If you’re craving something warmly comforting and full of cozy fall flavors any time of the year, this Apple Cinnamon Pecan Bread Recipe is the perfect treat to bake up. Imagine a moist quick bread bursting with tender chunks of apple, spiced just right with cinnamon, and studded with toasted pecans that give every bite a delightful crunch. It’s an easy-to-make loaf that brings together the best of sweet and nutty flavors, making it ideal for breakfast, brunch, or that afternoon coffee break you deserve.

Apple Cinnamon Pecan Bread Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients might be simple, but each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of texture, flavor, and color that makes this bread so irresistible. From the spices that warm the senses to the pecans that add crunch, every element is thoughtfully chosen.

2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the sturdy structure your bread needs to rise and hold all those delicious mix-ins.
1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps create a light texture by adding lift to the batter.
½ teaspoon baking powder: Works alongside baking soda for a perfect rise and fluffy crumb.
½ teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon: Brings that signature warm, spicy note essential to this recipe.
½ cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and moisture, making every slice tender.
½ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens without overpowering, blending perfectly with brown sugar.
½ cup light brown sugar, packed: Adds depth and a subtle molasses undertone for complexity.
2 large eggs: Bind everything together and add more moisture.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with a lovely aromatic touch.
½ cup sour cream or plain yogurt: Keeps the bread amazingly moist and tender.
2 cups peeled and chopped apples (about 2 medium apples): The star ingredient that gives fresh bursts of juicy sweetness.
¾ cup chopped pecans, toasted: Adds buttery crunch and a toasty aroma that elevates each bite.

How to Make Apple Cinnamon Pecan Bread Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of your beautifully baked bread.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon. This blend of dry ingredients is what will give your bread its soft crumb and delicious cinnamon flavor.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is key for incorporating air, which helps create that lovely tender texture.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Flavorings

Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream (or plain yogurt) until you have a smooth, luscious batter.

Step 5: Mix Dry Ingredients Into Wet

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix gently until just combined — you want to avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender and moist.

Step 6: Fold in Apples and Pecans

Carefully fold in the peeled and chopped apples along with the toasted pecans. These add bursts of flavor and satisfying texture with every mouthful.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 55 to 65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

How to Serve Apple Cinnamon Pecan Bread Recipe

Garnishes

A light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey can add an extra touch of sweetness and visual appeal. A spread of softened butter or cream cheese on each slice elevates the flavor even more, making every bite richer and creamier.

Side Dishes

This bread pairs wonderfully with hot beverages like coffee, tea, or even warm cider. For a heartier brunch, serve alongside scrambled eggs or yogurt with fresh fruit to balance out the sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing the bread thickly and toasting it lightly for a crunchy contrast to the soft interior, or cut it into small cubes to add to a bread pudding or French toast recipe. You can even make mini loaf muffins using the same batter for individual servings that are perfect for gifting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap your Apple Cinnamon Pecan Bread tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It stays fresh for up to three days, making it a perfect grab-and-go treat for busy mornings.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy this delicious bread later, freeze the cooled loaf wrapped well in foil and plastic wrap. It will keep perfectly for up to two months and thaw beautifully without losing moisture or flavor.

Reheating

When you’re ready to eat frozen or stored bread, warm it gently in a toaster oven or microwave. Just a few seconds can bring back the fresh-out-of-the-oven warmth and enhance the comforting aroma of cinnamon and apples.

FAQs

Can I use different types of apples for this recipe?

Absolutely! While tart apples like Granny Smith add a nice balance to the sweetness, you can use any apple you love. Just keep in mind that sweeter apples will make the bread sweeter overall.

Is it possible to substitute pecans with another nut?

Yes, walnuts or almonds work beautifully as a substitute for pecans if you prefer a different nut flavor or have dietary preferences. Toast them lightly to enhance their nutty aroma.

Can I make this bread gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free version, swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup. You may need to adjust baking times slightly and ensure your leavening agents are gluten-free.

What if I don’t have sour cream or yogurt?

If you don’t have sour cream or plain yogurt, buttermilk is a great alternative that will keep the bread moist while adding a slight tang. You can also use a milk and vinegar mixture as a substitute.

How can I make this bread vegan?

To transform this into a vegan recipe, use plant-based butter and replace the eggs with flax eggs or applesauce. Use a dairy-free yogurt instead of sour cream, and make sure your sugar choice is vegan-friendly.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about the comforting aroma and cozy flavors of this Apple Cinnamon Pecan Bread Recipe. Whether you’re baking it to enjoy with family or to brighten your own day, it delivers a delicious experience with each slice. I hope you love making it as much as I do — it’s simply one of those simple joys you can enjoy year-round.