Nothing beats waking up to the sweet warmth of freshly baked Cinnamon Apple Bread wafting through your home. This loaf is a delightful blend of tart apple bites and cozy cinnamon spice, making it the perfect treat for breakfast, afternoon snacks, or a light dessert any time of day. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or giving quick breads a first try, this beginner-friendly recipe comes together in just 15 minutes of prep, 60 minutes of baking, and a short 10-minute rest before you slice in. With roughly 220 calories per slice, you can indulge in that tender crumb without a second thought. This easy bread recipe transforms simple pantry staples—flour, baking powder, baking soda, a pinch of salt, and a hint of ground cinnamon—into a heartwarming comfort food classic. Topped with a crisp cinnamon-sugar layer, each bite offers a delightful contrast of textures and flavors, making it a true hero among apple recipes and baked goods, especially when the air turns cool and fall flavors call your name.
Every time I slice into this loaf, I’m transported to cozy autumn afternoons spent with my grandmother, who always had a basket of crisp apples on the counter. Those memories inspired me to perfect this Cinnamon Apple Bread until it felt just right—bursting with juicy apple pockets and balanced cinnamon sweetness. Incorporating plain yogurt lends extra moisture, while optional nuts provide a satisfying crunch; I love toasted walnuts, but pecans are just as delicious. For a tangier twist, swap in Greek yogurt or sour cream, and feel free to toss in raisins or dried cranberries for a little chew. Playing around with Granny Smiths for a zesty bite or Honeycrisps for natural sweetness makes this recipe wonderfully versatile. And once that loaf emerges golden brown with its cinnamon-sugar crown, pairing a warm slice with a chai latte or a dollop of vanilla ice cream elevates it from simple snack to unforgettable treat.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN CINNAMON APPLE BREAD
To build this tender, flavorful loaf, we rely on a harmony of baking basics, warming spices, creamy dairy, and fresh fruit. Each ingredient plays an essential role, from structure and lift to moisture, sweetness, and texture.
- All-purpose flour
Provides the sturdy base and structure for the bread, giving it that perfect crumb that holds together while staying soft.
- Baking powder
Acts as the primary leavening agent, creating air pockets that keep the loaf light and fluffy without becoming dense.
- Baking soda
Works alongside the yogurt to create a gentle rise, balancing acidity and contributing to that tender mouthfeel.
- Salt
Enhances all the flavors in the loaf, ensuring the sweetness of the sugar and fruit doesn’t become one-dimensional.
- Ground cinnamon
Delivers the warm, aromatic spice that defines this recipe, infusing every bite with classic comforting notes.
- Granulated sugar
Sweetens the bread, helps with browning, and when creamed with butter, contributes to a light and tender texture.
- Unsalted butter
Adds rich flavor and moisture, creating a soft, pillowy crumb that melts in your mouth.
- Large eggs
Bind the ingredients together and provide structure, giving the loaf lift and stability.
- Vanilla extract
Introduces depth and rounds out the sweetness, elevating the overall flavor profile.
- Plain yogurt or sour cream
Infuses moisture and a subtle tang, resulting in an ultra-moist crumb and tender loaf.
- Peeled and diced apples
Offer juicy bursts of flavor and natural sweetness—Granny Smiths bring a tart edge, while Honeycrisps lean sweeter.
- Chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Introduce a crunchy contrast that plays beautifully against the tender cake-like interior.
- Cinnamon-sugar topping
Creates a crisp, sparkly crust on top that delivers an extra layer of texture and sweet spice in each bite.
HOW TO MAKE CINNAMON APPLE BREAD
Bringing this recipe to life is straightforward and rewarding. You’ll start by preparing your dry and wet components separately, then combine them just until they come together before folding in the star of the show—juicy apples. Follow these detailed steps for a foolproof loaf every time.
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan, ensuring the batter won’t stick as it bakes and rises.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon until evenly combined. Set aside to keep your dry mix ready.
3. In a large bowl, cream together the granulated sugar and softened butter using a hand mixer or stand mixer at medium speed. Mix until the mixture is pale and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
4. Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract until the batter looks smooth and glossy.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in three additions, alternating with the yogurt or sour cream. Mix on low speed and stop as soon as no streaks of flour remain to avoid overmixing.
6. Fold in the peeled and diced apples and chopped nuts (if using) with a spatula, distributing them evenly without deflating the batter.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula to ensure an even bake.
8. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar topping over the batter, covering the surface completely for a sweet, crunchy crust.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached.
10. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing, which helps maintain its tender crumb.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR CINNAMON APPLE BREAD
Once this loaf is ready, you’re in for a treat any time of day. From cozy mornings to elegant brunch spreads, Cinnamon Apple Bread shines in a variety of settings. Here are some favorite ways to serve each perfect slice:
- Simple Breakfast Slice
Warm a slice in the toaster oven until just heated through. Spread with a thin layer of softened butter or a drizzle of honey for a classic morning pick-me-up.
- Decadent Dessert Plate
Top a slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream and a light drizzle of caramel sauce. The contrast of warm bread and cold ice cream is pure bliss.
- Festive Brunch Platter
Arrange slices on a wooden board surrounded by fresh berries, sliced cheeses, and crisp turkey or ham. It makes a stunning holiday or weekend brunch centerpiece.
- Apple Bread French Toast
Dip slices in a classic egg-and-milk batter, fry until golden, and sprinkle with powdered sugar. Serve with warm maple syrup for a weekend brunch that feels extra special.
HOW TO STORE CINNAMON APPLE BREAD
Keeping this bread fresh ensures every slice tastes as wonderful as the first. Proper storage preserves moisture, flavor, and texture, whether you plan to enjoy it over a couple of days or prepare ahead for later snacking.
- Room Temperature (2–3 days)
Store completely cooled slices in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap. Keeping out air stops the loaf from drying, while moderate kitchen temperatures maintain a tender crumb.
- Refrigeration (up to 5 days)
Place cooled bread in a sealed container or tightly wrap with foil. Chilling can slightly firm up the crumb and mellow flavors, so bring slices to room temperature or warm briefly before serving.
- Freezing (up to 3 months)
Wrap individual slices or the entire loaf in plastic wrap, then place them in a resealable freezer bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge or warm a slice directly from frozen in the toaster oven.
- Portioning Ahead
For grab-and-go convenience, slice the loaf immediately after it cools. Wrap each slice in parchment or wax paper and store in an airtight container. This method makes breakfast or snacks effortless.
CONCLUSION
Cinnamon Apple Bread is more than just a baked good—it’s a celebration of simple ingredients, warm spices, and fresh fruit coming together in a loaf that comforts and delights. From a quick 15-minute prep to the irresistible crunch of that cinnamon-sugar topping, this recipe brings fall flavors into your kitchen any time of year. With beginner-friendly steps and flexible options like yogurt variations, nut choices, and alternative apple types, you can make it uniquely yours. Don’t forget to note that this loaf works beautifully as both a dessert and a breakfast treat, packing around 220 calories per slice and delivering a cozy, heartwarming experience. Feel free to print out this article or save it for later—there’s a handy FAQ below to guide you through any questions that might pop up when you bake.
If you give this Cinnamon Apple Bread a try, I’d love to hear how it turns out! Drop a comment with your favorite apple variety, any creative twists you added, or questions if you need help along the way. Your feedback means the world and helps fellow home cooks bake with confidence. Whether you’re sharing slices with family, serving it at a brunch, or enjoying a quiet moment with tea, I hope this recipe brings warmth and sweet memories to your kitchen. Happy baking!
Cinnamon Apple Bread
Description
This moist and flavorful bread combines the sweetness of apples with warm cinnamon, creating a cozy treat that’s perfect for breakfast or dessert. Every slice is a hug in a loaf!
Ingredients
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x5-inch loaf pan.
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In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. Set aside.
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In a large bowl, cream together the sugar and butter until light and fluffy.
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Beat in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
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Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the yogurt, and mix until just combined.
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Fold in the diced apples and nuts (if using) until evenly distributed.
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Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly.
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Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar topping evenly over the batter.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Note
- You can use Greek yogurt for a slightly tangier flavor.
- This bread can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature.
- For a sweeter option, drizzle with a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and water.
- Feel free to experiment with your favorite types of apples for different flavor profiles.
- Adding raisins or dried cranberries can enhance the texture and taste.
