inch loaf pan will help your bread come out perfectly without sticking.

Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This step ensures that everything is evenly distributed before you combine it with the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using an electric handheld mixer or stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat together the butter, granulated sugar, and vanilla on medium-high speed until smooth and pale (about 3-4 minutes). Scraping down the sides helps incorporate all ingredients well.

Step 4: Incorporate Eggs

Beat in each egg one at a time until fully incorporated. This adds moisture and richness to your bread.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

With your mixer on low speed, alternate adding half of the flour mixture with half of the milk. Mix until just combined—this keeps your bread tender!

Step 6: Prepare Apple Mixture

In another bowl, combine brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and chopped apples. This mixture will create that delicious swirl throughout your bread.

Step 7: Make Topping Mixture

In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar and cinnamon. Set aside; you’ll sprinkle this on top later!

Step 8: Layer Your Batter

Pour half of your batter into the prepared loaf pan followed by half of the apple mixture. Using a knife or skewer, gently swirl through—don’t overdo it; we want those beautiful layers intact!

Step 9: Finish Layering

Pour in the remaining batter followed by the rest of the apple mixture. Again swirl gently using a knife before sprinkling your topping on top.

Step 10: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for about 45 to 55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean (just a few moist crumbs are okay due to those lovely soft apples).

Step 11: Cool & Glaze

Once baked, let the bread cool in its pan for about 15-20 minutes before transferring it to a cooling rack. While cooling, whisk together glaze ingredients and drizzle over your warm bread. Allow it to cool completely before slicing into that delightful loaf!

Enjoy every slice of your homemade Cinnamon Apple Bread!

Pro Tips for Making Cinnamon Apple Bread

Baking this delicious Cinnamon Apple Bread is a wonderful experience, and a few handy tips can take it from great to absolutely fabulous!

• Use Fresh Apples: Fresh apples not only add moisture but also enhance the flavor profile of your bread. Look for firm varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best results.

• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mixing too much can lead to a tough texture. Stir just until the ingredients are combined to keep your bread light and tender.

• Let It Cool Before Slicing: Allowing the bread to cool completely helps set the structure and makes slicing easier without crumbling. Plus, it enhances the flavors as they meld together!

• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice along with the cinnamon for an extra layer of warmth and depth in flavor.

• Store Properly: Keep any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This will help maintain its moisture and freshness.

How to Serve Cinnamon Apple Bread

Serving your Cinnamon Apple Bread can be just as exciting as baking it! Here are some delightful ideas to elevate your presentation.

Garnishes

• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle some chopped walnuts or pecans on top of the glaze for added texture and a nutty flavor that complements the sweetness.

• Whipped Coconut Cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a lovely richness and a hint of sweetness, making each slice even more indulgent.

• Cinnamon Dusting: A light dusting of cinnamon on top of the glaze gives a beautiful finish and enhances that aromatic spice appeal.

Side Dishes

• Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits balances out the sweetness of the bread and adds a burst of color on your plate.

• Yogurt Parfait: Serve with a yogurt parfait layered with granola and seasonal fruits. The creaminess pairs wonderfully with the spiced bread.

• Coffee or Herbal Tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea makes for an inviting beverage pairing, perfect for breakfast or afternoon tea time.

• Cheese Platter: Include some mild cheeses like brie or gouda on a platter alongside your bread. The creaminess contrasts beautifully with the sweet and spiced flavors of the loaf.

Enjoy each slice of this delightful Cinnamon Apple Bread, whether you indulge in it during breakfast, dessert, or as a cozy snack throughout your day!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cinnamon Apple Bread is perfect for meal prep! It keeps well, making it an excellent option for busy mornings or delightful snacks throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store it at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, keep it in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Allow the bread to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then again in aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, let it thaw at room temperature overnight.

Reheating

• To reheat slices, pop them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds.
• Alternatively, warm slices in a toaster oven until heated through.
• Enjoy with a pat of butter or a drizzle of extra glaze!

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delightful recipe.

What makes Cinnamon Apple Bread so special?

Cinnamon Apple Bread stands out because of its tender loaf filled with juicy apples and a sweet cinnamon swirl. The drizzle of cinnamon glaze adds a delightful finishing touch that elevates every bite!

Can I use different types of apples for Cinnamon Apple Bread?

Absolutely! You can experiment with various apple varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji. Each will bring its unique flavor and sweetness to your Cinnamon Apple Bread.

How do I make Cinnamon Apple Bread gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that your baking powder is also gluten-free for the best results!

Is there an alternative to eggs in Cinnamon Apple Bread?

Yes! You can use unsweetened applesauce as an egg substitute—1/4 cup of applesauce replaces one egg. This keeps your bread moist while keeping it egg-free!

Final Thoughts

I hope this Cinnamon Apple Bread becomes a beloved recipe in your kitchen! It’s not just delicious; it’s also a lovely way to embrace the flavors of fall with family and friends. Enjoy making this treat and sharing it with those you love—I can’t wait for you to try it!