Apple Bread Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a showstopping homemade treat that brings all the cozy fall vibes (but is secretly welcome year-round), let me introduce you to apple bread. You’ll fall head over heels for this moist, tender loaf studded with juicy diced apples and swirled with cinnamon sugar. Whether you’re planning a weekend brunch, looking for a thoughtful homemade gift, or simply wanting a satisfying snack with your cup of coffee, apple bread covers all your bases with comforting flavor and irresistible aroma.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of apple bread lies in its simple, pantry-friendly ingredients. Each one plays a crucial part, working together to give you a loaf that’s marvelously fluffy with a golden cinnamon crust and bursts of sweet apple in every bite.

• White granulated sugar: This adds essential sweetness and helps create a moist crumb throughout the bread.
• All-purpose flour: The foundation of structure, giving the loaf its classic density and rise.
• Baking powder: A key leavening agent ensuring the bread rises beautifully and stays light.
• Salt: Just a touch enhances and balances all the flavors.
• Eggs: Bind the ingredients and contribute to a rich, tender texture.
• Milk: Adds moisture and helps make the crumb perfectly soft.
• Vegetable oil: Oil keeps every bite extra moist—no dry bread here!
• Apples (diced and peeled): The star! Choose a tart variety like Granny Smith or a sweeter Honeycrisp for lovely pops of flavor throughout.
• Ground cinnamon: Warming spice that pairs dreamily with apples—both in the batter and for the swirl on top.
• Mix-in cinnamon and sugar: A special cinnamon sugar swirl on top gives that bakery-style finish and just enough crunch.

How to Make Apple Bread

Step 1: Prep the Pans and Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F, making sure your rack is positioned in the center. Generously grease your loaf pans with butter or a spritz of nonstick spray. This step ensures your apple bread releases effortlessly after baking—you don’t want to lose a single crumb!

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar, flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined. This initial mix helps with an even distribution of leavening and keeps nasty flour pockets at bay in your finished loaf.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

Grab your stand mixer bowl or a large mixing bowl. Beat the eggs, milk, and vegetable oil together just until they’re blended—no need to over-mix. The goal is a smooth, pale yellow mixture that’s ready to welcome the dry ingredients.

Step 4: Bring the Batter Together

Gradually add your whisked dry mix into the wet ingredients, mixing until everything is just combined. At this point, gently fold in the diced apples and ground cinnamon. Those fresh apple chunks will dot the batter, ensuring you get a juicy bite every time.

Step 5: Fill and Swirl

Pour your batter into the prepared pans, only filling them to about two-thirds full—remember, apple bread rises! In a separate small bowl, stir together the extra sugar and cinnamon. Spoon this over the batter’s surface and use a butter knife to gently swirl the mixture throughout the top for a beautiful marbled effect.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Transfer the pans to your preheated oven and bake for about 40 minutes. When a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs (but no wet batter), your apple bread is ready. Let the loaves cool slightly in the pan before moving to a wire rack to finish cooling completely.

How to Serve Apple Bread

Garnishes

A little garnish goes a long way! Dust your cooled apple bread with a whisper of powdered sugar, drizzle with a touch of warm caramel sauce, or sprinkle with extra cinnamon just before serving. If you want to get fancy, thin apple slices or a handful of toasted walnuts on top add impressive flair and a lovely crunch.

Side Dishes

Apple bread shines as a standalone treat, but it’s also wonderful alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or paired with sharp cheddar cheese for a sweet-savory bite. For breakfast, serve it with creamy Greek yogurt and fresh fruit on the side.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing the apple bread thickly and toasting it lightly—perfect for slathering with butter or nut butter. You can also cube leftover slices to make indulgent apple bread French toast, or even layer it in a trifle with vanilla pudding and cinnamon-spiced apples. Individual mini loaves wrapped in parchment make lovely, thoughtful gifts for friends, neighbors, or teachers!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover apple bread (which is a feat in itself!), wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This keeps the bread wonderfully moist and prevents it from drying out.

Freezing

Apple bread freezes incredibly well. Once completely cooled, wrap whole loaves or individual slices in a double layer of plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag or container. It’ll keep for up to three months—just thaw at room temperature or in the fridge when the craving hits.

Reheating

Warm slices revive the flavors and the just-baked aroma! Pop slices in your toaster or microwave for a few seconds until warmed through. For a crispier bite, bake slices in a low oven for five to ten minutes. Spread with butter for that ultimate comforting treat.

FAQs

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose?

Absolutely! You can substitute up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat for a nuttier flavor and a heartier texture. Just know the apple bread may be a touch denser but still delicious.

What types of apples work best for apple bread?

I love using firm, slightly tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp; they hold their shape and add a nice pop of flavor. Feel free to mix in sweeter varieties if you prefer a more mellow taste.

Can I add nuts or raisins?

Yes to both! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or even raisins make excellent mix-ins. Fold up to a cup into the batter along with the apples and cinnamon for extra texture and taste.

How can I tell when the bread is fully baked?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf—if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs (no wet batter!), your apple bread is ready to come out of the oven. Overbaking can dry it out, so check early if your oven runs hot.

Do I have to peel the apples?

Peeling gives a softer bite and a more uniform crumb, but if you prefer a rustic look and a bit of chew, you can leave the skins on. Just be sure to dice the apples small for best texture in your apple bread.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready to fill your kitchen with sweet cinnamon-apple aroma and treat your loved ones to a loaf that disappears in a flash, give this apple bread recipe a try! I promise, one bite and you’ll see why it’s such a favorite—don’t be surprised if it becomes a regular in your baking rotation.