Apple Bread Recipe

If you’re looking for a warm, comforting treat that captures the cozy essence of fall any time of the year, this Apple Bread is exactly what you need. Bursting with tender bits of finely diced apples and accented by subtle cinnamon warmth, this bread is irresistibly moist and flavorful. The perfect balance of sweet and spice makes it equally delightful for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert. Each bite gives you that homey feeling, as if someone fresh from the kitchen carefully baked it just for you. Apple Bread is that kind of recipe that quickly becomes a favorite, offering simple ingredients that come together in a truly magic way.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to baking an unforgettable Apple Bread. Each component plays its part — from the fragrant cinnamon that adds a gentle spice, to the apples that provide moisture and sweet bursts of flavor, everything works together to create the perfect texture and taste.

• 2 cups finely diced apple: Fresh apples bring natural sweetness and moisture, keeping the bread tender inside.
• 2 cups flour (spelt, white, or oat): The foundation of your bread, choose your flour based on your preferred texture and flavor.
• 3/4 cup sugar: Sweetness that balances the tartness of the apples and enhances the cinnamon notes.
• 1 cup milk (of choice): Adds richness and helps blend the ingredients smoothly for a moist crumb.
• 3 1/2 tbsp oil (or applesauce): Keeps the bread soft and moist without weighing it down; applesauce is a great healthier swap.
• 2 tsp pure vanilla extract: Adds depth and a sweet aroma that complements the apples and cinnamon beautifully.
• 2 tsp baking powder: Gives your Apple Bread the lift it needs to be light and fluffy.
• 1/2 tsp baking soda: Works alongside the baking powder to improve rise and tenderness.
• 3/4 tsp salt: Highlights the natural flavors and balances the sweetness perfectly.
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon: The warming spice that pairs perfectly with apples for that classic comforting flavor.

How to Make Apple Bread

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This sets you up with the right temperature to bake your bread evenly, ensuring a soft yet properly cooked loaf. Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan to avoid sticking and prep it for the delicious Apple Bread batter.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. This mixture forms the backbone of your bread, distributing the leavening agents and spices evenly throughout the batter.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, stir together the finely diced apples, sugar, milk, oil (or applesauce), and vanilla extract. Mixing these ingredients separately ensures the apples stay moist and infused with flavor before folding into the dry mix.

Step 4: Fold Wet into Dry

Gently fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients just until combined. Overmixing can toughen Apple Bread, so a gentle hand keeps it tender and fluffy with lots of apple goodness in every bite.

Step 5: Bake Your Apple Bread

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and slide it into the oven. Bake for about 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out mostly clean with just a few moist crumbs. This timing guarantees a perfectly cooked loaf every time.

Step 6: Cool and Enjoy

Once baked, allow the Apple Bread to cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack. Cooling enhances the flavor and texture, so resist the urge to slice it while it’s piping hot!

How to Serve Apple Bread

Garnishes

Adding a simple garnish can elevate your Apple Bread presentation beautifully. A light dusting of powdered sugar gives it a delicate, snowy touch, or try brushing the top with melted butter and sprinkling a little cinnamon sugar for extra sweetness and crunch.

Side Dishes

Apple Bread pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of tea or coffee, making it an ideal companion for cozy mornings or afternoon breaks. For a heartier option, serve alongside creamy yogurt or a smear of cream cheese, which complements the bread’s sweetness with tangy richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Think beyond the loaf! Slice the Apple Bread thick and toast to serve warm with butter melting into every crevice. You can even turn slices into a decadent dessert by adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce for an indulgent treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled completely, wrap your Apple Bread tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container to maintain freshness. It will keep at room temperature for up to three days or stay fresh in the fridge for about a week.

Freezing

Apple Bread freezes beautifully, making it a great make-ahead option. Wrap the whole loaf or individual slices in plastic wrap, then a layer of foil, and freeze. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature.

Reheating

To bring back that fresh-baked warmth, reheat slices in a toaster oven or regular oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving for long periods to keep the texture just right—warm, soft, and delicious.

FAQs

Can I use different types of apples in this Apple Bread?

Absolutely! Using tart apples like Granny Smith will give a nice balance to the sweetness, while sweeter varieties like Fuji or Gala will make the bread taste more dessert-like. Feel free to experiment.

Is it okay to substitute oil with applesauce?

Yes, substituting oil with applesauce reduces fat and adds fruity moisture, but use the same amount to keep the texture soft and tender.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make Apple Bread gluten-free, substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum. Keep an eye on the texture since it may be slightly different but still delicious.

How do I know when the Apple Bread is done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the bread; if it comes out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs, it’s ready. If the batter sticks, bake for a few more minutes and test again.

Can I add nuts or dried fruit to the Apple Bread?

Definitely! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or dried cranberries mix in beautifully with the apple flavors and add wonderful texture and complexity to the bread.

Final Thoughts

I truly believe this Apple Bread is one of those recipes that brings comfort and happiness in every slice. It’s simple enough for a quick kitchen project but impressive enough to share with guests or enjoy any time you want a cozy homemade treat. I can’t wait for you to bake this and see how those warm apple and cinnamon notes fill your home, making every moment a little sweeter.

Print