If you’re craving a cozy treat that tastes like autumn in every bite, look no further than this Cinnamon Apple Bread. This loaf is the very definition of comfort — filled with tender apple pieces, swirled with brown sugar and cinnamon, and finished with a sweet cinnamon glaze. It’s the kind of bread that draws everyone into the kitchen, whether it’s for a quick breakfast, a mid-morning pick-me-up, or a just-because dessert. If you love the aromas of baking apples and warm spices, this Cinnamon Apple Bread is destined to become your new favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Cinnamon Apple Bread has a delightfully straightforward list of ingredients, but don’t let that fool you. Each one plays a special role, adding flavor, texture, or that irresistible homey aroma. Gather these baking beauties and get ready for some magic!
- All-purpose flour: The foundation for a tender, moist crumb that holds everything together.
- Baking powder: Essential for rise, making each slice fluffy and light.
- Salt: Just enough to balance flavors and make every sweet note sing.
- Unsalted butter, softened: Gives the bread its rich flavor and soft texture—don’t substitute margarine if you can help it!
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the loaf and helps create that beautiful golden crust.
- Vanilla extract: Lends warm undertones and extra depth. Use pure vanilla for best results.
- Large eggs: These add structure and richness, making the bread sliceable yet moist.
- Milk: Keep the crumb delicate—whole or 2% both work perfectly.
- Light brown sugar: Used in both the apple filling and topping for cozy, caramel-like sweetness.
- Ground cinnamon: The star spice—infused through the layers and glaze for that signature flavor.
- Large apple (peeled, cored, chopped): Use your favorite variety—if you like tart, go for Granny Smith; for sweeter bites, try Gala or Fuji.
- Confectioners’ sugar: For a luscious glaze that takes the bread from “wow” to “oh my goodness!”
- Water: Just a splash to bring the glaze together.
How to Make Cinnamon Apple Bread
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease and flour an 8.5 x 4.5 inch loaf pan so your Cinnamon Apple Bread slides out easily after baking. For extra insurance, you can make a parchment paper sling—simply lay strips of parchment over the pan so the edges hang off, then grease them lightly. Trust me, it makes lifting the loaf a breeze later!
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This light and airy mixture ensures your bread will rise evenly and have that dreamy crumb. Set it aside for a few minutes while you work on the wet ingredients.
Step 3: Cream Butter, Sugar, and Vanilla
With either a stand mixer or your trusty hand mixer, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and vanilla together on medium-high speed for about 3-4 minutes. You want a pale, fluffy mixture that looks almost creamy. Remember to scrape down the bowl a couple of times—no one wants buttery pockets hiding in their Cinnamon Apple Bread!
Step 4: Add Eggs
Crack those eggs in, one at a time, beating well after each addition. This little extra step helps create an emulsion—ensuring the batter stays smooth—and keeps your loaf tender.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
With your mixer on low, add about half of the flour mixture, followed by half the milk. Repeat with the rest of the flour mixture and milk until everything is just combined. Don’t over-mix! You want to keep the crumb delicate and prevent any toughness.
Step 6: Prepare Apple and Cinnamon Mixtures
In a separate bowl, toss together the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and diced apples for that ooey-gooey apple swirl. For the topping, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. These add bursts of flavor throughout and a golden crunch on top.
Step 7: Layer and Swirl
Pour half the batter into your prepared loaf pan and scatter half the apple mixture on top. Take a knife or skewer and swirl it gently—aim for a thick, gorgeous ribbon of fruit and spice. Layer the remaining batter and apple mixture next. Give it another gentle swirl, then sprinkle the cinnamon sugar topping generously over everything.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Slide the pan into the oven and bake for 45 to 55 minutes, or until a cake tester or toothpick comes out clean—just a few moist crumbs are fine, thanks to those juicy apples in the center. If the top looks too dark before the center sets, tent a piece of foil over the loaf. The scent alone is irresistible!
Step 9: Glaze and Cool
Once your Cinnamon Apple Bread is out of the oven, cool it in the pan for about 15–20 minutes. Mix up your quick cinnamon glaze by whisking together the confectioners’ sugar, cinnamon, and water. Transfer your loaf to a rack (using those handy parchment sling ends if you made one) and drizzle the glaze on top while the bread is still slightly warm. Let the bread cool completely before slicing—the wait is the hardest part!
How to Serve Cinnamon Apple Bread
Garnishes
I love giving this bread an extra finishing touch with a dusting of powdered sugar or an extra sprinkle of cinnamon on top. For a beautiful brunch centerpiece, add a few thin apple slices or a tiny sprig of mint just before serving. Those little flourishes make each slice look bakery-perfect.
Side Dishes
Cinnamon Apple Bread pairs well with so many things! Serve thick slices with a dollop of vanilla Greek yogurt, a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream, or simple whipped cream. For breakfast, it’s divine with a side of crisp bacon, scrambled eggs, or your favorite fresh fruit.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling festive? Cut the bread into cubes and serve as part of a sweet brunch board with other quick breads and muffins. Or slice and toast the bread lightly, then slather with cinnamon honey butter for an extra-special treat. For gifting, wrap mini loaves in parchment and tie with twine—sure to delight anyone lucky enough to receive them!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any of this Cinnamon Apple Bread left (and that’s a big “if”), keep it covered at room temperature for 2-3 days. I recommend storing it in an airtight container or wrapping it in plastic wrap to maintain that lovely moisture—no one likes a dry slice!
Freezing
This bread freezes like a dream. Let the loaf cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and pop it into a freezer bag. For maximum freshness, slice the bread first and separate the slices with parchment—so you can thaw just one piece whenever the craving hits.
Reheating
To reheat, simply warm slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or toast gently in the oven at 300 degrees until just heated through. The apples inside get gloriously soft, and the glaze tastes fresh again. Perfect for that fresh-baked feel, days later!
FAQs
Can I use a different type of apple for Cinnamon Apple Bread?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples are great for a tart contrast, Gala, Fuji, or Honeycrisp all work beautifully. Pick your favorite or use a mix if you like a balance of sweet and tangy.
How do I prevent my Cinnamon Apple Bread from becoming soggy?
The key is chopping your apples into small pieces and not over-mixing into the batter. Also, be sure to let the bread cool completely before wrapping, as trapping excess steam can introduce moisture.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap the all-purpose flour for your favorite gluten-free baking blend. Look for one that includes xanthan gum for the best results; everything else in the recipe stays the same.
What’s the best way to tell if the bread is done baking?
Test with a toothpick inserted into the center. It should come out clean or with just a couple of moist crumbs attached. Due to the apples, some moisture is normal—just avoid any raw batter!
Can I double this recipe to make two loaves?
Definitely. Just double all the ingredients and divide between two pans. Keep an eye on bake time—they may need an extra 5-10 minutes, depending on your oven.
Final Thoughts
If your kitchen needs a burst of warmth and your spirits a sweet lift, you can’t go wrong with Cinnamon Apple Bread. Every slice feels like a little hug—filled with cinnamon, juicy apples, and love. Give it a try, share it with friends, and savor those perfect comfort-food moments. Happy baking!
