Why You’ll Love This Apple Cinnamon Bread Recipe
If you’re looking for a delightful treat that perfectly combines the warm flavors of apple and cinnamon, you’re going to love this Apple Cinnamon Bread recipe.
It’s incredibly easy to whip up, and the aroma that fills your kitchen while it bakes is simply irresistible.
Each slice is moist, bursting with chunks of sweet apple, and has just the right amount of cinnamon spice.
I can’t help but smile every time I take a bite; it reminds me of cozy fall days.
Whether you enjoy it for breakfast or dessert, this bread is sure to become a favorite in your home!
Ingredients of Apple Cinnamon Bread
When it comes to baking, simplicity is often the key to a fantastic creation. This Apple Cinnamon Bread recipe is a perfect example of that. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a loaf that’s not only delicious but also feels like a warm hug on a chilly day.
Let’s take a look at what you’ll need to gather from your pantry and fridge to make this delightful treat.
Ingredients for Apple Cinnamon Bread:
- 1 1/3 cups flour
- 3/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 cup sugar, divided
- 1 teaspoon sugar, divided (for sprinkling)
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups apples, peeled and coarsely chopped
- 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped (optional)
Now, let’s talk a bit about these ingredients. You might be wondering if you can swap out any of them. For instance, if you’re not a fan of walnuts—or if you’re like me and tend to forget to buy nuts—feel free to leave them out.
The apples are the star of the show anyway! And if you want to make it a bit healthier, you could use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour, but be prepared for a slightly denser loaf.
As for the apples, choose a variety that’s sweet and tart, like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, to really elevate that flavor profile. And don’t skimp on the cinnamon; it’s what makes this bread sing!
How to Make Apple Cinnamon Bread
Making Apple Cinnamon Bread is a delightful process that fills your kitchen with warm, inviting aromas. First things first, grab 1 1/3 cups of flour, 3/4 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of ground cloves. Mix those dry ingredients together in a bowl and set them aside. This is where the magic begins, and trust me, it’s worth the effort. I remember the first time I tried this; I was so enthusiastic to see how the spices would blend with the apples.
Now, in a larger mixing bowl, take 1 cup of sugar and combine it with 1/2 cup of vegetable oil. Give it a good stir until it’s nicely mixed together—this part can get a little sticky, but that’s where the fun is.
Next, add in 2 beaten eggs and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing it all up until it’s smooth and creamy. Then comes the star of the show: the 2 cups of peeled and coarsely chopped apples. Fold them gently into the mixture, along with 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts if you’re feeling nutty.
Finally, gently stir in the dry ingredients you set aside earlier. It’s okay if it’s a bit lumpy; that’s just the apples peeking through, keen to be baked.
Once everything is combined, pour your batter into a greased loaf pan, spreading it evenly. Now, here’s a little tip: you want to bake this beauty at 325 F for about 50 to 60 minutes. But don’t just set a timer and walk away; check on it.
After about 20 minutes, take a peek and sprinkle 1 teaspoon of sugar on top. It’ll create a lovely, sweet crust. Trust me, I’ve had my share of baking mishaps, but this little sprinkle is a game-changer.
Keep testing with a toothpick toward the end—if it comes out clean, you’re golden. Let it cool in the pan, and soon, you’ll have a loaf that’s not just a treat but a warm hug in bread form. Enjoy every bite, and maybe share a slice or two, if you’re feeling generous.
Apple Cinnamon Bread Substitutions & Variations
While I love the classic Apple Cinnamon Bread recipe, I often find myself experimenting with substitutions and variations to keep things fresh.
For a healthier twist, I sometimes swap half the sugar with applesauce or use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose.
If I want a nutty flavor, I’ll add pecans or almonds in place of walnuts.
Sometimes, I throw in dried cranberries or raisins for added sweetness.
For a fun flavor boost, I’ve used almond extract instead of vanilla.
Each variation brings a new dimension, making this recipe endlessly enjoyable and uniquely my own!
Additional Tips & Notes
To guarantee your Apple Cinnamon Bread turns out perfectly every time, I recommend keeping a few key tips in mind.
First, use a mix of sweet and tart apples for the best flavor.
Don’t skip the toothpick test—baking times can vary, so check for doneness.
If you’re using mini loaf pans, adjust the baking time accordingly; they’ll need less time.
Let the bread cool completely in the pan before removing it to avoid crumbling.
Finally, store any leftovers in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
Trust me, these tips make all the difference for a delightful loaf!