Cinnamon Apple Bread

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that will warm your heart and home, you’ve come to the right place! This Cinnamon Apple Bread is not just any bread; it’s a cozy hug in loaf form. The combination of tender apple pieces and the sweet, spicy aroma of cinnamon creates a comforting experience that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Trust me, once you bake this bread, it will become a cherished recipe in your household.

This Cinnamon Apple Bread is special because it’s incredibly easy to prepare and deliciously satisfying. Whether you enjoy it fresh out of the oven or toasted with a bit of butter, each bite is a taste of fall. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have this bread baking away while you tackle other tasks.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet apple chunks and warm cinnamon flavor.
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack, this bread fits right in.
• Make ahead: It freezes beautifully, so you can whip up a few loaves to enjoy later!
• Delicious glaze: The simple cinnamon glaze adds that extra touch of sweetness to elevate the flavors.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple and wholesome ingredients makes cooking so much more enjoyable! Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this scrumptious Cinnamon Apple Bread:

For the Bread

• 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

For the Filling

• 1/2 cup light brown sugar (packed)
• 1-1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1 large apple, peeled, cored, and chopped into small pieces
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

For the Glaze

• 3/4 cups confectioners’ sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons water

Now that we have everything ready, let’s move on to some fun variations!

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with these ideas:

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch.
• Use different fruits: Substitute apples with pears or even blueberries for a unique twist.
• Try different spices: Experiment with nutmeg or allspice alongside cinnamon for new flavor profiles.
• Make it gluten-free: Swap out the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.

How to Make Cinnamon Apple Bread

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Greasing and flouring an 8.5 x 4.5 inch loaf pan ensures that your beautiful bread comes out easily after baking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together your flour, baking powder, and salt. This step helps distribute the leavening agent evenly throughout your flour, which is key for achieving that fluffy texture we all love.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and vanilla on medium-high speed until smooth and pale—about 3-4 minutes. Scraping down the sides ensures every bit gets mixed in well!

Step 4: Add Eggs

Beat in the eggs one at a time until fully incorporated. This adds richness to your batter and helps bind everything together beautifully.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

With the mixer on low speed, add half of your dry mixture followed by half of the milk. Alternate until everything is combined well. This method avoids overmixing which can lead to dense bread.

Step 6: Prepare the Apple Mixture

In another bowl, combine brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and chopped apples. This mixture gives your bread its delicious swirl that everyone will love!

Step 7: Make Topping Mixture

Mix together brown sugar and cinnamon for sprinkling on top later. This little touch adds sweetness right at the end.

Step 8: Layer Your Batter

Pour half of your batter into the prepared loaf pan. Top with half of the apple mixture then gently swirl through using a knife or skewer—don’t overdo it! The goal is to create beautiful layers without completely blending them together.

Step 9: Finish Layering

Pour in the remaining batter followed by the rest of your apple mixture. Swirl again lightly before sprinkling on your topping mixture.

Step 10: Bake

Pop it into your preheated oven for about 45 to 55 minutes until a cake tester comes out clean—just a few moist crumbs are okay because of those lovely apples!

Step 11: Cool and Glaze

Once baked, let it cool in the pan for about 15-20 minutes before transferring it to a cooling rack. While cooling, whisk together glaze ingredients until smooth then drizzle over your bread once cooled completely.

And there you have it! Enjoy each slice of this delightful Cinnamon Apple Bread with friends or family—it’s bound to become a favorite!

Pro Tips for Making Cinnamon Apple Bread

Baking is all about love and a little bit of know-how, so here are some tips to help you create the perfect loaf of Cinnamon Apple Bread!

• Use fresh apples – Fresh, crisp apples not only add flavor but also moisture to your bread. Varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work wonderfully for baking.

• Don’t overmix the batter – Gently combining the ingredients helps maintain a tender crumb. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf, so mix until just combined.

• Cool before slicing – Allowing the bread to cool completely helps it set and makes slicing easier. This way, you won’t end up with a crumbly mess!

• Swirl carefully – When swirling in the apple mixture, do it gently to maintain distinct layers. This creates a beautiful marbled effect that enhances both the look and flavor of your bread.

• Experiment with spices – Feel free to mix in a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for an extra layer of warmth and complexity in your flavor profile.

How to Serve Cinnamon Apple Bread

Served warm or at room temperature, this delightful Cinnamon Apple Bread makes for a fantastic breakfast or an afternoon snack. Here are some ideas on how to present it beautifully!

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting – A light sprinkle of powdered sugar adds a touch of sweetness and visual appeal.

• Chopped nuts – Toasted walnuts or pecans can provide a lovely crunch and complement the soft texture of the bread.

Side Dishes

• Yogurt parfaits – Creamy yogurt layered with granola and fresh fruit makes for a refreshing counterpoint to the sweetness of the bread.

• Coffee or chai tea – A warm beverage enhances the cozy flavors in your Cinnamon Apple Bread, making it perfect for chilly mornings or afternoons.

• Fruit salad – A bright mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the richness of the bread.

• Scrambled eggs – Lightly seasoned scrambled eggs introduce protein into your meal, complementing the sweet notes of your cinnamon loaf perfectly.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll not only master this delicious recipe but also impress family and friends at any gathering! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cinnamon Apple Bread is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, store it, or even freeze slices for a quick treat later. Here are some tips to keep your bread fresh and delicious.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the bread to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week.

Freezing

• Slice the bread into individual pieces for easy thawing.
• Wrap each slice in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• To prevent freezer burn, remove as much air as possible from the bag.

Reheating

• Thaw slices overnight in the refrigerator or on the counter for a few hours.
• For a warm treat, reheat slices in a toaster or oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 5-10 minutes.
• You can also microwave individual slices for about 15-20 seconds until warm.

FAQs

If you’re wondering about specific details regarding this recipe, I’ve got you covered!

How long does Cinnamon Apple Bread last?

Cinnamon Apple Bread can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days when wrapped properly. For extended freshness, consider refrigerating or freezing it.

Can I make Cinnamon Apple Bread ahead of time?

Absolutely! This recipe is great for meal prep. You can bake it ahead of time and store it or freeze it for later enjoyment.

What type of apples are best for this recipe?

For the best flavor and texture, use tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. They hold their shape well during baking and complement the sweetness perfectly.

Can I substitute ingredients in Cinnamon Apple Bread?

Yes! You can use plant-based butter instead of regular butter and non-dairy milk if you’re looking for alternatives. Just ensure that any substitutes maintain similar textures.

How can I serve Cinnamon Apple Bread?

This delightful bread is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack. Serve it plain, toasted with butter, or drizzled with extra cinnamon glaze!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Cinnamon Apple Bread as much as I do! The warm spices paired with tender apples create a comforting treat that’s perfect any time of year. Whether you’re sharing it with family or savoring a slice on your own, it’s sure to bring smiles all around. Happy baking!