If you’re looking for a cozy, sweet treat that fills your kitchen with the warm aroma of spices and fresh fruit, this Cinnamon Apple Bread Recipe is exactly what you need. This delightful bread brings together tender, moist crumb and the perfect balance of cinnamon spice with juicy chunks of apple in every bite. It’s a simple yet impressive homemade bread that’s perfect for breakfast, snack time, or even a comforting dessert. Once you try this Cinnamon Apple Bread Recipe, it’s sure to become your go-to for easy, flavorful baking that feels like a warm hug in bread form.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Cinnamon Apple Bread Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each carefully chosen to create an irresistible blend of flavors and textures. From the gentle softness the apples bring, to the rich warmth of cinnamon, every element plays its part beautifully.
- All-purpose flour: The foundation for a tender, soft bread crumb.
- Baking soda: Helps the bread rise perfectly to a light texture.
- Salt: Balances the sweetness, enhancing the flavors.
- Ground cinnamon: Adds that signature warm spice essential to this recipe.
- Unsalted butter: Provides richness and moistness for a luscious bite.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the bread with a clean, bright note.
- Brown sugar: Adds depth and a hint of caramel undertones.
- Eggs: Bind everything together while contributing to a tender crumb.
- Milk: Keeps the bread moist and soft.
- Vanilla extract: Infuses subtle aromatic sweetness.
- Apples (peeled and chopped): Bring juicy bursts and natural sweetness throughout.
- Cinnamon sugar: A special topping swirl made from sugar and cinnamon to create a delightful crust and extra flavor punch.
How to Make Cinnamon Apple Bread Recipe
Step 1: Prepare your oven and pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×5-inch loaf pan. This ensures your bread bakes evenly and releases easily once baked, making the whole process a breeze.
Step 2: Mix the dry ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. Combining these first allows the baking soda and spices to distribute evenly throughout the bread, so every slice is perfectly flavored.
Step 3: Cream the butter and sugars
In a large bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step is key for creating that melt-in-your-mouth texture in the finished bread.
Step 4: Add the eggs, milk, and vanilla
Crack in the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then stir in the milk and vanilla extract for moisture and that irresistible aroma that hints at homemade goodness.
Step 5: Combine wet and dry ingredients, fold in apples
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined — avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender. Gently fold in the chopped apples, so they stay in lovely chunks throughout the bread.
Step 6: Layer with cinnamon sugar
Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan, then sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture over it. Add the remaining batter on top, finishing with the rest of the cinnamon sugar. This layering creates bursts of sweet cinnamon pockets that make this bread extra special.
Step 7: Bake to perfection
Bake the bread for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before moving it to a wire rack. This rest allows the bread to settle, making slicing much easier and neater.
How to Serve Cinnamon Apple Bread Recipe
Garnishes
While the bread itself is delicious on its own, a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey or maple syrup can add an extra touch of sweetness and visual appeal. If you want to indulge, a dollop of whipped cream or a schmear of cream cheese really brings out the cinnamon and apple flavors.
Side Dishes
This bread is fantastic when paired with a warm cup of coffee, chai tea, or even a glass of cold milk. Serve it alongside a fresh fruit salad or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a breakfast or dessert that feels truly comforting and complete.
Creative Ways to Present
Try slicing and toasting your cinnamon apple bread, then spread a little butter or almond butter on top. You can also transform it into French toast for a decadent weekend brunch or cut it into cubes for a bread pudding that highlights those luscious apple cinnamon flavors in a new way.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your leftover cinnamon apple bread tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps it moist and flavorful so you can enjoy it fresh for days without drying out.
Freezing
If you want to keep your bread longer, slice it and place the pieces in a resealable freezer bag. Frozen cinnamon apple bread lasts for up to 3 months, and you’ll still get that fresh-baked taste whenever you want.
Reheating
To warm up a slice, pop it in the toaster or microwave for a few seconds. You can also heat it briefly in a low oven for a warm, freshly baked feel. Adding a pat of butter while reheating makes every bite sing with richness.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of apple for this Cinnamon Apple Bread Recipe?
Absolutely! Granny Smith apples work great for a tart contrast, but sweeter varieties like Fuji or Gala also add lovely flavor. Just make sure to peel and chop them evenly for consistent texture.
Can I substitute the butter with oil?
You can substitute with vegetable or canola oil, but keep in mind the texture might be slightly less rich and dense. Using oil will still keep the bread moist but won’t have quite the same buttery flavor.
Is it possible to make this bread gluten-free?
Yes, you can try a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour. For best results, look for a blend that includes xanthan gum to help mimic the structure of wheat flour.
How can I tell when my cinnamon apple bread is fully baked?
Insert a toothpick or thin knife into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs (no wet batter), your bread is perfectly baked and ready to cool.
Can I double this recipe to make two loaves?
You sure can! Just double all the ingredients and bake in two separate loaf pans. Keep the same oven temperature, but baking time may vary slightly, so start checking for doneness around 50 minutes.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving something homemade that feels both comforting and exciting, this Cinnamon Apple Bread Recipe is a wonderful pick. It’s straightforward enough for beginner bakers but yields impressive results that warm you from the inside out. So gather those simple ingredients, have fun in the kitchen, and treat yourself and your loved ones to this cozy bread that celebrates autumn in every bite.
