Name: Cinnamon Apple Bread: The Ultimate Cozy Fall Delight
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 90 min
Ingredients: 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (or gluten-free flour); 1 teaspoon Baking Powder; 1/2 teaspoon Salt; 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (or vegan butter); 1 cup Granulated Sugar (or brown sugar for richness); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract; 2 large Eggs (or applesauce for vegan option); 1/2 cup Milk (any milk variant); 1/2 cup Light Brown Sugar (or dark brown sugar); 1 tablespoon Ground Cinnamon (for flavor); 2 cups Apple (peeled, cored, and chopped); 1 tablespoon Brown Sugar; 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon; 1 cup Confectioners’ Sugar; 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon; to taste Water (to achieve desired consistency)

As I stirred the ingredients together, the delightful scent of cinnamon and apples filled my kitchen, whisking me away to cozy autumn afternoons. This Easy Cinnamon Apple Bread recipe captures the essence of fall baking in every slice, making it perfect for breakfast or a sweet dessert. With its tender, moist crumb and hints of warm spices, this treat is easier to make than you might think! One of the best parts? It’s an irresistible crowd-pleaser that can be enjoyed warm from the oven or stored for those busy weeknights. Plus, it keeps amazingly well, so you can whip up a loaf ahead of time. Ready to bring a slice of autumn into your home? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe together!

Why is Cinnamon Apple Bread a must-try?

Irresistible aroma: As this bread bakes, the tantalizing scent of cinnamon and apples fills your kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere perfect for gatherings.
Simple preparation: With straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros alike—just mix, pour, and bake!
Versatile treat: Enjoy it warm for breakfast, as a snack, or paired with coffee—this loaf is delightfully versatile. Looking for an even more comforting meal? Check out this Crock Pot Brown for a full fall feast!
Make-ahead goodness: Whip up this delightful loaf in advance and savor it throughout the week—its flavors only deepen over time.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether it’s a family brunch or a potluck, this Cinnamon Apple Bread is sure to impress everyone with its tender crumb and sweet hints of fall!

Cinnamon Apple Bread Ingredients

For the Bread

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure for the bread; can substitute with gluten-free flour if needed.
Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent to help the bread rise perfectly.
Salt – Enhances the overall flavor for a balanced taste.
Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture; substitute with vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
Granulated Sugar – Contributes sweetness and helps achieve a tender crumb; brown sugar can be used for added depth.
Vanilla Extract – Introduces flavor complexity that elevates the bread.
Eggs – Adds richness and helps bind the ingredients together; for a vegan alternative, use applesauce or flax eggs.
Milk – Provides moisture; feel free to use any milk variant, dairy or plant-based.
Light Brown Sugar – Sweetens while adding moisture; dark brown sugar can be substituted for a richer flavor.
Ground Cinnamon – Essential for that warm, spiced flavor that defines this Cinnamon Apple Bread.
Apple – Offers moisture and tartness; choose tart apples like Granny Smith or Honey Crisp for the best results, peeling, coring, and chopping them into small pieces.

For the Topping

Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and a crunchy texture on top of the loaf.
Ground Cinnamon – Doubles the warm spice notes, enhancing the topping’s flavor.

For the Glaze

Confectioners’ Sugar – Provides a sweet finish that enhances the overall flavor; this is the icing on the cake!
Ground Cinnamon – Incorporates spice into the glaze for added depth.
Water – Used to achieve the desired consistency for the glaze.

This delightful Cinnamon Apple Bread is sure to bring smiles with every slice!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cinnamon Apple Bread

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, grease an 8.5 x 4.5-inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray to ensure easy release after baking. The perfect preparation of your pan is key to achieving a beautifully shaped and unblemished Cinnamon Apple Bread.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. This step is crucial for evenly distributing the leavening agent and flavoring in your Cinnamon Apple Bread. Set the bowl aside, allowing the dry ingredients to meld together while you move on to the next steps.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a separate large bowl, beat together 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, 1 cup of granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. This will take about 2-3 minutes, and the mixture should appear light in color and fluffy. Incorporate 2 large eggs, one at a time, ensuring they are fully blended before adding the next egg to maintain a rich texture.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with 1/2 cup of milk. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix, as this could affect the texture of your Cinnamon Apple Bread. Aim for a smooth batter with no visible dry ingredients, allowing the flavors to come together beautifully.

Step 5: Prepare Apples and Cinnamon Mixture
In another bowl, mix together 1/2 cup of light brown sugar, 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon, and 2 cups of peeled, cored, and chopped apples. Stir until the apples are well-coated with the sugary mixture. This step is essential for infusing the fruit with extra spice and sweetness, making each bite of your Cinnamon Apple Bread a delightful experience.

Step 6: Layer the Batter and Apple Mixture
Pour half of the prepared batter into the greased loaf pan, smoothing it out evenly. Next, add half of the apple mixture and swirl it gently with a fork to create a beautiful marbled effect. This layering ensures a perfect blend of flavors within your Cinnamon Apple Bread while allowing for visual appeal as it bakes.

Step 7: Finish Layering and Add Topping
Spoon the remaining batter on top, followed by the remaining apple mixture. Again, gently swirl to incorporate the apples without fully mixing, maintaining those delightful swirls. Finally, mix together 1 tablespoon of brown sugar and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon in a small bowl, and sprinkle this topping over the batter for an extra crunchy sweetness once baked.

Step 8: Bake and Check Doneness
Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with very few moist crumbs attached. This step is critical for ensuring your Cinnamon Apple Bread is perfectly baked and ready to fill your home with its warm, inviting aroma.

Step 9: Cool and Transfer
Once baked, remove your Cinnamon Apple Bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 15-20 minutes. Carefully transfer it to a cooling rack to cool completely. This cooling period allows the flavors to settle and intensify, ensuring that each slice is as delightful as the last.

Step 10: Drizzle with Glaze
After your bread has completely cooled, prepare the glaze by mixing 1 cup of confectioners’ sugar, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and enough water to achieve a drizzling consistency. Drizzle the glaze over the cool Cinnamon Apple Bread, adding a touch of sweetness that enhances both flavor and presentation.

Expert Tips for Cinnamon Apple Bread

Apple Selection: Choose tart varieties like Granny Smith or Honey Crisp for a balanced flavor. Sweet apples may make the bread too sugary.
Avoid Overmixing: Mix until just combined to keep your bread light and fluffy. Overmixing can cause a dense texture that isn’t ideal.
Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick to test; it should come out clean or with only a few moist crumbs. This ensures a perfectly baked Cinnamon Apple Bread.
Cool Properly: Allow the bread to cool in the pan before transferring to a rack. This helps maintain its shape and prevents sogginess.
Freezing Tips: To preserve freshness, wrap your cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap before freezing, ensuring no air can cause freezer burn.

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Cinnamon Apple Bread loaves are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can mix the dry ingredients and prepare the apple mixture up to 24 hours in advance; just store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. Additionally, you can fully bake the bread and cool it completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 6 days or freeze for up to 2 months. To serve, simply thaw if frozen, and enjoy it at room temperature or warm it up in the oven for a cozy treat. With these easy make-ahead steps, you’ll have delightful homemade Cinnamon Apple Bread ready to savor any time!

How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon Apple Bread

Room Temperature: Store the Cinnamon Apple Bread covered at room temperature for up to 2-3 days for optimal freshness, ensuring it remains moist and flavorful.

Fridge: If you’d like to keep the bread longer, refrigerate it for up to 6 days; simply wrap it in plastic wrap or foil to avoid drying out.

Freezer: To freeze, wrap the cooled Cinnamon Apple Bread tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It can be kept in the freezer for up to 2 months; just thaw in the fridge before serving.

Reheating: For a delightful warm treat, slice and reheat in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a toaster oven for a few minutes until warmed through.

Cinnamon Apple Bread Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to add your personal touch and make this delightful recipe your own!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend for a delicious alternative.
Dairy-Free: Use vegan butter instead of unsalted butter and a plant-based milk for a creamy texture without dairy.
Maple Sweetness: Swap brown sugar for maple syrup to introduce a unique flavor profile and natural sweetness.
Nuts Galore: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch that elevates the bread’s texture. Their nutty flavor complements the cinnamon beautifully.
Fruit Mix: Incorporate dried fruits like cranberries or raisins to add chewiness and extra bursts of sweetness in every bite. These morsels can be a pleasant surprise!
Spiced Apples: Experiment with spices like nutmeg or allspice mixed into the apple mixture for an additional flavor layer that excites your palate.
Extra Glaze: For a richer finish, top your bread with a cream cheese glaze instead of the simple sweet glaze. A touch of tanginess pairs wonderfully with the sweetness.
Heightened Heat: Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes for a surprising twist that balances out the flavors with a hint of warmth!

As you enjoy this cozy baking experience, don’t forget to check out our Crock Pot Brown for a delightful fall feast that pairs beautifully with your warm slices of Cinnamon Apple Bread.

What to Serve with Easy Cinnamon Apple Bread

Imagine a comforting fall gathering, the air rich with apple and cinnamon while you share delicious moments with loved ones.

Warm Spiced Cider: The fragrant notes of spiced cider enhance the warm flavors of the bread, making every sip and bite a cozy experience.
Creamy Yogurt: A dollop of vanilla yogurt adds a creamy texture that perfectly balances the sweetness of the apple bread.
Crunchy Granola: Sprinkle granola on top for a delightful crunch, adding an enjoyable contrast to the moist bread.
Maple Syrup Drizzle: A light drizzle of maple syrup can elevate each slice, enriching it with a sweet, earthy note that pairs beautifully.
Cinnamon Ice Cream: For a cozy dessert option, serve a slice with a scoop of cinnamon or vanilla ice cream—pure bliss!
Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad brings a bright, tangy touch, cutting through the richness of the bread.
Herbal Tea: A warm cup of chamomile or peppermint tea creates a soothing companion, enhancing the bread’s comforting flavors.
Scoop of Whipped Cream: Topping your slice with whipped cream introduces a light, airy sweetness that perfectly complements the apple and cinnamon notes.
Roasted Nuts: A handful of roasted walnuts or pecans can provide protein and a satisfying crunch alongside the soft, moist bread.

Cinnamon Apple Bread Recipe FAQs

What type of apples are best for Cinnamon Apple Bread?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, I recommend using tart varieties like Granny Smith or Honey Crisp. These apples add a lovely balance of sweetness and tartness, ensuring each bite is delightful. Sweet apples might make the bread overly sugary, so stick with the tart ones for that perfect balance.

How should I store Cinnamon Apple Bread?
You can keep your Cinnamon Apple Bread covered at room temperature for up to 2-3 days to maintain its freshness. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 6 days. This will help it retain its moisture without drying out!

Can I freeze Cinnamon Apple Bread?
Yes, you can! To freeze, allow your bread to cool completely. Then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just thaw it overnight in the fridge before slicing or reheating.

What should I do if my bread comes out too dense?
No worries! If your Cinnamon Apple Bread turns out dense, it might be due to overmixing the batter. Next time, blend the ingredients until just combined. Also, make sure you’re using the correct measurements for flour, as too much can lead to heaviness. Finally, check that your baking powder is fresh, as expired leavening agents can also affect the bread’s rise.

Is there a dairy-free option for this recipe?
Very much so! You can easily make this Cinnamon Apple Bread dairy-free by substituting unsalted butter with vegan butter and using a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk. For the eggs, try using unsweetened applesauce (1/4 cup for each egg) or flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg), ensuring everyone can enjoy this cozy treat!

Can I add nuts or other ingredients to the recipe?
The more the merrier! Feel free to customize your Cinnamon Apple Bread by adding nuts such as walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch. You could also incorporate raisins or dried cranberries for an extra burst of flavor. Just be sure to adjust the apple quantity slightly if you add in additional ingredients—it’s all about finding your perfect blend!