If you’re looking for a warm, comforting treat that brings together the perfect harmony of sweet apples, spicy cinnamon, and crunchy pecans, this Apple Cinnamon Pecan Bread Recipe is your new best friend. Moist and flavorful, it’s ideal for a cozy breakfast, an afternoon delight with tea, or a simple dessert that tastes like a hug on a plate. Each slice bursts with fresh apple chunks and nuts that add just the right texture, making this bread a beloved staple you’ll want to bake again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this Apple Cinnamon Pecan Bread Recipe is refreshingly simple. Each one plays a pivotal role in shaping the bread’s tender crumb, rich flavor, and inviting aroma.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The backbone of your bread, providing structure and softness.
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder: Helps your bread rise to fluffy perfection.
- ½ teaspoon baking soda: Enhances browning and adds lift.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and boosts flavor depth.
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon: The star spice that brings warm, cozy notes.
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds subtle earthiness and complexity.
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened): Gives the bread that rich, tender crumb and buttery flavor.
- ½ cup granulated sugar: Delivers sweetness without overpowering.
- ½ cup light brown sugar (packed): Adds moistness and a hint of caramel depth.
- 2 large eggs: Bind everything together and add richness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the sweetness and aroma.
- ½ cup sour cream: Keeps the bread moist and tender with a slight tang.
- 2 medium apples (peeled, cored, and chopped): Fresh bursts of juicy natural sweetness in every bite.
- ¾ cup chopped pecans: Provide a satisfying crunch and buttery nutty flavor.
How to Make Apple Cinnamon Pecan Bread Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to ensure your bread comes out effortlessly when it’s done. This sets a smooth start for your baking adventure.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Combining these early ensures your spice and leavening agents are evenly distributed, which means a perfectly spiced, well-risen bread every time.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
Grab a large mixing bowl and beat the softened butter with the granulated and brown sugar until the mixture turns light and fluffy. This step adds air to your batter, contributing to that wonderful soft texture we all crave.
Step 4: Incorporate Eggs, Vanilla, and Sour Cream
Beat the eggs in one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream until everything is smooth. The sour cream is the secret hero here—it infuses moisture and a touch of tang that balances the sweetness beautifully.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture just until combined. Overmixing can make your bread tough, so stop as soon as you see no streaks of flour.
Step 6: Fold in Apples and Pecans
Gently incorporate the chopped apples and pecans, ensuring they’re evenly spread throughout the batter. These add the texture and bursts of flavor that make this Apple Cinnamon Pecan Bread Recipe truly special.
Step 7: Bake to Golden 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 in the center comes out clean. Let it 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 simple pat of butter melting on a warm slice can elevate the bread spectacularly, but feel free to jazz it up with a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a sweet finishing touch.
Side Dishes
Pair your Apple Cinnamon Pecan Bread with a hot cup of coffee, chai tea, or even a warm mug of apple cider. For a heartier meal, serve alongside Greek yogurt or a creamy cheese spread to balance the sweet and nutty notes.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn it into a charming brunch centerpiece by slicing and arranging on a rustic wooden board, surrounded by fresh fruit and nuts. Or, toast slices lightly and spread with cinnamon cream cheese for an indulgent spin.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container, slices of this Apple Cinnamon Pecan Bread Recipe stay fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature. Keep it covered to preserve moisture and prevent drying out.
Freezing
This bread freezes wonderfully! Wrap the cooled loaf or individual slices securely in foil and place them in a freezer bag. It will keep its deliciousness for up to 3 months, making it perfect for planning ahead or gifting.
Reheating
To bring back that just-baked warmth, reheat slices in a toaster oven or microwave for about 20 seconds. For an extra cozy touch, add a small pat of butter to melt on top right before serving.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of apple in this recipe?
Absolutely! While tart apples like Granny Smith provide a nice balance, sweeter varieties such as Fuji or Gala will also work and offer their own unique flavor twist. Just be sure to peel and chop them evenly.
Is it possible to substitute the pecans with another nut?
Yes, feel free to swap pecans with walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts based on your preference or what you have on hand. Each nut will add its own delightful crunch and flavor to the bread.
Can I make this bread dairy-free?
You can certainly try! Swap the butter with a plant-based alternative and replace the sour cream with a dairy-free yogurt or coconut cream. The texture might vary slightly, but the flavors will remain wonderful.
What’s the best way to ensure the bread stays moist?
Using sour cream and not overmixing the batter are key. Also, be cautious not to overbake—start checking for doneness at 55 minutes. Properly wrapped after cooling, the bread will hold moisture beautifully.
Can I double the recipe to make two loaves?
Yes, doubling the ingredients works well, but bake in two separate pans rather than one large one to ensure even cooking. Adjust baking time accordingly, but start checking doneness with a toothpick around the usual time frame.
Final Thoughts
This Apple Cinnamon Pecan Bread Recipe is truly one of those cozy classics that fits perfectly into any season, especially when you crave something that feels homemade and heartfelt. Its inviting aroma alone is enough to lift spirits, and the moist, flavorful slices will have you coming back for more. I can’t wait for you to try it out and make this delicious bread a happy part of your baking adventures!
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Apple Cinnamon Pecan Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (8 slices)
- Category: Breakfast, Snack, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This moist and flavorful apple cinnamon pecan bread is a cozy, sweet treat perfect for fall or any time of year. Packed with chunks of fresh apples, warm cinnamon spice, and crunchy pecans, it’s perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a midday snack. Serve it warm with a pat of butter or enjoy it as-is with your favorite hot beverage.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
Wet Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup light brown sugar (packed)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup sour cream
Add-ins
- 2 medium apples (peeled, cored, and chopped)
- ¾ cup chopped pecans
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg until evenly combined.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter with granulated sugar and light brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which usually takes about 3 to 4 minutes.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time to ensure even mixing, then add the vanilla extract and mix well.
- Incorporate Sour Cream: Add the sour cream to the wet mixture and stir until smooth and well incorporated.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture, stirring gently just until combined to avoid overmixing which can make the bread tough.
- Fold in Apples and Pecans: Carefully fold in the chopped apples and chopped pecans to distribute evenly throughout the batter.
- Transfer to Pan and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 55 to 65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the Bread: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps the bread set and makes slicing easier.
Notes
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a balanced sweet-tart flavor.
- You can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream if preferred.
- This bread freezes well—wrap tightly and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
