Cinnamon Apple Bread

If you’re looking for a cozy treat to warm up your kitchen and fill your home with the delightful scent of cinnamon, this Cinnamon Apple Bread is just the recipe you need! It’s one of those special bakes that’s perfect for any occasion—be it a busy weeknight dessert or a comforting addition to your weekend brunch. The combination of tender bread, sweet apples, and a swirl of cinnamon sugar makes it an instant favorite among friends and family.

What I love most about this Cinnamon Apple Bread is how simple and wholesome the ingredients are. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up any apples you might have lingering in the fruit bowl. Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll understand why this recipe holds such a special place in my heart!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can whip this up without stress.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet apple and cinnamon flavors.
• Perfect for sharing: This bread is great for gatherings or as a thoughtful gift for neighbors.
• Versatile: Enjoy it as breakfast, dessert, or a sweet snack anytime!
• Make-ahead option: You can prepare the batter in advance and bake when you’re ready.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s dive into the ingredients that make this Cinnamon Apple Bread so delicious! They are simple and wholesome, ensuring every slice is packed with flavor.

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 Cinnamon Swirl

• 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

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
• Mix in other fruits: Try adding diced pears or berries for a fruity twist.
• Use different spices: Swap out ground cinnamon for nutmeg or pumpkin spice for a seasonal flair.
• Make it healthier: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for extra fiber.

How to Make Cinnamon Apple Bread

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This step is crucial because starting with a hot oven ensures your bread rises perfectly. Grease and flour an 8.5 x 4.5 inch loaf pan to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This step helps distribute the leavening agent evenly throughout the flour so your bread will rise beautifully.

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 everything is well combined.

Step 4: Add Eggs

Beat in the eggs one at a time until fully incorporated. This helps create structure in your bread by binding all the ingredients together.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

With the mixer on low speed, add about half of the flour mixture along with half of the milk. Then add in the remaining flour mixture and milk until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; this keeps your bread light and fluffy!

Step 6: Prepare Cinnamon Apple Mixture

In another bowl, combine brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and chopped apples. This mixture will add flavor throughout your loaf while providing that lovely swirl we all adore.

Step 7: Create Topping

In a small bowl, mix together some brown sugar and cinnamon for topping. This adds a sweet crunch to your bread’s golden crust!

Step 8: Layer Batter and Apples

Pour half of the batter into your prepared loaf pan followed by half of the apple mixture. Use a knife or skewer to swirl lightly through—don’t overdo it as we want beautiful layers!

Step 9: Finish Layering

Pour in the rest of your batter then top with remaining apples. Again swirl gently to mix but leave some pretty streaks visible! Sprinkle that delicious cinnamon-sugar topping on top.

Step 10: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for about 45 to 55 minutes. Check if it’s done by inserting a toothpick; only moist crumbs should cling due to those soft apples inside!

Step 11: Cool & Glaze

Once baked, let it cool in the pan for about 15 – 20 minutes. While cooling, whisk together glaze ingredients until smooth. Once cooled completely on a rack, drizzle glaze generously over your warm bread—enjoy every bite!

Now you have all you need to create this delightful Cinnamon Apple Bread! I can’t wait for you to try it!

Pro Tips for Making Cinnamon Apple Bread

Baking this Cinnamon Apple Bread can be a delightful experience, and these tips will ensure that your loaf turns out perfectly every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your butter, eggs, and milk to room temperature helps create a smoother batter and ensures even mixing, resulting in a tender loaf.

• Don’t skip the apple prep: Chopping the apples into small pieces allows them to distribute evenly throughout the bread. This not only enhances flavor but also adds moisture to each slice.

• Swirl with care: When creating the beautiful cinnamon and apple swirl, remember that less is more. A few gentle swirls will give you a lovely marbling without overmixing the batter.

• Check for doneness: Since ovens vary, start checking your bread at the 45-minute mark. The toothpick test should yield a few moist crumbs but no wet batter—this ensures a perfectly baked loaf.

• Cool completely before slicing: Patience is key! Allowing your bread to cool completely helps it set up nicely, making it easier to slice without crumbling.

How to Serve Cinnamon Apple Bread

This Cinnamon Apple Bread is not just delicious; it’s also versatile! Whether enjoyed as breakfast or dessert, there are plenty of delightful ways to present this dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkling some chopped walnuts or pecans on top adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that complements the sweetness of the bread.

• Freshly whipped cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds an elegant touch and makes for a lovely contrast against the warm spice of the bread.

• Apple slices: Thin slices of fresh apple arranged on the side not only look beautiful but also echo the apple flavors in the bread.

Side Dishes

• Greek yogurt: A creamy side of Greek yogurt offers a tangy balance to the sweetness of the bread. It’s perfect for breakfast or brunch!

• Fruit salad: A light fruit salad featuring seasonal fruits brightens up your plate and adds refreshing contrast, making each bite feel light and vibrant.

• Tea or coffee: Pairing this bread with your favorite tea or coffee brings warmth and comfort. The cozy spices complement these beverages perfectly, making for an inviting afternoon treat.

• Vanilla ice cream: For a decadent dessert option, serve warm slices drizzled with glaze alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creaminess pairs beautifully with the spiced bread!

Now you’re all set to bake and serve up this delightful Cinnamon Apple Bread! Enjoy sharing it with friends and family—or keep it all to yourself (we won’t tell)!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cinnamon Apple Bread is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy its delightful flavors throughout the week. It’s a great option for breakfast or a sweet snack, and it stores beautifully!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the bread to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
• When ready to enjoy, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Place slices of bread on a baking sheet and warm for about 10 minutes.
• Alternatively, you can microwave individual slices for about 15-20 seconds.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe.

Can I use other types of apples in my Cinnamon Apple Bread?

Absolutely! While this recipe calls for your favorite apple variety, feel free to experiment with others such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji. Each will bring its unique flavor and sweetness.

How can I make my Cinnamon Apple Bread even more flavorful?

Enhancing your Cinnamon Apple Bread can be done by adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for crunch or including raisins or dried cranberries. You can also sprinkle some extra cinnamon sugar on top before baking for added sweetness.

Can I make this Cinnamon Apple Bread without eggs?

Yes! You can substitute each egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water). This will keep your bread moist and delicious.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this delightful Cinnamon Apple Bread! Its warm spices and sweet apple layers create a comforting treat that’s perfect for sharing with friends and family. Enjoy every slice and don’t hesitate to try variations that suit your taste. Happy baking!