This Cinnamon Apple Bread is a delightful treat that blends the sweet flavors of apples and cinnamon in a tender loaf. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack, this bread is both comforting and satisfying. With its beautiful swirl of brown sugar and apple pieces, it offers a delicious twist that will impress everyone. The added glaze gives it an appealing finish, making it suitable for special occasions and everyday enjoyment.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of cinnamon and apples creates a warm, comforting taste that pleases everyone.
- Easy to Prepare: This recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
- Versatile Treat: Enjoy it as a breakfast option, dessert, or snack throughout the day.
- Perfectly Moist: The addition of apples keeps the bread moist while adding natural sweetness.
- Stunning Presentation: The swirl of cinnamon and apple not only tastes great but looks beautiful too.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into making your Cinnamon Apple Bread, gather your tools. Having everything ready ensures a smooth baking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer or handheld mixer
- Loaf pan (8.5 x 4.5 inches)
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Rubber spatula
- Cooling rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer or handheld mixer: These tools make mixing ingredients easy and ensure a smooth batter without much effort.
- Loaf pan: A quality loaf pan helps the bread bake evenly and maintain its shape.
- Cooling rack: Allows the bread to cool properly, preventing sogginess.
Ingredients
This Cinnamon Apple Bread features simple yet flavorful ingredients that come together beautifully.
Dry Ingredients
- 1-1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1-1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (1 stick)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
Cinnamon Apple Mixture
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar (packed)
- 1-1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 large apple (peeled, cored, and chopped into small pieces)
Topping Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Glaze Ingredients
- 3/4 cups confectioners’ sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons water
How to Make Cinnamon Apple Bread
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease and flour an 8.5 x 4.5 inch loaf pan to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set this mixture aside for later.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
Using a stand mixer or handheld mixer with the paddle attachment, beat the softened butter with granulated sugar and vanilla on medium-high speed for about 3-4 minutes until smooth and pale. Scrape down the sides as needed.
Step 4: Add Eggs
Beat in the eggs one at a time until fully incorporated into the mixture.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
With the mixer on low speed, add half of the dry ingredient mixture followed by half of the milk. Alternate adding the remaining dry ingredients and milk while mixing until combined.
Step 6: Prepare Apple Mixture
In another bowl, combine brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and chopped apples. Set this apple mixture aside.
Step 7: Make Topping Mixture
In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar and additional cinnamon for topping. Set aside.
Step 8: Layer Batter in Pan
Pour half of your batter into the prepared loaf pan. Top with half of your apple mixture. Lightly swirl with a knife or skewer without over-mixing for better presentation.
Step 9: Finish Layering
Pour remaining batter over the first layer followed by remaining apple mixture. Swirl again lightly with a knife or skewer in both directions. Sprinkle topping mixture on top.
Step 10: Bake
Bake for about 45 to 55 minutes or until a cake tester comes out clean with just a few moist crumbs attached due to soft apples in center.
Step 11: Cool & Glaze
Allow bread to cool in pan for about 15-20 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack. While cooling, whisk glaze ingredients together. Drizzle glaze over cooled bread before slicing completely.
This delicious Cinnamon Apple Bread serves up to ten people—perfect for sharing! Enjoy every slice filled with warmth and flavor!
How to Serve Cinnamon Apple Bread
Cinnamon Apple Bread is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether it’s for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack, this bread complements many flavors and occasions.
Breakfast Delight
- With Butter – Spread a little butter on a warm slice to enhance its rich flavor.
- Yogurt Parfait – Pair slices with Greek yogurt and fresh fruits for a nutritious start to your day.
Afternoon Snack
- Coffee Companion – Enjoy a slice with your favorite cup of coffee or tea for a comforting afternoon break.
- Nut Butter Spread – Top with almond or peanut butter for added protein and richness.
Dessert Option
- A La Mode – Serve warm slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert.
- With Whipped Cream – Drizzle slices with whipped cream and sprinkle some cinnamon for an extra touch of sweetness.
Gift Idea
- Homemade Treats – Wrap slices in cellophane or place them in a decorative box as a thoughtful gift for friends and family.
How to Perfect Cinnamon Apple Bread
Perfecting your Cinnamon Apple Bread will elevate it from good to great! Here are some essential tips:
- Use Fresh Apples – Opt for crisp apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp to ensure the best flavor and texture.
- Don’t Overmix – Mix just until combined to keep the bread tender; overmixing can lead to toughness.
- Check Doneness – Use a toothpick inserted into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached.
- Cool Before Slicing – Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing to help maintain its structure and prevent crumbling.
Best Side Dishes for Cinnamon Apple Bread
Cinnamon Apple Bread pairs well with several side dishes that can enhance your meal experience. Here are some of the best options:
- Scrambled Eggs – Fluffy scrambled eggs provide protein and balance the sweetness of the bread.
- Fresh Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and acidity to complement the sweet bread.
- Oatmeal – A bowl of warm oatmeal can make for a wholesome breakfast when served alongside slices of bread.
- Cheese Platter – A selection of cheeses offers savory notes that contrast nicely with the sweetness of the apple bread.
- Granola Bars – Crunchy granola bars serve as an easy grab-and-go option when paired with slices of bread.
- Smoothie Bowl – A vibrant smoothie bowl topped with nuts and seeds creates a colorful and nutritious pairing.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking Cinnamon Apple Bread can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Ignoring ingredient temperature: Using cold ingredients can lead to uneven mixing and a dense loaf. Always ensure butter and eggs are at room temperature before starting.
- Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can create a tough texture. Mix just until combined to keep your bread light and fluffy.
- Skipping the swirl: Not swirling the apple mixture properly can result in uneven flavor distribution. Gently swirl to achieve that perfect blend of cinnamon and apple in every slice.
- Not checking for doneness: Relying solely on baking time may lead to under or overbaked bread. Always test with a toothpick or cake tester for the best results.
- Forgetting to cool completely: Slicing too soon can cause the bread to crumble. Let it cool completely before cutting for clean slices.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days.
- Place parchment paper between slices to prevent sticking.
Freezing Cinnamon Apple Bread
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for up to 3 months.
- Label with the date for easy tracking.
Reheating Cinnamon Apple Bread
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F, wrap in foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 15-20 seconds.
- Stovetop: Warm slices in a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Cinnamon Apple Bread.
How can I add more flavor to my Cinnamon Apple Bread?
You can enhance the flavor by adding nuts such as walnuts or pecans, or by including additional spices like nutmeg or allspice.
Can I use different types of apples?
Yes! Varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well, providing a nice balance of tartness and sweetness in your Cinnamon Apple Bread.
How do I store leftover Cinnamon Apple Bread?
Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or freeze it for longer storage.
What can I substitute if I don’t have brown sugar?
You can substitute brown sugar with granulated sugar mixed with a bit of molasses (1 tablespoon of molasses per cup of granulated sugar) for a similar flavor profile.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can substitute butter with coconut oil and use flaxseed meal mixed with water as an egg replacement for a vegan version of Cinnamon Apple Bread.
Final Thoughts
This Cinnamon Apple Bread is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with nuts or other spices according to your taste preferences. Whether you enjoy it warm for breakfast or as a comforting dessert, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings. Give it a try!
Cinnamon Apple Bread
Cinnamon Apple Bread is a heartwarming treat that perfectly combines the sweet and spicy flavors of cinnamon and fresh apples in a moist, tender loaf. Ideal for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or dessert, this recipe is both comforting and versatile. The delightful swirl of brown sugar and apples creates an eye-catching presentation, while the glaze adds an irresistible finish. Whether served warm or at room temperature, each slice offers a cozy taste of autumn that everyone will love.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Serves about 10 slices
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1-1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1-1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar (divided)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1-1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon, divided
- 1 large apple, peeled and chopped
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for topping)
- 3/4 cups confectioners’ sugar
- 2 tablespoons water
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease an 8.5 x 4.5-inch loaf pan.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a mixer, cream together butter, granulated sugar, and vanilla until light. Add eggs one at a time until fully mixed.
- Gradually add dry ingredients alternating with milk until just combined.
- In another bowl, mix chopped apples with brown sugar and cinnamon.
- Pour half the batter into the pan, layer with half the apple mixture; swirl gently. Repeat layers and sprinkle topping on top.
- Bake for 45-55 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool in the pan before transferring to a rack; drizzle with glaze.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (75g)
- Calories: 205
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
