Cinnamon Apple Bread

There’s something magical about the smell of warm cinnamon and apples wafting through the kitchen. Cinnamon Apple Bread is one of those homey, comforting treats that fills your house with warmth and coziness, especially during fall and winter. This bread is packed with juicy, sweet apples and perfectly spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg, making it the ultimate treat for breakfast, snack time, or even dessert. The best part? It’s a straightforward recipe that doesn’t require any fancy techniques or ingredients, so it’s perfect for bakers of all skill levels.

I first came across this recipe on a chilly autumn day, when all I craved was something warm and comforting. The combination of cinnamon and apples instantly transported me to my childhood, where my grandma used to bake apple pies. This bread carries a similar warmth but in a loaf form that’s easy to slice and share.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

  • Easy to Make: With just a few basic ingredients, this bread comes together quickly without any need for special equipment.
  • Warm and Cozy: The cinnamon and nutmeg give it a comforting, spiced flavor that’s perfect for cooler weather.
  • Moist and Tender: Thanks to the applesauce and diced apples, the bread stays wonderfully moist and soft.
  • Versatile: You can enjoy it as is, or dress it up with a smear of butter, honey, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream if you’re feeling fancy.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup white sugar
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1 1/2 cups apples, peeled and diced (any variety like Granny Smith, Gala, or Honeycrisp will work)
  • 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional, but they add a nice crunch)

How to Make Cinnamon Apple Bread:

Step-by-Step Instructions:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a standard loaf pan (9×5 inch) with non-stick spray or butter and set aside.
  2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the applesauce, vegetable oil, brown sugar, white sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. The applesauce not only adds moisture but also cuts down on the need for excess oil or butter, making this a slightly healthier option.
  3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. The spices really bring out the flavor of the apples, and the baking soda/powder will give the bread its light, fluffy texture.
  4. Bring the Batter Together: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Avoid overmixing—this keeps the bread from becoming too dense. Once the batter is almost fully mixed, gently fold in the diced apples and walnuts if you’re using them. The apples will release their juices as the bread bakes, adding a lovely moist texture.
  5. Fill the Pan: Pour the batter into the greased loaf pan and use a spatula to smooth the top. You can sprinkle a little extra cinnamon sugar on top for a subtle sweet crunch (totally optional but highly recommended).
  6. Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The exact baking time may vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on it after the 50-minute mark.
  7. Cool and Serve: Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial, as it allows the bread to set properly. Slice and enjoy! Serve warm with a drizzle of honey or a pat of butter for an extra indulgent treat.

Helpful Tips:

  • Choose the Right Apples: For a balanced flavor, use a mix of tart and sweet apples like Granny Smith and Gala or Honeycrisp. This ensures the bread has the perfect apple flavor without being too sweet.
  • Avoid Overmixing: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until the flour disappears. Overmixing can make the bread tough.
  • Add Toppings: If you’re feeling creative, top the batter with some rolled oats, sliced almonds, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar before baking for an extra decorative touch.
  • Make it Gluten-Free: You can easily swap out the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend if needed.

Details:

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
  • Total Time: About 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: 1 loaf (about 8-10 slices)
  • Category: Baked Goods
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Notes:

  • Feel free to experiment with different spices! Adding a pinch of ground cloves or cardamom can give the bread a unique twist.
  • You can make this bread ahead of time. It stores well at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to a week.

Nutritional Information (per slice):

  • Calories: 270 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.5g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 22g

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I make this recipe vegan? Yes, you can substitute the eggs with flax eggs or use a store-bought egg replacer. To make flax eggs, combine 2 tablespoons of ground flaxseed with 6 tablespoons of water and let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

What kind of apples should I use? You can use any apple variety you prefer. Tart apples like Granny Smith give the bread a nice balance, but sweeter apples like Gala or Honeycrisp will make the bread more dessert-like.

Can I freeze this bread? Absolutely! Once the bread has fully cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat slices in the microwave or oven.

Storage Instructions:

Store any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep it in the refrigerator for up to a week. If freezing, make sure to wrap the bread well to prevent freezer burn. Thaw frozen slices in the microwave or allow them to come to room temperature naturally.

Related Recipes:

If you liked this recipe, you’ll definitely enjoy these other cozy, sweet treats:

Conclusion:

Cinnamon Apple Bread is the perfect recipe for when you’re craving something sweet and comforting, but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. The combination of warm spices, tender apples, and moist, soft bread makes this a winner for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast with your morning coffee or as an afternoon snack, this loaf will bring a little piece of autumn into your home year-round. Happy baking!

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Cinnamon Apple Bread


  • Author: Martha

Description

There’s something magical about the smell of warm cinnamon and apples wafting through the kitchen. Cinnamon Apple Bread is one of those homey, comforting treats that fills your house with warmth and coziness, especially during fall and winter. This bread is packed with juicy, sweet apples and perfectly spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg, making it the ultimate treat for breakfast, snack time, or even dessert. The best part? It’s a straightforward recipe that doesn’t require any fancy techniques or ingredients, so it’s perfect for bakers of all skill levels.

I first came across this recipe on a chilly autumn day, when all I craved was something warm and comforting. The combination of cinnamon and apples instantly transported me to my childhood, where my grandma used to bake apple pies. This bread carries a similar warmth but in a loaf form that’s easy to slice and share.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup white sugar
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1 1/2 cups apples, peeled and diced (any variety like Granny Smith, Gala, or Honeycrisp will work)
  • 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional, but they add a nice crunch)

Instructions

  • Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a standard loaf pan (9×5 inch) with non-stick spray or butter and set aside.
  • Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the applesauce, vegetable oil, brown sugar, white sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. The applesauce not only adds moisture but also cuts down on the need for excess oil or butter, making this a slightly healthier option.
  • Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. The spices really bring out the flavor of the apples, and the baking soda/powder will give the bread its light, fluffy texture.
  • Bring the Batter Together: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Avoid overmixing—this keeps the bread from becoming too dense. Once the batter is almost fully mixed, gently fold in the diced apples and walnuts if you’re using them. The apples will release their juices as the bread bakes, adding a lovely moist texture.
  • Fill the Pan: Pour the batter into the greased loaf pan and use a spatula to smooth the top. You can sprinkle a little extra cinnamon sugar on top for a subtle sweet crunch (totally optional but highly recommended).
  • Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The exact baking time may vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on it after the 50-minute mark.
  • Cool and Serve: Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial, as it allows the bread to set properly. Slice and enjoy! Serve warm with a drizzle of honey or a pat of butter for an extra indulgent treat.

Notes

  • Feel free to experiment with different spices! Adding a pinch of ground cloves or cardamom can give the bread a unique twist.
  • You can make this bread ahead of time. It stores well at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to a week.

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