There’s something magical about the smell of apple cinnamon bread wafting through your home. It’s like a warm hug from grandma, with sweet apples and spicy cinnamon dancing together in perfect harmony. Picture this: you stroll into your kitchen, and as soon as you open the oven door, an aroma hits you that could make even the grumpiest cat purr. This isn’t just any loaf; it’s a slice of heaven that has the power to turn your day around.
I remember the first time I baked this delightful treat. My entire family gathered around, eyes wide like kids in a candy store, waiting for that first bite. Each slice was met with gasps of delight, and before I knew it, half the loaf had vanished! Whether it’s a cozy family breakfast or a sweet addition to your holiday feast, apple cinnamon bread is the kind of dish that creates memories worth cherishing.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This delicious apple cinnamon bread is easy to prepare and perfect for all skill levels
- The flavor is perfectly balanced between sweet apples and warm spices
- Its golden-brown crust is irresistible, making it a showstopper on any table
- Enjoy it fresh for breakfast or toast it later for an afternoon snack
I once made this recipe for a brunch gathering, and my friends couldn’t stop raving about it for weeks afterward.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
All-Purpose Flour: Use regular all-purpose flour; it’s versatile and gives the bread structure.
Granulated Sugar: A little sweetness balances the spiciness of cinnamon; feel free to adjust based on your taste.
Baking Powder: This helps our dough rise beautifully, giving it that fluffy texture we love.
Cinnamon: The star of the show! Freshly ground cinnamon adds warmth and richness to each slice.
Salt: Just a pinch elevates all flavors in baking; don’t skip this essential ingredient!
Apple Sauce: Adds moisture and natural sweetness; opt for unsweetened for better control over sugar levels.
Eggs: These help bind everything together; use large eggs for best results.
Diced Apples: Choose firm varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for texture and flavor contrast.
Vanilla Extract: A splash adds depth to the overall flavor profile; use pure extract if possible!
Chopped Nuts (optional): Walnuts or pecans add crunch and extra flavor; they are completely optional but highly recommended!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat That Oven!: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a loaf pan with parchment paper so nothing sticks!
Mix Dry Ingredients: : In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt until well combined. This ensures an even distribution of flavors throughout your bread.
Combine Wet Ingredients: : In another bowl, mix together applesauce, eggs, vanilla extract, and diced apples until smooth. The wet mixture should be fragrant with vanilla goodness!
Combine Mixtures: : Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients using a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix; we want our bread fluffy!
Add Nuts (Optional): : If using nuts, fold them in gently now. Their crunchy texture will create delightful surprises in every bite!
Bake Away!: Pour batter into your prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes or until golden brown. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean—like magic!
Let it cool slightly before slicing because impatience might lead to some hot finger situations!
You Must Know
- Apple cinnamon bread is not just a delight for your taste buds; it fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma
- This recipe is perfect for breakfast or as a cozy snack
- The combination of warm spices and sweet apples creates a comforting treat that everyone loves
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by mixing the dry ingredients before adding wet ones to ensure even distribution of flavors. Prepare your apples by peeling and chopping them into small pieces, then fold them in gently to avoid turning them into mush.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out regular flour for whole wheat or gluten-free varieties to suit your dietary needs. You can also add nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and flavor, or throw in some raisins for a chewy surprise.
Storing & Reheating
Store your apple cinnamon bread tightly wrapped at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze slices individually and reheat in the toaster or microwave when ready to enjoy.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use fresh apples for the best flavor; old apples can turn mushy and lose their sweetness
- Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing to prevent it from crumbling
- A sprinkle of sugar on top before baking adds a delightful crunch and sweetness
Sharing my first attempt at apple cinnamon bread always brings a smile. My family couldn’t get enough! They insisted I make it every weekend, claiming it was better than any store-bought treat.
FAQ
Can I use frozen apples in this recipe?
Yes, you can, but fresh apples yield better texture and flavor.
How do I know when my bread is done baking?
Insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean, it’s ready!
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water and use plant-based milk.
Apple Cinnamon Bread
Apple cinnamon bread is a delightful treat that fills your home with the warm aromas of sweet apples and fragrant cinnamon. This easy recipe combines simple ingredients to create a fluffy, golden loaf that’s perfect for breakfast or as a cozy snack. Each slice offers a comforting mix of flavors, making it a cherished addition to any meal or gathering.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast/Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup diced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line a loaf pan with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
- In another bowl, mix applesauce, eggs, vanilla extract, and diced apples until smooth.
- Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined; avoid over-mixing.
- If using nuts, gently fold them into the batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow it to cool slightly before slicing.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
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