This Apple Cinnamon Bread is a cozy treat that fills your kitchen with warm, sweet scents. Loaded with fresh apples and a sprinkle of cinnamon, it’s perfect for breakfast or a snack!
Nothing beats a slice with a bit of butter melted on top! I enjoy making this bread on chilly weekends; it always brightens the day and makes everyone smile! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-purpose flour: This forms the base of your bread. If you’re gluten-free, consider using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, and it should work just fine!
Butter: Unsalted butter gives the best flavor. You can substitute it with coconut oil or a dairy-free margarine if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.
Sour cream: This ingredient adds moisture. Greek yogurt works well as a substitute. If you want a lighter option, use applesauce—just reduce the sugar slightly.
Apples: I love Granny Smith for their tartness, but any firm apple like Honeycrisp or Fuji is great here. If apples aren’t in season, you can use unsweetened apple sauce (about 1 cup).
What’s the Best Way to Incorporate Apples into the Bread?
To ensure the apples are evenly distributed, dice them into small, uniform pieces. This keeps them from sinking to the bottom. Gently fold them in after your batter is mixed to avoid overworking the dough, which can make your bread tough.
- Once you fold in the apples, just mix until you can’t see dry flour. Stop there!
- For an extra flavor boost, you can toss the apple pieces in a bit of flour before adding them—this helps them hold their shape while baking.
How Do I Achieve a Perfect Cinnamon Swirl?
If you want that beautiful cinnamon swirl, it’s all about layering! After pouring half the batter into the pan, sprinkle that cinnamon sugar mixture evenly before adding the rest. This ensures a nice marbled look.
- Use a knife to lightly swirl through the layers; don’t overdo it. You want distinct swirls, not a fully mixed batter.
- Remember, the cinnamon-sugar mixture can be adjusted to your taste—add more or less based on how sweet you want your bread!
Delicious Apple Cinnamon Bread Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bread:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup sour cream or plain yogurt
- 1 ½ cups peeled and diced apples (about 2 medium apples)
For the Optional Cinnamon Swirl:
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
How Much Time Will You Need?
This apple cinnamon bread will take approximately 15 minutes to prep, plus about 55-65 minutes to bake. After baking, let it cool for about 10 minutes in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack. In total, plan for about 1 hour and 30 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan or you can line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
2. Prepare Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt. This mixture will add structure and flavor to your bread. Set it aside for later!
3. Cream Butter and Sugar:
In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together using a mixer, or a wooden spoon if you prefer the old-fashioned way. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla:
Beat in the eggs, one at a time, making sure to mix well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract, which gives the bread a lovely aroma.
5. Mix in Sour Cream:
Now, add the sour cream (or yogurt) to the mixture. Stir until everything is well combined; it will be thick and creamy!
6. Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients:
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture. Mix gently until just combined to avoid overmixing—no one wants tough bread!
7. Fold in the Apples:
Carefully fold in the diced apples. This adds moisture and sweetness to the bread. Be gentle so you don’t break the apples.
8. Create the Cinnamon Swirl (Optional):
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and ground cinnamon. Pour half of the batter into your prepared pan, sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture on top, then add the remaining batter. Finish by topping with the rest of the cinnamon sugar. To create a beautiful swirl, use a knife to gently swirl through the batter, but don’t overdo it!
9. Bake the Bread:
Place your pan in the preheated oven and bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
10. Cool the Bread:
Once baked, let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
11. Slice and Serve:
Now, it’s time to enjoy! Slice the bread and serve plain, or with a pat of butter. It’s great warm or at room temperature!
This Apple Cinnamon Bread is moist, filled with tender apple pieces, and has a delightful swirl of cinnamon goodness. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert! Enjoy every bite!
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Can I Substitute the Apples in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While I recommend using firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for their flavor and texture, you can also try pears or even peaches. If using canned fruit, make sure to drain it well to avoid adding extra moisture.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
To store your leftover apple cinnamon bread, let it cool completely and then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can be kept at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze slices for up to 3 months—just thaw before enjoying!
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes, you can! Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend as a substitute for all-purpose flour. Ensure your baking powder is also gluten-free. Many gluten-free flour mixes include xanthan gum, which helps with the texture, but check the packaging for best results.
What’s the Best Way to Enjoy This Bread?
This bread is delightful on its own, but you can also serve it warm with a pat of butter or cream cheese. Try pairing it with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy treat! For an extra special touch, top slices with a drizzle of maple syrup or a sprinkle of powdered sugar before serving.
