Name: Apple Cinnamon Bread
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 70 min
Total time: 120 min
Ingredients: 1.5 cups peeled & chopped apples ((1/2 inch chunks; about 2 medium apples)); 1/3 cup brown sugar (packed); 1.5 teaspoons ground cinnamon; 1.75 cups all-purpose flour ((spooned & leveled)); 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 0.5 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 0.5 teaspoon baking soda; 0.25 teaspoon salt; 0.5 cup unsalted butter ((softened to room temperature)); 0.75 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs ((at room temperature)); 1/3 cup unsweetened applesauce ((at room temperature)); 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 0.5 cup whole milk ((at room temperature))

Introduction to Apple Cinnamon Bread

There's something incredibly cozy about the aroma of apple cinnamon bread wafting through your kitchen. This delightful treat combines the warmth of spices with the juicy sweetness of apples, making it a must-try for any home baker. Whether you're enjoying it as a breakfast option, a snack, or a dessert, this bread has a way of making any moment feel special.

Why Apple Cinnamon Bread is a Must-Try

This scrumptious bread is not just about delicious flavors; it’s also remarkably easy to whip up, even for novice bakers! The ingredients are generally pantry staples, so you can get started without a special trip to the grocery store. You’ll need apples, brown sugar, and a few aromatic spices like cinnamon and nutmeg.

Moreover, the versatility of apple cinnamon bread is a bonus. You can enjoy it plain, slathered with butter, or even turned into a delightful French toast. Plus, it's an excellent way to use up any extra apples you may have lying around—no waste here!

If you're looking for a delicious comfort food that’ll impress your friends and family, or just need to satisfy a craving, this recipe is definitely one you shouldn’t overlook. So, let’s dive into making this seasonal favorite!

Ingredients for Apple Cinnamon Bread

Fresh Apples and Spices

To make your homemade apple cinnamon bread truly shine, the right apples and spices are essential. Choose about 1 and ½ cups of peeled and chopped apples—about two medium-sized ones—and you’ll want to go for varieties like Granny Smith for that perfect balance of tartness, or sweet options like Honeycrisp for added flavor. Additionally, don’t shy away from the aromatic power of spices. With 1 and ½ teaspoons of ground cinnamon and ⅓ cup of packed brown sugar, your bread will burst with delightful sweetness and warmth.

Batter Essentials

Next up is the batter! You’ll need 1 and ¾ cups of all-purpose flour as the base, complemented by a mix of baking powder, baking soda, and a pinch of salt for perfect rise and flavor. Cream together ½ cup of unsalted butter with ¾ cup of granulated sugar, then blend in two large eggs, ⅓ cup of unsweetened applesauce, and a splash of pure vanilla extract. Finally, a touch of whole milk ties everything together, creating a moist and flavorful batter that wraps those apples in cozy delight. Ready to bake? Let’s bring this recipe to life!

Preparing Apple Cinnamon Bread

Making delicious apple cinnamon bread is a delightful way to fill your home with the warm and inviting aroma of baked goods. This process brings simple ingredients together to create a satisfying treat that’s perfect for breakfast or dessert. Let's walk through the steps to whip up this heartwarming bread!

Gather Your Ingredients

Before you start baking, it's essential to have everything on hand. For the perfect apple cinnamon bread, you will need:

For the Apples:
1 and ½ cups of peeled and chopped apples (about 2 medium apples)
⅓ cup packed brown sugar
1 and ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
For the Batter:
1 and ¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
¾ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs (room temperature)
⅓ cup unsweetened applesauce (room temperature)
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
½ cup whole milk (room temperature)

Having everything ready helps to streamline the baking process. Remember, fresh ingredients lead to the best results!

Prepare the Apple Mixture

Start by mixing the prepared apples with brown sugar and ground cinnamon in a bowl. Allow this mixture to sit while you combine other ingredients. This will help the apples release their juices and enhance their flavor.

Whisk the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine all the dry ingredients: flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk them together to ensure they are evenly distributed. This is an important step, as it contributes to the overall texture of the apple cinnamon bread.

Cream the Butter and Sugar

Using a handheld or stand mixer, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy—about 3 minutes. Add in the eggs, followed by the applesauce and vanilla extract. One tip: don’t worry if the mixture looks a bit chunky; that’s perfectly normal!

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Now, it's time to bring the wet and dry ingredients together. Gradually add the dry mixture to your wet ingredients on low speed, and once they’re combined, carefully stir in the milk. You want to avoid overmixing; just combine until you can no longer see flour.

Assemble the Bread

Pour half of the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Top it with the apple mixture, allowing any remaining cinnamon and brown sugar juices to drizzle down. Finish with the remaining batter, then use a knife to gently swirl the mixture together. This swirl will create delicious pockets of flavor throughout your bread!

Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C), and bake the apple cinnamon bread for 60 to 75 minutes. Be sure to cover the top loosely with aluminum foil after 30 minutes to prevent over-browning. When a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, your bread is done. Allow it to cool completely in the pan before slicing—trust us, it will be much easier to cut!

Enjoy this delectable apple cinnamon bread, and share it with friends and family. Perfect with a cup of coffee or tea, it’s bound to become a favorite in your home!

Variations on Apple Cinnamon Bread

Adding Nuts and Dried Fruits

To enhance the flavor and texture of your apple cinnamon bread, consider mixing in chopped nuts or dried fruits. Walnuts, pecans, or almonds can provide a delightful crunch, while adding a handful of raisins or dried cranberries can introduce a lovely sweetness. Not only do these additions boost the nutritional value, but they also create an irresistible medley of flavors. Just fold them into the batter before pouring it into your loaf pan for an easy upgrade.

Glazing with a Sweet Icing

For an indulgent finish, drizzle a simple sweet icing over your apple cinnamon bread. Just mix powdered sugar with a splash of milk or a favorite flavored extract until smooth. A touch of vanilla or almond extract can take the glaze up a notch! Once your bread has cooled, pour the icing on top to create a beautiful, glossy finish that not only looks stunning but adds a sweet contrast to the warm spices in the bread. Consider adding this twist for a special brunch or festive occasion!

Baking Notes for Apple Cinnamon Bread

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your apple cinnamon bread is turning out too dry, consider reducing the baking time or adding a bit more applesauce for moisture. On the flip side, if it’s too dense, ensure you’re not overmixing the batter—just combine until moistened for that perfect texture. If you notice your apples sinking, try tossing them in a little flour before mixing into the batter to keep them suspended.

Storage Tips for Freshness

To keep your apple cinnamon bread fresh, store it at room temperature in an airtight container for up to two days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week. You can also freeze individual slices for up to three months—just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Thaw overnight in the fridge for a delicious treat ready to enjoy! For more on proper bread storage, check out this guide from Sally's Baking Addiction.

Serving Suggestions for Apple Cinnamon Bread

Perfect Pairings for Enjoyment

This delicious apple cinnamon bread pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments. For a delightful breakfast, try slathering it with cream cheese or butter. A dollop of Greek yogurt on the side adds a creamy tang, which complements the bread's sweetness. For a heartier option, serve it alongside crispy Turkey Bacon or Chicken Ham, making it a satisfying brunch meal. Pair it with a steaming cup of tea or coffee to elevate those cozy morning vibes—try a spiced chai or foamy cappuccino!

Creative Ways to Serve Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover apple cinnamon bread, why not transform it?

Toast it up: Pop a slice in the toaster for a deliciously crunchy treat.
French toast: Dip slices in a mixture of eggs and milk, then cook them on a skillet for a flavorful twist on classic French toast.
Bread pudding: Use it as the base for a decadent bread pudding—imagine it baked with a cinnamon custard and drizzled with caramel sauce.

These ideas keep the flavor alive and make sure nothing goes to waste!

Time Breakdown for Apple Cinnamon Bread

Preparation Time

Preparing your ingredients and mixing the batter will take about 20 minutes. This includes peeling and chopping the apples, measuring out your ingredients, and getting everything mixed together.

Baking Time

Bake your delicious apple cinnamon bread for 60 to 75 minutes. Keep an eye on it—every oven is a bit different! To ensure it’s done, a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.

Total Time

All in all, you’re looking at about 1 hour and 40 minutes from start to finish, which includes both preparation and baking time. This makes it a perfect weekend project! Enjoy the warm, inviting aroma wafting through your kitchen—it's the best part!

For tips on properly measuring ingredients, check out this guide.

Nutritional Facts for Apple Cinnamon Bread

Calories per Slice

Each slice of apple cinnamon bread contains approximately 190 calories, making it a delightful treat without the guilt. Whether you're enjoying it for breakfast or as an afternoon snack, this bread boasts a satisfying flavor profile that's both indulgent and mindful.

Key Nutrients

This scrumptious bread is not just tasty; it’s packed with beneficial nutrients:

Fiber: Apples bring natural fiber, aiding in digestion.
Vitamins: Rich in Vitamin C from the apples, supporting your immune system.
Antioxidants: Cinnamon adds beneficial antioxidants, promoting overall health.

Making apple cinnamon bread is an easy way to enjoy a delicious recipe while infusing your diet with wholesome ingredients. For a deeper dive into nutritional values, check out resources from the USDA or Mayo Clinic to better understand the benefits of your favorite foods.

FAQs about Apple Cinnamon Bread

Can I freeze Apple Cinnamon Bread?

Absolutely! Freezing apple cinnamon bread is a fantastic way to preserve its deliciousness for future enjoyment. Simply let the loaf cool completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and then place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It can stay frozen for up to three months! To enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bring it to room temperature before slicing.

What types of apples are best for this recipe?

When making apple cinnamon bread, the choice of apples can significantly impact flavor and texture. For the best results, opt for firm, tart varieties like Granny Smith, which provide a nice contrast to the sweetness of the batter. Sweet apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji can also be excellent choices for a sweeter twist.

How do I know when the bread is done baking?

To check if your apple cinnamon bread is done, insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, you're good to go! Baking time may vary, so start checking around the 60-minute mark. If it needs more time, that’s totally fine—just loosely cover with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning.

Conclusion on Apple Cinnamon Bread

Baking this apple cinnamon bread is a delightful experience that fills your kitchen with warmth and sweet aromas. Perfect for breakfast or a cozy afternoon snack, this bread combines the perfect balance of fluffy texture and fruity flavor. Enjoy every slice, and don't forget to share with friends!