Cinnamon Apple Bread

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Few things evoke the comforting warmth of fall quite like the smell of cinnamon and baked apples wafting through the kitchen. This Cinnamon Apple Bread is a cozy, moist loaf that strikes the perfect balance between sweet and spiced, with chunks of tender apple nestled in every bite. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven with a pat of butter or sliced and toasted the next morning, it’s a treat you’ll want on repeat.

The top is drizzled with a simple glaze, adding a slight crunch and a creamy finish that makes it feel just indulgent enough. It’s a perfect recipe for using up those extra apples, ideal for brunch spreads, lunchbox surprises, or holiday gift baskets. Make one loaf and you’ll understand why it never lasts more than a day in our house.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Creating the perfect Cinnamon Apple Bread begins with having the right tools on hand:

• Mixing Bowls: You’ll need a few sizes to separate your dry and wet ingredients before combining them. This helps ensure even mixing and prevents overworking the batter.
• Hand or Stand Mixer: While you can mix by hand, a hand or stand mixer ensures a smoother batter with less effort, especially when creaming the butter and sugar.
• Loaf Pan (9×5 inch): The shape and size matter to achieve the perfect loaf with a crisp crust and tender center.
• Rubber Spatula: Ideal for folding in apple chunks gently without breaking them down.
• Wire Rack: Cooling the bread on a rack prevents the bottom from getting soggy.
• Whisk: Essential for combining dry ingredients and preventing lumps.

With these tools ready, the baking process becomes not only smoother but much more enjoyable.

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Ingredients for the Cinnamon Apple Bread

Each ingredient plays an important role in the flavor and texture of this delicious loaf:

• All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of the bread, offering structure and softness.
• Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps caramelize the edges.
• Brown Sugar: Deepens the flavor with a hint of molasses richness.
• Butter: Provides richness and moistness to the loaf.
• Eggs: Help bind everything together and give the bread a tender crumb.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the warmth of the cinnamon and apple.
• Apples (peeled and diced): The star of the recipe—use crisp apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for best texture.
• Baking Soda: Gives rise to the loaf without the need for yeast.
• Cinnamon: Offers warm, cozy spice notes that elevate the bread’s flavor.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and brings out other flavors.
• Buttermilk: Adds moisture and a gentle tang that complements the sweetness.

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How To Make the Cinnamon Apple Bread

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This step builds the base of the loaf’s texture.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Make sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Whisking ensures even distribution of leavening agents and spices.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with buttermilk. Mix just until combined—don’t overmix.

Step 6: Fold in Apples

Using a spatula, gently fold in the diced apples. This prevents them from breaking down and turning mushy.

Step 7: Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 55–65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool and Glaze

Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Once cooled, drizzle with a simple powdered sugar glaze if desired.

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Best Ways to Serve and Store Cinnamon Apple Bread

This bread shines whether served warm or room temperature. For serving, slice thick pieces and enjoy with a smear of salted butter or a spoonful of apple butter on top. It’s also delicious slightly toasted, paired with coffee or tea.

To store, wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze individual slices wrapped in foil and placed in a zip-top freezer bag for up to 2 months. Just thaw and toast when the craving strikes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep the apples from sinking to the bottom of the loaf?

Toss the diced apples in a tablespoon of flour before folding them into the batter. This helps suspend them evenly throughout.

Can I use a different type of apple?

Absolutely! Tart varieties like Granny Smith work well, but sweeter apples like Fuji or Gala also add wonderful flavor.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Just make sure it contains xanthan gum for structure.

What can I use instead of buttermilk?

You can mix 1/2 cup milk with 1/2 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes and use it as a buttermilk substitute.

Is the glaze necessary?

The glaze adds a touch of sweetness and visual appeal, but the bread is equally delicious without it if you prefer something simpler.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes! Double the ingredients and bake in two loaf pans. Make sure to monitor baking time closely.

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Want More Sweet Bread Ideas?

If this Cinnamon Apple Bread hits the spot, try these other comforting favorites:

• Cinnamon Donut Bread for a sugary, crunchy crust.
• Lemon Blueberry Loaf if you’re craving a citrusy kick.
• Strawberry Crunch Pound Cake with creamy richness.
• Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Fudge when you want something super quick and chocolaty.
• Carrot Pound Cake with Vanilla Glaze for an earthy, spiced slice.

For even more delicious and cozy baking inspiration, check out my daily recipe pins on Pinterest: Life With Olivia.

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Save This Recipe for Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use Honeycrisp or go with Granny Smith? Add any nuts or switch up the glaze?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other bake smarter.

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