Apple Bread Recipe
If you’re searching for a comforting, sweet treat that captures the essence of autumn, look no further than this delightful Apple Bread. It’s the kind of homemade goodness that fills your kitchen with the warm scent of cinnamon and freshly baked apples, inviting everyone to gather ’round. Moist, tender, and packed with chunks of real apples, this Apple Bread is perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even a cozy dessert. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, you’ll find this recipe easy to follow and incredibly rewarding.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Preparing this Apple Bread requires just a handful of simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together to create layers of flavor and texture. Each element plays a vital role in balancing sweetness, spice, and moisture for that perfect slice.
- Brown sugar: Adds deep caramel notes and a subtle molasses flavor that complements the apples beautifully.
- Ground cinnamon: Infuses the bread with warm, cozy spice that’s essential for that classic apple spice profile.
- Large eggs: Provide structure and richness while helping the bread rise.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter without overpowering the natural apple sweetness.
- Butter, melted: Brings moisture and a buttery richness that keeps the bread tender.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances all the other flavors with its sweet, fragrant touch.
- All-purpose flour: The base of the bread, giving it substance and a soft crumb.
- Baking powder and baking soda: Together, they ensure a light, fluffy texture with just the right amount of rise.
- Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors in the bread.
- Chopped apples: Fresh Pink Lady, Gala, or Honeycrisp apples lend a juicy crunch and natural tartness, making this Apple Bread truly special.
How to Make Apple Bread
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and preparing an 8 x 5 inch loaf pan with grease and flour, or line it with parchment paper. This ensures your Apple Bread releases easily after baking for perfect slices.
Step 2: Mix Brown Sugar and Cinnamon
In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar and cinnamon. This mixture not only adds a delicious swirled layer inside the bread but also creates a fragrant topping that caramelizes beautifully as it bakes.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
Whisk the eggs and granulated sugar in a large mixing bowl until well blended. Then stir in the melted butter and vanilla extract, creating a smooth, flavorful base for your batter.
Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients
Gently fold in the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix just until combined—the batter will be thick, which is perfect for holding the tender apple pieces suspended inside.
Step 5: Fold in the Apples
Carefully incorporate the chopped apples into the batter. These fruity bursts will keep the bread moist and add natural sweetness and texture with every bite.
Step 6: Layer and Swirl Sugar Mixture
Pour half of the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle about three-quarters of the cinnamon sugar over it. Then layer the remaining batter on top. Finally, sprinkle the rest of the cinnamon sugar and gently swirl it into the top layer with a knife or spoon to create that signature Apple Bread marbled effect.
Step 7: Bake Until Golden
Bake for 35 to 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top turns golden and a toothpick inserted comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. If the bread starts browning too quickly, tent a piece of foil over it for the last 10 to 15 minutes to keep it from overbaking.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
Patience is key! Let your Apple Bread cool completely before slicing so the flavors settle and each slice holds together perfectly. Then prepare to enjoy every wonderful bite.
How to Serve Apple Bread
Garnishes
Enhance your Apple Bread by topping it with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey for added sweetness and visual appeal. A little smear of butter or cream cheese is also a delicious way to add richness.
Side Dishes
Apple Bread pairs wonderfully with a cup of hot coffee or spiced tea to balance its sweetness. For a heartier option, serve it alongside a bowl of warm apple cider or even a creamy yogurt parfait topped with granola.
Creative Ways to Present
Why not turn your Apple Bread into a sweet breakfast sandwich by layering slices with cream cheese and thinly sliced apples? Or cube the bread and toast it lightly to sprinkle over salads for a crunchy, fruity twist. The possibilities are as endless as your imagination!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover Apple Bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. The bread stays moist and flavorful, perfect for snacking any time.
Freezing
If you want to save it for later, wrap the bread well in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or on the counter to enjoy fresh-baked taste any day.
Reheating
Warm slices gently in a toaster oven or microwave for 15 to 20 seconds to bring back that just-baked softness. Add your favorite spread or keep it plain—either way, it tastes fantastic.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of apple for this Apple Bread?
Absolutely! While Pink Lady, Gala, and Honeycrisp apples are recommended for their balance of sweetness and tartness, feel free to use whatever apples you prefer or have on hand. Just make sure they’re peeled and chopped for the best texture.
Is it okay to add nuts or raisins to the recipe?
Yes! Adding chopped walnuts, pecans, or raisins can introduce a lovely crunch or chewiness. Just fold them into the batter along with the apples before baking.
Can I make this Apple Bread gluten-free?
You can swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend designed for baking. Just keep in mind that texture might vary slightly, but it will still be delicious.
How do I know when the Apple Bread is fully baked?
Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs clinging to it. Also, the top should be a light golden brown color.
Can this Apple Bread be made vegan?
To make it vegan, try replacing the eggs with flax eggs or a commercial egg replacer, and swap butter for a plant-based alternative. The flavor will still be wonderful, though texture may differ a bit.
Final Thoughts
This Apple Bread has quickly become one of my all-time favorite recipes to bake and share, especially when the seasons start to change and the smell of cinnamon fills the air. It’s simple, satisfying, and brings the cozy warmth of home right to your table. I encourage you to give it a try—you might just find yourself reaching for another slice before you know it!
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Apple Bread Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (about 10–12 slices) 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Apple Bread recipe is a moist, flavorful quick bread perfect for fall or any time you crave a sweet and spiced treat. Loaded with fresh chopped apples and cinnamon sugar swirls, it offers a delightful balance of sweetness and warmth in every bite. Ideal for breakfast, snack, or dessert, this easy-to-make loaf brings comforting flavors to your table.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Sugar and Spice Mixture
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
Wet Ingredients
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Fruit
- 2 cups chopped apples (Pink Lady, Gala, Honeycrisp – peeled and chopped, about 2 medium apples)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8 x 5 inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking, then set it aside.
- Make Cinnamon Sugar Mix: In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar and ground cinnamon. Set this aside for layering in the bread.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and combined.
- Add Butter and Vanilla: Stir in the melted butter and vanilla extract until the batter is even and silky.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: Add the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt to the wet ingredients. Mix gently until just combined to avoid overworking the batter. The batter will be thick.
- Fold in Apples: Carefully fold the chopped apples into the batter, distributing them evenly without breaking them down.
- Layer Batter and Cinnamon Sugar: Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle about three-quarters of the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the batter.
- Add Remaining Batter and Swirl: Spread the remaining batter gently over the cinnamon sugar layer. Sprinkle the remaining cinnamon sugar on top and use a knife or spoon to gently swirl the sugar into the batter to create a marbled effect.
- Bake the Bread: Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 45 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. If the bread browns too quickly, cover it loosely with foil for the last 10 to 15 minutes of baking.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the bread to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before slicing to ensure clean slices and enhance flavor.
Notes
- Use firm, crisp apples such as Pink Lady, Gala, or Honeycrisp for the best texture and flavor.
- Ensure the eggs are at room temperature to help create a smooth batter.
- Do not overmix the batter once flour is added to keep the bread tender.
- The cinnamon sugar swirl adds a lovely texture and taste, making sure to layer and swirl it carefully for best results.
- Store the apple bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- This bread freezes well; wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months.
- Adjust baking time slightly if using a different size or type of pan.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Snack, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 1/12 of loaf)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 15 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 4.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg
Keywords: apple bread, cinnamon apple bread, quick bread, fall recipes, apple dessert, moist apple loaf
