When the leaves turn golden and the crisp air signals the arrival of fall, there’s nothing more comforting than the aroma of freshly baked bread filling your home. Enter Cinnamon Apple Bread – a delightful, moist quick bread that combines the sweet, tangy flavors of apples with the spicy warmth of cinnamon. This recipe is not just a treat for the taste buds but a celebration of the season itself. Whether you’re looking for a cozy breakfast, a holiday dessert, or a thoughtful homemade gift, this bread is perfect for every occasion.
In this article, we’ll guide you through a step-by-step recipe for making Cinnamon Apple Bread, complete with a luscious cinnamon glaze. We’ll also share tips, variations, and ideas for serving. By the end, you’ll have all the inspiration you need to whip up this autumnal delight in your own kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect for Fall Baking: Loaded with seasonal apples and warm spices, this bread is a must-try during autumn.
- Quick and Easy: This is a no-fuss recipe, made without yeast, so you can enjoy homemade bread without the extra effort.
- Versatile Treat: Enjoy it as breakfast, a snack, or dessert. It’s also a crowd-pleaser at holiday gatherings.
- Homemade Comfort: Baking this bread fills your home with the cozy scent of cinnamon and apples, making it feel like fall indoors.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this Cinnamon Apple Bread, you’ll need simple pantry staples and fresh ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Bread:
- Apples (2 medium): Peel, core, and dice finely. Sweet-tart varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best.
- Flour (2 cups): All-purpose flour provides the perfect structure for this bread.
- Granulated Sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the bread and balances the tartness of the apples.
- Brown Sugar (½ cup): Adds depth of flavor and moisture.
- Ground Cinnamon (2 tsp): The star spice that pairs beautifully with apples.
- Baking Powder (1 tsp): Helps the bread rise and keeps it light.
- Salt (½ tsp): Enhances all the flavors.
- Eggs (2 large): Acts as a binding agent and adds richness.
- Milk (½ cup): For moisture and a tender crumb.
- Unsalted Butter (½ cup, melted): Adds richness and flavor.
- Vanilla Extract (1 tsp): For that subtle, sweet aroma.
For the Cinnamon Glaze:
- Powdered Sugar (1 cup): The base for the glaze.
- Milk (2-3 tbsp): Adjust for desired consistency.
- Ground Cinnamon (½ tsp): To enhance the flavor of the glaze.
- Vanilla Extract (½ tsp): Complements the sweetness of the glaze.
Step-by-Step Recipe
1. Prepare the Ingredients
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Peel, core, and dice the apples into small cubes. Set them aside.
2. Make the Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, then whisk in the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
- Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in dense bread.
- Gently fold in the diced apples, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
3. Bake the Bread
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
4. Make the Cinnamon Glaze
- In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, cinnamon, and vanilla extract until smooth and pourable.
- Drizzle the glaze generously over the cooled bread. Allow it to set for a few minutes before slicing.
Tips for Success
- Choose the Right Apples: Sweet-tart apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji hold their shape well and add a burst of flavor.
- Don’t Overmix: Stir the batter just until combined to avoid a dense or tough texture.
- Use Fresh Spices: For the best flavor, make sure your ground cinnamon is fresh.
- Cool Completely Before Glazing: Allow the bread to cool fully before adding the glaze to prevent it from melting.
Variations and Add-Ons
- Add Nuts: Fold in ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture.
- Cranberry Twist: Mix in ¼ cup of dried cranberries for a tangy flavor contrast.
- Make It Healthier: Substitute half the flour with whole wheat flour and use unsweetened applesauce instead of butter.
- Mini Loaves or Muffins: Divide the batter into mini loaf pans or muffin tins for individual servings.
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy a slice warm with a pat of butter for breakfast.
- Pair it with a hot cup of coffee or tea as a cozy afternoon treat.
- Serve it as a dessert with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Why This Recipe is Perfect for the Holidays
Cinnamon Apple Bread isn’t just a treat for autumn – it’s also a fantastic addition to your holiday baking repertoire. It makes an excellent homemade gift, wrapped in parchment paper and tied with a festive ribbon. You can also bake it in advance and freeze it, making holiday prep stress-free.
Health Benefits of Apples and Cinnamon
This bread isn’t just delicious; it also has some hidden health perks:
- Apples: Rich in fiber, antioxidants, and vitamin C, they support digestion and boost immunity.
- Cinnamon: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to regulate blood sugar levels.
FAQs About Cinnamon Apple Bread
1. Can I use other types of apples?
Yes, you can! While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are ideal, any apple variety will work in this recipe.
2. How should I store this bread?
Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze it for up to 3 months.
3. Can I make it dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the milk with almond milk or another plant-based alternative, and use coconut oil instead of butter.
Why This Bread Stands Out
Among the plethora of fall baking recipes, this Cinnamon Apple Bread is a standout. Its combination of warm spices, tender apples, and sweet cinnamon glaze strikes the perfect balance between indulgent and wholesome. Whether you’re baking for yourself, your family, or holiday guests, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.
Cinnamon Apple Bread: A Seasonal Favorite
This Cinnamon Apple Bread recipe captures the essence of autumn in every bite. It’s easy to make, incredibly versatile, and sure to become a favorite in your home. So, gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and let the warm, comforting aromas of cinnamon and apples take over your kitchen.
Don’t forget to save this recipe and share it with friends and family who love holiday breads and fall baking!
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