There’s something so heartwarming about baking apple cinnamon bread in my kitchen. The moment the butter melts and the sugar starts to blend with the spices, it fills the air with a cozy, inviting aroma that makes me feel right at home. I can’t help but smile as I envision my family gathering around the table, eagerly waiting for a warm slice. This bread is perfect for breakfast, slathered with a bit of butter, or as a delightful dessert, paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Trust me, whether it’s morning or evening, this treat is always a winner!
Ingredients for Apple Cinnamon Bread
Let’s gather our ingredients! Each one plays a vital role in creating that delicious, moist apple cinnamon bread. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: This is the foundation of our bread, giving it structure. Make sure to spoon and level it for accurate measurement!
- 1 cup sugar: Sweetness is key! It balances the spices and enhances the natural flavor of the apples.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder: This is our leavening agent, helping the bread rise beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Ah, the star of the show! This will give our bread that warm, cozy flavor that pairs perfectly with apples.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Just a pinch to enhance all the flavors—don’t skip it!
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: This adds richness and moisture. Make sure it’s melted but not too hot when you mix it in!
- 2 large eggs: These will help bind everything together and add to the bread’s tenderness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla brings a lovely depth of flavor.
- 1 cup apples, peeled and diced: Use your favorite type of apple! I love Granny Smith for their tartness, but sweet apples like Fuji work beautifully too.
- 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped (optional): If you like a bit of crunch, toss in some walnuts! They add a lovely texture and nutty flavor.
Gather these ingredients, and let’s make some magic happen in the kitchen!
How to Prepare Apple Cinnamon Bread
Now, let’s dive into the fun part—making our apple cinnamon bread! Follow these steps, and you’ll have a warm, fragrant loaf ready in no time.
Preheat the Oven
First things first, let’s get that oven preheating to 350°F (175°C). This is super important because having a hot oven helps the bread rise beautifully and bake evenly. So, don’t skip this step—set that temperature and let it warm up while you get everything else ready!
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients: 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of sugar, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. I like to whisk them together for about a minute until they’re well combined. This ensures the baking powder and cinnamon are evenly distributed throughout the flour, which is key for that fantastic flavor!
Combine Wet Ingredients
Now, let’s grab another bowl! In this one, mix together 1/2 cup of melted unsalted butter, 2 large eggs, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. I usually whisk these until they’re nice and smooth. Make sure the butter isn’t too hot, or it might scramble the eggs—yikes!
Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Time to bring it all together! Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Now, here’s a little tip: mix gently until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough bread, and we definitely don’t want that! A few lumps are okay—trust me!
Add Apples and Walnuts
Next, it’s time to add the star ingredients: 1 cup of peeled and diced apples and 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts if you’re using them. Gently fold these into the batter using a spatula. You want to make sure they’re evenly distributed without over-mixing the batter. The apples will add sweetness and moisture, while the walnuts bring a delightful crunch!
Pour and Bake
Now it’s time for the fun part! Grab a greased loaf pan and pour the batter in. Give it a little shake to level it out. Then, pop it into your preheated oven and bake for about 50-60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The smell that fills your kitchen while it’s baking? Oh my goodness, it’s heavenly!
Cool Before Slicing
Once it’s done baking, resist the temptation to slice right away! Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial for getting that perfect texture. If you slice it too soon, it might crumble or be a bit gummy. Trust me, the wait is worth it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just about 15 minutes of prep time—perfect for those busy mornings or last-minute dessert needs!
- Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of sweet apples and warm cinnamon creates a mouthwatering flavor that you’ll crave again and again.
- Versatile Treat: Enjoy it as a delightful breakfast with a smear of butter or as a warm dessert with ice cream—it’s fantastic either way!
- Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite nuts or even add some dried fruits or spices for a personal twist!
- Perfect for Sharing: Bake it up for brunch with friends or as a thoughtful gift to neighbors—everyone will love a slice of this comforting bread!
Tips for Success
To make sure your apple cinnamon bread turns out perfectly every time, here are some of my favorite tips to keep in mind:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly ground spices and good-quality apples will make a huge difference in flavor. If you can, grab your apples from a local farmer’s market for that extra burst of freshness!
- Don’t Overmix: Remember, the key to a tender bread is to mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf, and nobody wants that!
- Check for Doneness: If you’re unsure whether your bread is done, do the toothpick test! Insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, it’s ready to come out of the oven.
- Let It Cool: Patience is a virtue! Allowing the bread to cool before slicing helps it hold its shape and enhances the texture. I know it’s hard to resist, but it’s worth the wait!
- Experiment with Flavors: Don’t be afraid to add your spin! Try tossing in some raisins, dried cranberries, or even a bit of nutmeg for a different flavor profile. The possibilities are endless!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to bake the most scrumptious apple cinnamon bread. Happy baking!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the nutritional values you can expect from a slice of this delightful apple cinnamon bread. Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on ingredient brands and specific measurements:
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 200
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 10g
- Protein: 3g
This bread is not only delicious but also a satisfying treat! Enjoy it knowing you’re indulging in something that brings both flavor and a bit of nutrition to your day.
FAQ About Apple Cinnamon Bread
Can I use different types of apples?
Absolutely! One of the best things about apple cinnamon bread is that you can use any apples you have on hand. I personally love Granny Smith for that tart contrast against the sweet bread, but sweet varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp also work wonderfully. Just pick your favorite or whatever looks good at the store, and you’ll be set!
How should I store leftovers?
Storing leftovers is super simple! Just place your apple cinnamon bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it. Wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, and it will stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw it in the fridge overnight!
Can I make this recipe without nuts?
Of course! If you’re not a fan of nuts or have allergies, feel free to skip them altogether. The bread will still be moist and delicious with just the apples and spices. You can also try adding a bit of extra apple or even some raisins for a little sweetness without the crunch!
How do I know when the bread is done?
The best way to check for doneness is the trusty toothpick test! Insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf—if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs clinging to it, your bread is ready to come out of the oven. If it’s still wet with batter, give it a few more minutes and check again. This is such a straightforward method, and it works like a charm!
Can I add spices to enhance flavor?
Absolutely! Don’t be shy about experimenting with spices. Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for a warm, spiced up flavor. You could even try a bit of ginger for some extra zing! Just remember to adjust the amounts to your taste, and have fun with it. This recipe is super versatile, so let your creativity shine!
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Apple Cinnamon Bread: 5 Reasons It’s Pure Comfort
- Total Time: 75 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious apple cinnamon bread perfect for breakfast or dessert.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup apples, peeled and diced
- 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
- In another bowl, combine melted butter, eggs, and vanilla.
- Mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined.
- Fold in the apples and walnuts if using.
- Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let it cool before slicing.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Use any type of apple you prefer.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: apple cinnamon bread, quick bread, dessert, breakfast
