Cinnamon Apple Bread Recipe

You'll love this cozy cinnamon apple bread recipe that combines the warmth of cinnamon with the sweetness of fresh apples in a moist, delicious loaf. It's easy to make with common ingredients like flour, sugar, butter, and apples. Start by mixing dry and wet ingredients separately, then gently fold them together. Add diced apples for bursts of flavor throughout. Bake at 350°F until golden brown and fragrant. This bread is perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, and it'll fill your kitchen with inviting aromas. Store it at room temperature or freeze slices for later. There's more to discover about this comforting treat!

Key Takeaways

• Combine 2 cups flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon for dry ingredients; mix separately with wet ingredients including eggs, oil, and sugar.
• Fold diced apples into the batter, using a mix of sweet and tart varieties for balanced flavor.
• Bake at 350°F (175°C) in a preheated oven, covering with foil if browning too quickly.
• Cool bread in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack for complete cooling.
• Enhance flavor with nuts, spices like nutmeg, or a simple glaze for added sweetness and texture.

History

Cinnamon apple bread's origins can be traced back to early American settlers who adapted European baking techniques to New World ingredients.

You'll find that these resourceful colonists combined their love for traditional bread with the abundance of apples in their new homeland. As they experimented, they discovered that cinnamon, a spice they'd brought from Europe, paired wonderfully with the tart sweetness of apples.

Over time, this delightful combination became a staple in American kitchens. You might be surprised to learn that during the 19th century, cinnamon apple bread wasn't just a treat – it was often a practical way to use up surplus apples and day-old bread. Families would slice leftover bread, layer it with apples and cinnamon, and bake it into a new, delicious creation.

Today, you can find countless variations of this classic recipe. Whether you're baking for your family or bringing a loaf to a potluck, cinnamon apple bread continues to warm hearts and homes.

It's a reflection of the ingenuity of early settlers and the enduring appeal of simple, comforting flavors.

Recipe

This delicious Cinnamon Apple Bread is the perfect fusion of comforting fall flavors. The moist, tender crumb is studded with chunks of sweet-tart apples and swirled with a fragrant cinnamon sugar ribbon, creating a heavenly aroma as it bakes.

Whether you're looking for a special breakfast treat, an afternoon snack, or a dessert to share with friends and family, this Cinnamon Apple Bread is sure to impress. It's easy to make and can be enjoyed warm from the oven or at room temperature, making it a versatile addition to your baking repertoire.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 medium apples, peeled and diced
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.

In a separate large bowl, cream the butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add the vanilla. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, alternating with the milk. Fold in the diced apples.

In a small bowl, mix the 1/4 cup sugar and cinnamon. Pour half the batter into the prepared pan, sprinkle with half the cinnamon sugar mixture, then add the remaining batter and top with the rest of the cinnamon sugar. Swirl with a knife and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

For the best results, use a mix of sweet and tart apples, such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp. This will provide a balanced flavor and texture. To prevent the apples from sinking to the bottom of the bread, toss them in a tablespoon of flour before adding them to the batter.

If the top of the bread is browning too quickly during baking, cover it loosely with aluminum foil. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

This bread can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week.

Cooking Steps

Let's get cooking!

You'll start by preheating your oven to 350°F and mixing your dry ingredients in one bowl.

In another bowl, you'll combine the wet ingredients, then slowly add the dry mix to create your batter.

Step 1. Preheat Oven to 350°F

To kick off this delicious recipe, start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This vital step guarantees your cinnamon apple bread bakes evenly and develops that perfect golden-brown crust.

While the oven's warming up, you'll have time to prep your ingredients and mix the batter.

Don't worry if your oven takes a while to reach the right temperature. It's better to wait a few extra minutes than to pop your bread into a cool oven.

If you have an oven thermometer, now's a great time to use it. Place it in the center of the oven to double-check the temperature accuracy.

[DIRECTIONS]:

Step 2. Mix Dry Ingredients Together

Mixing the dry ingredients is an essential step in creating the perfect cinnamon apple bread.

You'll want to grab a large mixing bowl and start by measuring out your all-purpose flour. Don't forget to level it off for accuracy!

Next, add in your baking powder and salt. These ingredients will help your bread rise and enhance its flavor.

Now, it's time for the star of the show – cinnamon! Measure out the ground cinnamon and add it to your dry mix.

If you're feeling adventurous, you can even add a pinch of nutmeg for extra warmth.

Use a whisk or a fork to thoroughly combine all these ingredients. Make sure there aren't any lumps or pockets of spices.

Step 3. Mix Wet Ingredients Separately

Now that you've prepared the dry ingredients, it's time to focus on the wet mixture. This step is essential for creating a moist and flavorful bread that'll delight your family and friends.

In a large bowl, crack two eggs and whisk them until they're well beaten. Next, add 1/2 cup of vegetable oil and 1/2 cup of applesauce. The oil adds richness, while the applesauce keeps the bread tender and reduces the overall fat content. Mix these ingredients thoroughly.

Now, pour in 1 cup of granulated sugar and 1/4 cup of brown sugar. The combination of these sugars will give your bread a lovely caramel-like sweetness. Stir until the sugars are fully incorporated and the mixture looks smooth.

Lastly, add 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract for a warm, aromatic flavor that complements the apples and cinnamon perfectly. Give everything a final whisk to make certain all the wet ingredients are well combined.

Your wet mixture is now ready to be added to the dry ingredients. This careful preparation will result in a delicious, homemade treat that's sure to bring smiles to those you serve.

Step 4. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

A crucial moment in bread-making has arrived: combining the wet and dry ingredients.

It's time to bring your mixtures together and create the foundation for your delicious cinnamon apple bread. Take your bowl of wet ingredients and pour it into the larger bowl containing the dry mixture. Using a spatula or wooden spoon, gently fold the two together.

Don't overmix! Stir just until you can't see any more dry flour.

As you're combining, you'll notice the batter start to come together. It might look a bit lumpy, but that's okay! Those little pockets of flour will disappear as the bread bakes.

If you're feeling adventurous, this is the perfect time to fold in some extras. Chopped nuts, raisins, or even chocolate chips can add a fun twist to your bread.

Step 5. Fold in Apple Chunks

Once your batter is ready, it's time to introduce the star of the show: the apple chunks. Gently fold them into the mixture using a spatula or wooden spoon.

Don't overmix – you want to preserve those lovely apple pieces throughout your bread. As you fold, imagine how delicious your finished bread will be, filled with juicy apple bites.

Aim for an even distribution of apple chunks throughout the batter. This guarantees that every slice will have that perfect balance of moist bread and fruity goodness.

If you're feeling adventurous, you can add some extras at this stage. A handful of chopped walnuts or pecans can add a nice crunch.

Or, try tossing in some raisins for extra sweetness. Just remember, a little goes a long way!

Once you're happy with the apple distribution, give the batter one final, gentle stir. Your mixture should look thick and studded with apple pieces.

It's now ready to go into your prepared loaf pan. Smooth the top with your spatula, and you're all set for baking!

Final Thoughts

This cinnamon-apple sensation is a must-try for any home baker. You'll love how it fills your kitchen with the warm, comforting aroma of autumn. It's perfect for sharing with family, friends, or neighbors, making it an ideal treat for gatherings or as a thoughtful gift.

Remember, you can customize this recipe to suit your taste. Try different apple varieties or add some chopped nuts for extra crunch. Don't be afraid to experiment with spices, too. A pinch of nutmeg or allspice can add an interesting twist to the flavor profile.

If you're looking to make this bread even more special, consider topping it with a simple glaze or streusel before baking. These little touches can elevate your creation from delicious to absolutely irresistible.

Lastly, keep in mind that homemade bread like this is best enjoyed fresh. However, if you have leftovers, they'll keep well for a few days when stored properly. You can even freeze slices for a quick and tasty snack later on.

Happy baking!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Substitute the Cinnamon With Other Spices?

You can get creative with your spice choices. While cinnamon is a classic, try nutmeg, allspice, or cardamom for a unique twist.

Ginger adds a warm, zesty flavor, while cloves bring a rich, aromatic touch. You might even experiment with a blend of these spices.

Just remember to adjust the amount based on the spice's intensity. Don't be afraid to mix and match until you find your perfect combination.

It's all about making the recipe your own!

How Long Does Homemade Cinnamon Apple Bread Stay Fresh?

Your homemade cinnamon apple bread will stay fresh for about 3-4 days at room temperature if you store it properly.

Be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or keep it in an airtight container. If you want it to last longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week.

For the best flavor and texture, though, try to enjoy it within the first few days. It's so delicious, we bet it won't last long anyway!

Is It Possible to Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?

Yes, it's absolutely possible to make this recipe gluten-free!

Imagine serving a warm slice to your gluten-sensitive friend – they'll be thrilled. You can easily swap regular flour for a gluten-free all-purpose blend.

Many bakers have had great success with brands like Bob's Red Mill or King Arthur Flour.

Don't forget to check your other ingredients, like baking powder, to verify they're gluten-free too.

With a few simple changes, you'll be sharing your delicious bread with everyone, regardless of dietary restrictions.

Can I Use Different Types of Apples in This Recipe?

You can definitely use different types of apples in this recipe.

It's a great way to experiment with flavors and textures. Try mixing sweet and tart varieties like Honeycrisp and Granny Smith for a balanced taste.

Firmer apples like Fuji or Gala hold their shape well during baking.

Remember, each apple type will bring its own unique flavor to your bread.

Don't be afraid to get creative and find your favorite combination.

Happy baking!

What's the Best Way to Store Leftover Cinnamon Apple Bread?

Just like a warm hug on a chilly day, your cinnamon apple bread deserves the right care to stay delicious!

You'll want to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in an airtight container. Keep it at room temperature for up to 3 days, or pop it in the fridge for up to a week.

If you've got a big batch, you can even freeze slices for up to 3 months. Enjoy your cozy treat anytime!