Apple Cinnamon Bread

Byjessica
Deliciously baked Apple Cinnamon Bread with slices showing apple and cinnamon swirls

Apples and cinnamon create a delightful marriage of flavors that transforms a simple loaf of bread into a comforting treat. Imagine a warm slice fresh from the oven, the aroma of baked apples mingling with the sweet scent of cinnamon. This Apple Cinnamon Bread is perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert, offering both warmth and satisfaction. With its soft texture and sweetly spiced flavor, it will quickly become a favorite in your household.

Recipe Information

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 60-70 minutes
  • Total Time: 80-90 minutes
  • Servings: 8 servings
  • Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

  • Calories per serving: 220
  • Protein: 3g
  • Carbohydrates: 34g
  • Fat: 9g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 15g
  • Sodium: 150mg

Why Make This Apple Cinnamon Bread

Making Apple Cinnamon Bread brings not only a fantastic flavor but also a slice of nostalgia. It’s an easy recipe that captures the essence of fall but can be enjoyed year-round. The crispness of apples combined with the warmth of cinnamon creates a sweet, fragrant loaf that can be served warm or toasted. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to use up any leftover apples you may have. This bread is not just a recipe; it’s a cozy, delicious experience!

How to Make Apple Cinnamon Bread

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk
  • 1 cup peeled and diced apples

Directions:

### Step 1: Preparation

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan with butter or cooking spray to ensure your bread comes out easily after baking.

### Step 2: Mixing Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients first ensures even distribution of the baking soda and spices throughout your bread.

### Step 3: Creaming Butter and Sugar

In a separate larger bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the batter, helping the bread to rise properly.

### Step 4: Incorporating Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure to fully incorporate each egg before adding the next. Then stir in the vanilla extract, which adds a lovely depth of flavor to your bread.

### Step 5: Combining Ingredients

Add the flour mixture alternately with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the flour. Mix until just combined; it’s okay if the batter is slightly lumpy. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf.

### Step 6: Adding Apples

Gently fold in the diced apples, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter. The apples will add moisture and a sweet bite to every slice.

### Step 7: Pouring into Pan

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula to ensure an even bake.

### Step 8: Baking

Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on the bread in the last few minutes to prevent over-browning.

### Step 9: Cooling

Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

How to Serve Apple Cinnamon Bread

This bread is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Serve it warm, straight from the oven, with a pat of butter for a comforting breakfast. For an afternoon snack, pair it with a cup of tea or coffee. You can even toast slices and drizzle them with honey or maple syrup for a delicious dessert option!

How to Store Apple Cinnamon Bread

To keep your Apple Cinnamon Bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and freeze it for up to 3 months. Just thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Expert Tips for Perfect Apple Cinnamon Bread

  • Choose firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for best flavor and texture.
  • Ensure your butter is softened at room temperature for easy creaming.
  • Don’t skip the buttermilk; it adds tenderness and a slight tang to the bread.
  • For added texture, consider sprinkling some nuts or raisins into the batter.
  • If your bread starts to brown too quickly, tent it with foil during baking.

Delicious Variations

  • Nutty Twist: Add a cup of walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture.
  • Dried Fruit: Substitute the diced apples with dried cranberries or raisins for a chewy stand-in.
  • Spiced Up: Incorporate nutmeg or allspice along with the cinnamon for a warm, spiced flavor.
  • Glazed: Drizzle a simple icing made of powdered sugar and milk on top after cooling for an extra sweet touch.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
    Yes, you can substitute up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added nutrients. The bread may be denser with whole wheat.

  • What kind of apples are best for baking?
    Firm apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Jonagold hold their shape well and offer a perfect sweet-tart balance when baked.

  • Can I make this bread without eggs?
    Absolutely! Replace the two eggs with 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce or a commercial egg replacer to keep it moist.

  • What can I do if the bread is too dry?
    If the bread turns out dry, next time consider adding an extra tablespoon of buttermilk or reducing the baking time slightly.

  • How can I tell when the bread is done baking?
    The bread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs; the top should be golden brown.

Conclusion

This Apple Cinnamon Bread is not just a recipe; it’s an experience that brings warmth and comfort to your kitchen. Its moist texture, sweet apple bits, and aromatic spices make every slice utterly delicious. Whether you savor it for breakfast or enjoy it with a cup of tea, this bread is bound to be a hit. Don’t hesitate to bring this delightful loaf into your home; your loved ones will surely appreciate it. Happy baking!

More Recipes