This Apple Cinnamon Bread is a warm and cozy treat filled with sweet apples and spicy cinnamon. Perfect for breakfast or a snack, it fills your kitchen with a lovely aroma!
Sometimes, I can’t resist slicing off a piece right out of the oven. It’s hard to wait when it smells this good! 😂 Enjoy it plain or with a little butter—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: Choose sweet, tart apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji for great flavor. If you’re out of fresh apples, try using unsweetened applesauce. Just reduce the sugar slightly to balance the sweetness.
Butter: Unsalted butter gives the best control over the saltiness of the bread. If you need a dairy-free option, coconut oil or vegetable oil can be used instead—your bread will still come out yummy!
Sour Cream/Yogurt: Both add moisture and density. You can swap them with buttermilk or even a plant-based yogurt if you’re looking for something lighter or dairy-free.
Walnuts/Pecans: These add crunch and flavor. If you have nut allergies, feel free to skip them or replace with sunflower seeds for some texture.
How Do I Ensure My Bread is Moist and Fluffy?
To get that perfect moist and fluffy texture, proper mixing is key. Start by creaming the butter and sugar well—it should be light and airy. When you add the dry ingredients to the wet ones, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense bread, so be gentle!
- Check your baking time, as oven temperatures can vary. Always do the toothpick test before the time is up; if there’s wet batter on the pick, give it a few more minutes.
- Cooling is important too. If you let it cool in the pan too long, it can get soggy. Don’t forget to transfer it to a wire rack!
How to Make Apple Cinnamon Bread
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- Wet Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream or plain yogurt
- Mix-Ins:
- 1 1/2 cups peeled and chopped apples (about 2 medium apples)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- Topping:
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Apple Cinnamon Bread takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 60-70 minutes of baking time. Plus, you’ll want to give it a little time to cool before slicing. Overall, set aside about 1.5 to 2 hours for everything!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat & Prepare the Pan:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s warming up, take a 9×5 inch loaf pan and grease it with butter or cooking spray, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later. This will help your bread come out perfectly!
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This step ensures that all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed for a consistent bake.
3. Cream Together Butter and Sugar:
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes with a hand mixer. Don’t rush this step, as it creates air pockets that help your bread rise!
4. Combine with Eggs and Vanilla:
Next, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract. It should smell delightful already!
5. Add the Sour Cream or Yogurt:
Mix in the sour cream or yogurt until well combined. This will add moisture to your bread, making it deliciously soft.
6. Fold in the Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring gently with a spatula or spoon. Mix just until everything is combined, being careful not to overmix. A few lumps are okay!
7. Add Apples and Nuts:
Fold in the peeled and chopped apples and nuts if you’re using them. This adds a lovely texture and flavor to your bread.
8. Pour into the Pan:
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Don’t forget to sprinkle the top with brown sugar for a delightful sweet crust.
9. Bake to Perfection:
Place the loaf in the preheated oven and bake for about 60 to 70 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean. If it’s still wet, give it a few more minutes.
10. Cooling Time:
Once baked, let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, carefully remove it from the pan and let it cool completely on a wire rack. This helps prevent sogginess.
Now that your Apple Cinnamon Bread is ready, slice it up and enjoy it warm or at room temperature, perhaps with a cup of tea or coffee. Happy baking!
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Can I Use Different Apples for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can use any variety of apples you like. Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, and Fuji are excellent choices for a nice blend of sweet and tart flavors. Feel free to mix different types for added depth!
Can I Make This Bread Without Nuts?
Definitely! If you have nut allergies or simply prefer it without, you can leave out the walnuts or pecans. The bread will still be delicious and moist without them.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Apple Cinnamon Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze it for up to 3 months. Just thaw it at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy it!
Can I Add Other Spices or Ingredients?
Yes, you can customize your bread with spices or extras! For instance, adding a pinch of cloves for warmth or even some dried cranberries or raisins for an extra fruit punch works great. Just be mindful of the moisture balance if you add more fruits!