Hey there, friends! Today, I’m gonna share a delightfully simple and comforting recipe that’s perfect for cozy days: apple bread. Who doesn’t love a fresh loaf of bread that fills your house with the sweet and spicy aroma of cinnamon and apples? I promise it’s easier than you think. This recipe’s a hit at my house, especially when the kids come running with their post-school appetites.
In fact, the other day, my little one tried to convince me that this bread qualifies as part of the five-a-day servings of fruits. While I’m not entirely sure it counts, it’s a fun way to sneak in some goodness! So, let’s dive into this delightful recipe that just might become your new favorite. And if you’re feeling adventurous, don’t miss my delicious Banana Bread Recipe.
Why you’ll love this recipe
You’ll adore this apple bread because it’s quick and easy to make. In under an hour, you can have this delicious smell wafting through your home. It’s perfect for breakfast, as a snack, or even dessert. Plus, it’s super moist thanks to the apples and has just the right amount of sweetness. Trust me, your family won’t be able to resist it!
Ingredients
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 cups chopped apples (Pink Lady, Gala, Honeycrisp – peeled and chopped, about 2 apples)
Step-by-step instructions
Prepare your oven and loaf pan
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease and flour an 8 x 5 inch loaf pan, or line it with parchment paper. This step’s key for easy bread removal later. Set your pan aside while you prepare the batter.
Mix the cinnamon sugar
In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar and cinnamon. Set it aside; you’ll be using this in a moment to create that yummy swirl.
Create the batter
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together your eggs and granulated sugar until they’re well combined. Then stir in the melted butter and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth.
Next, add the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix everything until it’s just combined. Remember, the batter will be thick—don’t worry, that’s exactly how we want it!
Fold in the apples
Now, gently fold in those apple chunks. Try to distribute them evenly without squishing them. They’re what makes this bread so moist and tasty!
Layer and swirl
Pour half of the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle on about three-quarters of the cinnamon sugar mixture. Carefully spread the rest of the batter over the top, then sprinkle the remaining cinnamon sugar on it. Grab a knife or spoon and swirl the cinnamon sugar into the batter to create a marbled effect.
Bake to perfection
Pop that loaf into your oven and bake for 35 to 45 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs. If you notice the top browning too quickly, tent it with foil for the last 10 to 15 minutes.
Cool before serving
Patience is key here—let the bread cool completely before slicing and serving. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
Recipe tips & variations
Feel free to change up the apples you use; each variety gives a slightly different flavor and texture. You might wanna try adding some nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for a bit of crunch.
For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle a simple glaze over the top once the bread is cooled. Just mix powdered sugar with a bit of milk or lemon juice and drizzle away!
Storage & reheating
Store your lovely apple bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want it to last longer, keep it in the fridge instead, where it’ll stay fresh for about a week.
To reheat, simply warm slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds. It’ll taste just like it did when it was freshly baked!
FAQs
How can I make this bread gluten-free?
You can substitute the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour. Make sure it contains a binder like xanthan gum for best results.
Can I freeze this apple bread?
Yes! Once it’s completely cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze it for up to three months. Thaw it at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy.
Can I use oil instead of butter?
Absolutely! Substituting melted butter with an equal amount of vegetable oil works fine, although it might alter the flavor slightly.
Why is my bread too brown on the top?
This can happen if your oven runs hot. Check your oven temperature with an oven thermometer, and tent the bread with foil if needed during the final 10 to 15 minutes of baking.
Recipes you may like
If you enjoyed this apple bread recipe, you might love these other tasty treats: The Best French Bread Pizza Recipe You’ll Ever Try or Zucchini Corn Fritters. They’re perfect for any time you need a little homemade goodness!
Apple Bread
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 1 loaf 1x
Description
A delightfully simple and comforting apple bread recipe filled with the sweet aroma of cinnamon and apples.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups chopped apples (Pink Lady, Gala, Honeycrisp – peeled and chopped, about 2 apples)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease and flour an 8 x 5 inch loaf pan, or line it with parchment paper.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar and cinnamon. Set it aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together your eggs and granulated sugar until well combined. Stir in the melted butter and vanilla extract.
- Add the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt, mixing until just combined.
- Gently fold in the apple chunks.
- Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle about three-quarters of the cinnamon sugar mixture on top. Pour the rest of the batter over the top and sprinkle remaining cinnamon sugar.
- Swirl the cinnamon sugar into the batter.
- Bake for 35 to 45 minutes, or until golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let the bread cool completely before slicing and serving.
Notes
- You can change the apples used for different flavors.
- Add nuts for a bit of crunch.
- Drizzle a glaze with powdered sugar and milk or lemon juice after cooling.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 10 grams
- Sodium: 150 milligrams
- Fat: 7 grams
- Saturated Fat: 4 grams
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 grams
- Trans Fat: 0 grams
- Carbohydrates: 30 grams
- Fiber: 1 gram
- Protein: 3 grams
- Cholesterol: 50 milligrams