This Cinnamon Apple Bread is the epitome of cozy fall baking. With a moist crumb and a swirl of cinnamon-spiced apples running through the center, this loaf delivers the perfect balance of sweet and spice. The caramelized cinnamon sugar topping adds a delightful crunch, while the drizzle of cinnamon glaze brings everything together into a deliciously comforting treat.
Whether you’re enjoying it as a breakfast treat or an afternoon snack, this bread pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or tea. Its buttery texture and warm spices make it a seasonal favorite, perfect for the cooler weather. Plus, the recipe is easy to follow, making it an ideal bake for both novice and experienced bakers alike.
Full Recipe:
- 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
Apple Mixture:
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 large apple, peeled, cored, and chopped into small pieces
Glaze:
- 3/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons water
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8.5 x 4.5 inch loaf pan.
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- Using an electric mixer, beat the butter, granulated sugar, and vanilla together on medium-high speed until smooth and pale (about 3-4 minutes).
- Beat in the eggs one at a time until incorporated.
- With the mixer on low speed, add half of the flour mixture, alternating with half of the milk. Add the remaining flour mixture and milk and mix to combine.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and chopped apples. Set aside.
- Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan and top it with half of the apple mixture. Swirl through the batter lightly with a knife or skewer.
- Pour the remaining batter on top, followed by the remaining apple mixture. Swirl again lightly.
- Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture on top.
- Bake for 45-55 minutes or until a cake tester or toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 15-20 minutes.
- While the bread cools, whisk together the glaze ingredients. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bread.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 55 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Kcal: 261 kcal | Servings: 8 servings
Why This Cinnamon Apple Bread Stands Out
This Cinnamon Apple Bread is a delightful combination of tender, moist crumb and a luscious swirl of cinnamon-spiced apples, making it a quintessential autumn treat. Unlike some apple bread recipes that can turn out dense, this recipe maintains a light texture thanks to the proper balance of wet and dry ingredients. The sweet apples not only add natural moisture but also infuse the bread with a warm, fruity flavor that complements the cinnamon perfectly.
Key Features of This Recipe
- Moist and Tender: The apples in the batter help retain moisture, ensuring every slice is soft and flavorful.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of cinnamon, brown sugar, and vanilla creates a comforting and rich flavor reminiscent of apple pie but in a convenient loaf form.
- Caramelized Cinnamon Sugar Topping: A sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top before baking creates a crispy, caramelized crust that adds a delightful crunch with every bite.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe is perfect for both beginner and experienced bakers.
Baking Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Apple Bread
- Choosing the Right Apples: For the best flavor, opt for apples that hold their shape during baking. Varieties like Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, and Braeburn are ideal as they balance sweetness and tartness without turning mushy.
- Cutting the Apples: Cut the apples into small to medium-sized chunks to ensure they distribute evenly throughout the bread and cook properly.
- Avoid Overmixing: Overmixing the batter can result in a dense loaf. Mix just until the dry and wet ingredients are combined for a light and tender texture.
- Swirling the Batter: When adding the apple mixture, use a knife or skewer to swirl gently. This creates beautiful ribbons of apple and cinnamon throughout the bread.
Serving and Storing Suggestions
- Serving: This bread is delicious on its own, but it pairs exceptionally well with a cup of hot coffee or tea. For an extra indulgence, serve slices warm with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey.
- Storing: Store the bread at room temperature, wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container, for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or reheat slices in the microwave.
Customization Options
- Add Nuts: For a bit of crunch, add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter.
- Spices: Enhance the spice profile by adding a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the dry ingredients.
- Gluten-Free Version: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend to make a gluten-free version of this bread.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Cinnamon Apple Bread is like a hug in loaf form. It’s the kind of bake that makes your kitchen smell like a cozy bakery and brings warmth to chilly mornings. Its simplicity doesn’t compromise on flavor, making it an irresistible treat for breakfast, dessert, or a midday snack. The rich, buttery flavor combined with the sweetness of caramelized apples and the warmth of cinnamon makes this bread a must-have for the fall season.
The Inspiration Behind Cinnamon Apple Bread
Cinnamon Apple Bread is a seasonal favorite, inspired by the flavors and scents of autumn. It combines the comforting essence of apple pie with the ease of a quick bread. This recipe takes the best elements of apple desserts – juicy, tart apples, warm spices, and a hint of caramel flavor – and transforms them into a loaf that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a snack. The use of brown sugar and cinnamon, reminiscent of a classic streusel topping, adds depth and warmth to the bread, making it feel like a cozy embrace on a chilly day.
Why Cinnamon Apple Bread is Perfect for Fall Baking
Fall is the season when apples are at their peak, making it the perfect time to bake with them. The tartness and sweetness of fresh, seasonal apples shine in this recipe, while the cinnamon provides that signature autumn flavor that we all crave when the weather starts to cool down. Baking this bread fills your kitchen with an aroma that rivals any fall-scented candle – a blend of apples, cinnamon, and buttery goodness that makes your home feel warm and inviting.
Health Benefits of Apples and Cinnamon
While this bread is certainly a treat, it also packs some nutritional benefits thanks to its star ingredients:
- Apples: High in dietary fiber and vitamin C, apples are a nutritious addition to this bread. They provide natural sweetness, reducing the need for excessive sugar while also offering a source of antioxidants.
- Cinnamon: Not just for flavor, cinnamon has been linked to various health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties, improved heart health, and blood sugar regulation.
Variations and Add-Ins for Cinnamon Apple Bread
- Apple Varieties: While the recipe suggests specific types like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith, feel free to use your favorite apples or a mix for a more complex flavor.
- Streusel Topping: For an even more decadent version, you can add a streusel topping made of flour, sugar, butter, and cinnamon before baking.
- Add a Glaze: While the recipe already includes a simple glaze, you can enhance it by adding a touch of maple syrup or caramel sauce for a different twist.
- Dairy-Free Option: Swap the butter with a dairy-free alternative and use almond or oat milk instead of regular milk to make this bread dairy-free.
Best Times to Enjoy Cinnamon Apple Bread
This bread is incredibly versatile and fits into many occasions:
- Breakfast: Enjoy a warm slice with your morning coffee or tea. Its sweetness is perfectly balanced for a morning treat.
- Brunch: Serve it alongside other brunch favorites like scrambled eggs, bacon, or yogurt for a well-rounded spread.
- Dessert: Pair a slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent dessert.
- Snack: It’s a great midday snack that can be packed into lunchboxes or enjoyed on the go.
How to Make This Recipe Ahead of Time
Cinnamon Apple Bread is an excellent make-ahead recipe, perfect for busy mornings or holiday gatherings. Here are some tips for making it ahead:
- Freezing: After baking, allow the bread to cool completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. To serve, thaw the bread overnight in the refrigerator and warm it up in the oven before slicing.
- Glazing Later: If you plan to freeze the bread, wait to add the glaze until after the bread has been thawed and reheated for the best texture.
Conclusion
Cinnamon Apple Bread is the perfect fall treat, combining the comforting flavors of cinnamon, apples, and brown sugar in a moist and tender loaf. Easy to make and versatile, this bread can be enjoyed as a breakfast, snack, or dessert. Whether you’re looking for a cozy addition to your autumn baking or a thoughtful homemade gift, this bread is sure to impress with its warm, spiced goodness and irresistible aroma.