Welcome to your new favorite baking adventure: Cinnamon Apple Bread! This simple recipe blends sweet apples with warm cinnamon, creating a cozy treat that will fill your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas. Whether you’re sharing it at brunch or enjoying it solo, each bite promises comfort. Ready to bake a loaf that’s both irresistible and easy? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe together!
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Wet Ingredients
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted & slightly cooled
– 2 large eggs, beaten
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup sour cream
Add-ins
– 2 medium apples, peeled and diced (suggestions: Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
– Topping: 1 tablespoon brown sugar, pinch of ground cinnamon
You need a mix of wet and dry ingredients to make this bread. Start with the dry ones. Gather flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Whisk them together in a bowl. This step helps create a light and fluffy bread.
Next, you tackle the wet ingredients. In another bowl, combine melted butter, beaten eggs, vanilla, and sour cream. Mix well until smooth. This mixture adds richness to your bread.
Now, for the fun part! Add your diced apples. I suggest using Granny Smith for tartness or Honeycrisp for sweetness. If you like, toss in chopped nuts for crunch. This mix makes the bread special.
Don’t forget the topping! A sprinkle of brown sugar and cinnamon gives a sweet crust.
Finding the right mix of flavors in this recipe is key. You can find the full recipe to guide you through each step. Enjoy making this delightful treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Oven and Pan
– Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
– Prepare a 9×5-inch loaf pan with grease or parchment paper.
Start by getting your oven nice and hot. This helps the bread bake evenly. Greasing the loaf pan makes it easy to take the bread out later. You can also use parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Mixing Dry Ingredients
– Combine flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon in a large mixing bowl.
In a big bowl, mix the dry ingredients. Use a whisk to blend them well. This helps the baking powder and baking soda work better. You want every bite to taste just right.
Mixing Wet Ingredients
– Blend melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and sour cream until smooth.
In another bowl, combine the wet ingredients. Make sure the butter is cooled before mixing. Stir until the mixture is nice and creamy. This gives the bread a rich flavor.
Combining Ingredients
– Gradually mix wet ingredients into dry ingredients, stirring gently.
Now, pour the wet mix into the dry mix. Stir slowly so you don’t overmix. A few lumps are okay. This helps keep the bread soft and fluffy.
Incorporating Apples and Nuts
– Fold in diced apples and optional nuts until evenly distributed.
Next, add the diced apples. If you want, you can also add nuts for crunch. Gently fold them in so they spread out in the batter. This adds flavor and texture.
Baking Instructions
– Pour the batter into the pan, add topping, and bake for 50-60 minutes.
Pour the batter into your prepared pan. Spread it evenly with a spatula. For a sweet crust, mix brown sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle it on top. Bake the bread for 50-60 minutes. Check with a toothpick to see if it’s done. If it comes out clean, your bread is ready!
For the complete process, check out the Full Recipe.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Texture
To get the best texture, avoid overmixing your batter. Mixing too much makes the bread dense. Use a gentle hand when blending wet and dry ingredients. You want a few lumps; they keep the loaf tender. For apples, I recommend Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. These apples give a nice balance of sweet and tart flavors.
Substitutions
If you have dietary needs, you can make some easy swaps. Use gluten-free flour to make this bread gluten-free. You can also swap sour cream for a dairy-free yogurt. This will keep the bread moist without dairy. These substitutions work well without losing flavor.
Enhance Flavor
To add more flavor, consider extra spices. A pinch of nutmeg or allspice can elevate the taste. You might also try a splash of almond or maple extract. These small changes can make your bread even more special.
Variations
Add-ins
You can change the flavor of your cinnamon apple bread by adding different nuts or dried fruits. For a crunchy bite, try using chopped walnuts or pecans. These nuts add a rich flavor that pairs well with apples. If you love dried fruits, consider adding raisins or cranberries. They bring a nice sweetness and chewiness to the bread. Mix and match to find your favorite combo. Each choice brings a new twist to this classic recipe.
Flavor Twists
Want to give your bread a fresh taste? Add some citrus zest! Grated lemon or orange peel can brighten the flavors. Just a little zest goes a long way. It adds a zing that cuts through the sweetness. This small change makes your bread feel special. It’s a fun way to surprise your taste buds. Try it next time you bake!
Glaze Options
A glaze can make your cinnamon apple bread even sweeter. A simple glaze can be made with powdered sugar and milk. Just mix them until smooth and drizzle it over the cooled bread. For a richer flavor, try a maple glaze. Mix maple syrup with powdered sugar for a tasty topping. You can also sprinkle some extra cinnamon on top for a lovely finish. Glazes are easy to make and add a nice touch to your bread.
For the full recipe, check out the instructions above!
Storage Info
Short-Term Storage
To keep your cinnamon apple bread fresh for a few days, store it at room temperature. Wrap it in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. This helps keep the moisture in and prevents it from drying out. Enjoy it for breakfast or a snack without worrying about it going stale.
Long-Term Storage
If you want to save some for later, freezing is a great option. First, let the bread cool completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag. This keeps out air and prevents freezer burn. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours. This way, your bread stays soft and tasty.
Reheating Suggestions
To reheat your cinnamon apple bread, slice it and place it in a toaster oven or regular oven. Heat it at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. You can also microwave slices for 15-20 seconds. For a little extra flavor, add a pat of butter on top before reheating. This makes the bread warm and delightful. For the full recipe, check out the link!
FAQs
How long does Cinnamon Apple Bread last?
Cinnamon Apple Bread lasts about 3 to 5 days when you store it right. Keep it in an airtight container at room temperature. This helps keep it soft and fresh. If you want it to last longer, you can freeze it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. It can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. Just remember to thaw it in the fridge before serving.
What apples are best for baking?
For this recipe, I love using Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples. Granny Smith apples give a nice tartness that balances the sweetness of the bread. Honeycrisp apples add a sweet crunch and juicy texture. You can also try Fuji or Jonagold apples for a sweeter taste.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time! You can mix the batter and pour it into the pan. Cover it tightly and keep it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready, just bake it straight from the fridge. If you want to freeze it, bake the bread first, then let it cool completely. Wrap it well and freeze it. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before you serve it.
How to tell when the bread is done baking?
To check if your bread is done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, the bread is ready. The top should also be a nice golden brown. If the toothpick has wet batter on it, give it a few more minutes in the oven. Keep an eye on it to avoid overbaking. Enjoy that lovely scent filling your kitchen!
This blog post covered all you need to bake delicious Cinnamon Apple Bread. We explored ingredients, mixing techniques, baking steps, and tips for success. Remember, use fresh apples like Granny Smith for the best flavor. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender. Whether you choose to add nuts or a glaze, there are endless variations to enjoy. By following these steps, you can create a tasty treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Happy baking, and enjoy every slice you make!
