Cinnamon Apple Bread

If you’re looking for a cozy treat that fills your home with the sweet aroma of fall, then my Cinnamon Apple Bread is just what you need! This recipe has been a favorite in my family for years, perfect for everything from busy weeknights to delightful weekend brunches. The tender loaf features a scrumptious swirl of brown sugar and apples, topped off with a delightful cinnamon glaze that adds just the right amount of sweetness. It’s truly a comforting addition to any gathering or simply enjoyed on a quiet afternoon.

What makes this Cinnamon Apple Bread so special is how easy it is to make. You don’t need any fancy equipment or hard-to-find ingredients—just simple, wholesome items you probably already have in your kitchen. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to use up those apples you might have lying around!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have this delicious bread ready in no time.
• Family-friendly appeal: Everyone loves the warm flavors of cinnamon and apples—perfect for kids and adults alike!
• Make-ahead convenience: Bake it ahead of time and enjoy it fresh throughout the week.
• Delicious flavor: The combination of sweet apples and warm spices creates an irresistible taste that will keep you coming back for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this delightful Cinnamon Apple Bread, you’ll need some basic ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:

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

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to make it your own with these tasty ideas:

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
• Substitute fruits: Try using pears or even cranberries instead of apples for a different twist.
• Use whole wheat flour: For a heartier version, swap out half of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour.
• Create a spiced version: Add in nutmeg or cloves along with the cinnamon for an extra layer of warmth.

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 will help ensure your bread comes out perfectly without sticking.

Step 2: Whisk Together Dry Ingredients

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This step is crucial as it evenly distributes the leavening agents throughout the flour, ensuring your bread rises beautifully.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract together on medium-high speed until smooth and pale (about 3-4 minutes). Scrape down the sides as needed so everything combines well—this adds air into your batter for a light texture!

Step 4: Incorporate Eggs

Beat in the eggs one at a time until fully incorporated. This adds richness to your bread and helps bind all your ingredients together.

Step 5: Mix in Dry Ingredients and Milk

With the mixer on low speed, add about half of the dry mixture followed by half of the milk. Repeat this process with the remaining ingredients until everything is combined smoothly.

Step 6: Prepare Apple Filling

In another bowl, combine brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and chopped apples. This fruity mixture will create lovely pockets of flavor throughout your bread—don’t skip this step!

Step 7: Make Topping Mixture

In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar and cinnamon for that delicious topping that will crown your bread.

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 to gently swirl through it. Don’t overdo it; you want beautiful layers!

Step 9: Repeat Layers

Pour in the remaining batter followed by the rest of the apple mixture. Swirl once more with a knife before sprinkling generously with cinnamon-sugar topping.

Step 10: Bake It Up!

Bake for about 45 to 55 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center. This timing can vary based on your oven—keep an eye on it!

Step 11: Cool & Glaze

Let your bread cool in the pan for about 15-20 minutes before transferring it to a cooling rack. While it’s cooling down, whisk together glaze ingredients and drizzle over once completely cooled.

Enjoy every slice of this delightful Cinnamon Apple Bread! It’s sure to bring smiles all around!

Pro Tips for Making Cinnamon Apple Bread

Making a perfect Cinnamon Apple Bread is a delightful experience, and with a few handy tips, you can elevate your baking game even further!

• Choose the right apples: Opt for firm varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. Their tartness balances the sweetness of the bread and keeps them from turning mushy during baking.

• Don’t skip the swirling: Lightly swirl the apple mixture into the batter instead of fully mixing it in. This creates beautiful layers and ensures that those delightful fruit flavors shine through in every slice.

• Check your oven temperature: Ovens can vary, so invest in an oven thermometer if you don’t have one. Baking at the correct temperature ensures even cooking and prevents burnt edges while leaving the middle undercooked.

• Cool before slicing: Allowing your bread to cool completely helps it set up nicely, making slicing easier and preventing a crumbly mess. Patience pays off here!

• Storage secrets: Keep any leftover bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its moisture and flavor for days.

How to Serve Cinnamon Apple Bread

When it comes to serving your warm, fragrant loaf of Cinnamon Apple Bread, presentation matters! Here are some delightful ideas to make it even more special.

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some toasted walnuts or pecans on top of your glaze for added crunch and flavor.
• Fresh herbs: A sprig of mint or thyme adds a pop of color and an unexpected freshness that contrasts beautifully with the sweet bread.
• Extra cinnamon: A light dusting of ground cinnamon over the glaze gives it a lovely visual appeal and enhances that warm spice aroma.

Side Dishes

• Greek yogurt: A dollop of creamy Greek yogurt adds a tangy contrast to the sweetness of the bread, making it perfect for breakfast or a snack.
• Fruit salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits brightens up your plate and complements the flavors in the bread beautifully.
• Hot tea: Pairing your Cinnamon Apple Bread with a warm cup of spiced tea creates a cozy atmosphere, perfect for enjoying during chilly fall afternoons.
• Cinnamon butter: Whip together softened butter with cinnamon and sugar for spreading on warm slices. It’s a decadent addition that will leave everyone asking for more.

Enjoy baking, sharing, and savoring this delicious Cinnamon Apple Bread with family and friends!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cinnamon Apple Bread is not only a delightful treat but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it in advance, allowing you to enjoy its deliciousness throughout the week.

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 and then in aluminum foil.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
• To thaw, leave it at room temperature for several hours or overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Remove the bread from any wrapping and place it on a baking sheet.
• Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through, or slice and toast individual pieces if you prefer.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Cinnamon Apple Bread that you might find helpful!

Can I make Cinnamon Apple Bread without eggs?

Yes! You can substitute eggs with unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed mixture (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water equals one egg). This will keep your bread moist while avoiding eggs.

How do I achieve a perfect swirl in my Cinnamon Apple Bread?

To get that beautiful swirl, be gentle when swirling the apple mixture into the batter. Use a knife or skewer to create light swirls—avoid overmixing so that the layers remain distinct.

What makes this Cinnamon Apple Bread special?

The combination of fresh apples, brown sugar, and a hint of cinnamon creates a warm, comforting flavor profile that’s perfect for any occasion. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make!

Can I use different types of apples for this recipe?

Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples give a nice tartness, feel free to experiment with varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for a sweeter taste. Each will bring its own unique flavor to your bread.

Final Thoughts

This Cinnamon Apple Bread is truly special—a delightful blend of flavors that brings warmth and comfort every time you slice into it. I hope you enjoy making this recipe as much as I do! Whether it’s for breakfast, dessert, or just because you deserve something sweet, this bread has got you covered. Happy baking, and may your kitchen be filled with wonderful aromas!