If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting treat that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Apple Cinnamon Bread Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine moist, tender bread packed with tender chunks of fresh apples and infused with the warm, inviting spices of cinnamon and nutmeg. Perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert, this bread is a delightful way to celebrate the flavors of the season and bring a smile to everyone’s face at the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this Apple Cinnamon Bread Recipe is simple and rewarding. Each component plays a special role — from the fragrant spices that create the signature flavor to the fresh apples that add juicy bursts of sweetness and moisture.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure and perfect crumb for the bread.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the bread rise to a light, airy texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: The star spice that brings warmth and depth.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds a hint of sweet earthiness to complement the cinnamon.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened): Creates tenderness and a rich buttery flavor.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with browning.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed): Brings a subtle molasses note and moisture.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients and give structure.
- 1/4 cup milk: Moistens the batter for a soft crumb.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Enhances the sweetness and layers of flavor.
- 2 cups peeled and chopped apples (about 2 medium apples): Fresh apple chunks add sweetness and a tender, juicy texture.
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional): Adds crunch and a toasty note to contrast the soft bread.
How to Make Apple Cinnamon Bread Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan so the bread bakes evenly and comes out easily. Getting this step right ensures a perfect baking environment for your Apple Cinnamon Bread Recipe.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This blend of dry ingredients is where the warm spice notes start to build and will evenly distribute throughout the bread.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, cream the softened butter with both the granulated and brown sugars until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is key for creating a tender bread with a beautifully rich flavor and great texture.
Step 4: Add Eggs, Milk, and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then stir in the milk and vanilla extract — these liquids add moisture and scent, balancing the sweetness perfectly in the Apple Cinnamon Bread Recipe.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix here to maintain a soft, tender crumb without toughness.
Step 6: Fold in Apples and Walnuts
Gently fold in the chopped apples and walnuts (if using). The apples bring juiciness and natural sweetness, while the walnuts add a toasty crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft bread.
Step 7: Bake Your Bread
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. This baking time ensures the bread is perfectly cooked, moist on the inside, and beautifully browned on the outside.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes to set, then remove it and allow it to cool completely on a wire rack. The cooling process lets the flavors settle and makes slicing easier without crumbling.
How to Serve Apple Cinnamon Bread Recipe
Garnishes
A light dusting of powdered sugar, a smear of cinnamon butter, or a drizzle of honey can take your Apple Cinnamon Bread Recipe to the next level, adding a touch of elegance and extra flavor that’s perfect for sharing.
Side Dishes
Pair your bread with a warm cup of chai tea, coffee, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a truly comforting snack or dessert experience. A side of fresh fruit or yogurt also pairs beautifully for a balanced breakfast.
Creative Ways to Present
Try slicing the bread thick and toasting it lightly, then topping it with cream cheese and thin apple slices for a fancy brunch. Or package slices as gifts with a pretty ribbon and a note—it’s a thoughtful way to spread joy through the Apple Cinnamon Bread Recipe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover Apple Cinnamon Bread Recipe fresh by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or placing it in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay lovely for up to three days if stored this way.
Freezing
This bread freezes beautifully. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil or place in a freezer bag. Frozen, it can last for up to three months without losing its delicious flavor and texture.
Reheating
To enjoy, thaw frozen slices overnight in the fridge or at room temperature. Reheat in a toaster oven or microwave for a few seconds to bring back that fresh-baked warmth and softness that makes the Apple Cinnamon Bread Recipe so irresistible.
FAQs
Can I use other types of apples for this bread?
Absolutely! Firm apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji work well because they hold their texture during baking and add a lovely balance of tartness and sweetness.
Is it necessary to add walnuts?
Not at all! Walnuts are optional and add a nice crunch, but the bread is delicious even without them. You could also try pecans or leave nuts out if you prefer a nut-free version.
Can I make this Apple Cinnamon Bread recipe gluten-free?
You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Just make sure it contains xanthan gum or a similar binder to maintain the bread’s texture.
How do I know when the bread is fully baked?
The best way is to insert a toothpick or skewer into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, your bread is done and ready to enjoy.
Can I add other spices?
Definitely! Some cinnamon lovers like to add a pinch of ground cloves, ginger, or even cardamom for a more complex spice profile, making your Apple Cinnamon Bread Recipe uniquely yours.
Final Thoughts
This Apple Cinnamon Bread Recipe is more than just a loaf of bread — it’s a cozy tradition waiting to become a favorite in your home. With its tender texture, warm spices, and sweet apple goodness, every bite feels like a celebration. I can’t wait for you to try it and enjoy that delicious, homemade comfort you deserve.
Print
Apple Cinnamon Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Apple Cinnamon Bread is a moist, flavorful loaf perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack. Made with fresh apples, warm cinnamon, and a hint of nutmeg, it combines the sweetness of brown and granulated sugars with tender walnuts for an added crunch. Baked to golden perfection, this comforting bread fills your kitchen with the aroma of fall spices and fresh fruit.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Additional Ingredients
- 2 cups peeled and chopped apples (about 2 medium apples)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan thoroughly and set it aside to get ready for the batter.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. This ensures the spices and leavening agents are evenly distributed.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and packed brown sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, which helps incorporate air for a tender crumb.
- Add Eggs and Liquids: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then stir in the milk and vanilla extract to combine all wet ingredients evenly.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined, being careful not to overmix, which can make the bread tough.
- Fold in Apples and Walnuts: Carefully fold in the peeled and chopped apples along with the optional chopped walnuts to distribute them evenly without breaking the batter.
- Pour Batter into Pan: Transfer the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula to ensure even baking.
- Bake: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when done.
- Cool Bread: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes to set. Then remove it from the pan and let it cool completely on a wire rack before slicing to prevent crumbling.
Notes
- For extra moisture, you can substitute half the milk with applesauce.
- Walnuts can be omitted or substituted with pecans or almonds as per preference.
- If you prefer a sweeter bread, sprinkle a cinnamon sugar topping before baking.
- Store the bread wrapped tightly at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- This bread freezes well; wrap tightly and thaw at room temperature before serving.
