Apple Cinnamon Bread is a delightful treat that encapsulates the essence of comfort and warmth. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast option, a snack, or a delightful dessert, this bread checks all the boxes. The combination of sweet apples, warm cinnamon, and a moist, fluffy texture makes it a family favorite. As you step into your kitchen and embrace the aroma of baking, you’ll understand why this recipe has become a staple for many.
Why We Love This Apple Cinnamon Bread Recipe
There’s something magical about the blend of apples and cinnamon that brings back memories of cozy autumn days. The fragrance of this bread filling your home is comforting, inviting, and reminiscent of Grandma’s kitchen. Each slice not only tastes amazing, but it also carries a story of warmth and love.
What makes this Apple Cinnamon Bread recipe even better is its versatility. You can enjoy it plain, slather it with butter, or even toast it for an extra crispy texture. It’s perfect for sharing with friends and family or simply enjoying on your own with a cup of coffee or tea. The choice is yours, but one thing is for sure: once you taste this bread, you’ll be hooked.
Ingredients for Apple Cinnamon Bread
To create your delicious Apple Cinnamon Bread, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 cups peeled and finely diced Honeycrisp apples, divided
- 3/4 cup milk
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour or gluten-free baking flour
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon, divided
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 cup + 1 tbsp unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1/2 cup + 1 tbsp light brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Demerara or raw sugar for topping (optional)
How to Make Apple Cinnamon Bread
Creating scrumptious Apple Cinnamon Bread is a straightforward process that will leave your kitchen smelling heavenly. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×5 loaf pan and line it with parchment paper to ensure your bread doesn’t stick.
Next, take a microwave-safe bowl and melt 1 cup of diced apples with 1 tablespoon of butter. Heat them for 30-60 seconds until softened. Once done, mix them with 1 tablespoon of brown sugar and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Set this mixture aside; it will add a delightful swirl to your bread.
In another measuring cup, combine the milk and apple cider vinegar, letting it sit for a few minutes. This step helps to create a buttermilk effect which adds moisture and tenderness to your bread.
Meanwhile, in a large bowl, whisk together the flour, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, baking soda, and kosher salt. In a separate mixing bowl, cream the remaining butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. Then, add applesauce, egg, and vanilla extract to this blend, mixing until fully incorporated.
After the wet mixture is prepared, gradually add half of the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Then pour in the milk mixture. Fold in the remaining dry ingredients gently, ensuring you do not overmix. Finally, gently fold in the remaining diced apples, allowing them to distribute evenly throughout the batter.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top. Take your earlier prepared apple mixture and swirl it into the batter for added flavor. For a sweet finish, sprinkle some demerara or raw sugar on top if you wish.
Transfer the loaf pan into your preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick into the center of the bread. When it comes out clean, your bread is ready! Once baked, allow it to cool for at least 45 minutes before slicing. This cooling process helps the flavors meld and ensures nice, clean slices.
How to Serve Apple Cinnamon Bread
When it comes to serving Apple Cinnamon Bread, the options are endless. You might enjoy it warm right out of the oven, appreciating the rich aroma and cozy vibes. To elevate your experience, consider a generous slice accompanied by a pat of butter or a smear of cream cheese. The creamy texture pairs perfectly with the sweet, spiced notes of the bread.
Another delightful way to enjoy this bread is by toasting it lightly. A warm, crispy edge brings out the essence of both the apples and cinnamon, creating a satisfying contrast to the soft interior. For brunch gatherings, serve it alongside scrambled eggs or a fresh fruit salad for a balanced meal.
You might even want to transform this bread into a decadent French toast by soaking slices in a mixture of eggs, milk, and a hint of vanilla before frying them in butter. This twist adds a whole new depth of flavor and textures, making it an excellent way to impress friends during weekend brunch.
Expert Tips for Apple Cinnamon Bread
To ensure your Apple Cinnamon Bread turns out perfectly every time, consider these expert tips:
Choose the Right Apples: Honeycrisp apples provide a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness. However, you can experiment with other varieties like Granny Smith or Fuji for different flavor profiles.
Don’t Skip the Swirl: The apple and cinnamon mixture adds a delightful surprise in each slice. Make sure to swirl it in gently, so it doesn’t overmix with the batter.
Check for Doneness: Oven temperatures can vary. Start checking your bread at the 50-minute mark using a toothpick to ensure it’s cooked through without drying it out.
Cooling is Key: Letting the bread cool in the pan for too long can make it soggy. Once it’s out of the oven, allow it to cool on a wire rack to maintain its texture.
Flavor Variations: Consider adding nuts or raisins to the batter for additional flavor and texture. Chopped walnuts or pecans work wonderfully in this recipe.
How to Store Apple Cinnamon Bread
Proper storage will ensure your Apple Cinnamon Bread retains its moistness and flavor. Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you need to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it, but be aware that this may change its texture slightly.
For extended storage, consider freezing your bread. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer bag. This method helps preserve its quality for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it at room temperature or pop it in the toaster for a quick warm-up.
Variations of Apple Cinnamon Bread
While this recipe is delicious as is, there are numerous ways to put your spin on Apple Cinnamon Bread. Here are a few ideas:
Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free all-purpose flour to make this bread suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. Be sure to check for a blend that contains xanthan gum for best results.
Add Nuts: Incorporate chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for added crunch and flavor. They complement the apple and cinnamon beautifully.
Spices: Feel free to explore with additional spices such as nutmeg or allspice. A sprinkle of freshly grated nutmeg can add a warm, aromatic essence to your bread.
Dried Fruits: Consider adding dried cranberries or raisins for a sweet little surprise in each bite. These fruits can provide a lovely contrast to the apples.
Frosting: For a more decadent approach, drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk over slices of your cooled bread. This sugary touch can elevate your bread to dessert status.
FAQs About Apple Cinnamon Bread
How can I ensure my Apple Cinnamon Bread is moist?
To keep your Apple Cinnamon Bread moist, avoid overmixing the batter. Incorporate the ingredients just until blended. The applesauce and diced apples also provide additional moisture, so make sure to not leave them out.
Can this recipe be doubled for larger gatherings?
Absolutely! You can double the ingredients and use two loaf pans. Just ensure your oven can accommodate both pans, and adjust the baking time accordingly if you’re baking them together.
Is it normal for my bread to sink in the middle?
A sinking loaf may indicate that your batter was overmixed or that there wasn’t enough leavening agent used. Ensure you follows the measurements accurately and mix the batter gently.
Can I replace the egg in this recipe?
Yes, you can replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) or unsweetened applesauce for a vegan version.
How should I serve Apple Cinnamon Bread?
Apple Cinnamon Bread can be served warm or at room temperature. Pair it with butter, cream cheese, or simply enjoy it on its own. Toasting it lightly can also enhance the flavors.
Apple Cinnamon Bread
Ingredients
- 2 cups peeled and finely diced Honeycrisp apples
- ¾ cup milk
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour or gluten-free baking flour
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon divided
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter room temperature
- ½ cup light brown sugar packed
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Demerara or raw sugar for topping optional
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 8.5 x 4.5-inch loaf pans.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt 1 cup of diced apples with 1 tablespoon of butter for 30-60 seconds until softened. Mix with 1 tablespoon of brown sugar and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, then set aside.
- In a separate bowl, combine milk and apple cider vinegar and let sit for a few minutes.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, baking soda, and salt.
- Cream together the remaining butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar until fluffy. Add applesauce, egg, and vanilla; mix until combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk mixture. Mix until just combined.
- Fold in the remaining diced apples gently.
- Pour the batter into prepared pans, swirling in the reserved apple mixture. Sprinkle with demerara sugar if desired.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool in pans for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
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