Nothing spells comfort quite like the aroma of freshly baked apple cinnamon bread wafting through your kitchen. This delicious treat combines the sweetness of apples with the spicy warmth of cinnamon. Not only is it a delectable breakfast choice, but it also makes for a satisfying snack or a heartwarming dessert. Dive into this recipe for a flavorful loaf that is sure to become a household favorite.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups apples, peeled, cored, and diced
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
Equipments
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or hand whisk
- Loaf pan
- Baking parchment
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cooling rack
How to Make Apple Cinnamon Bread – Step By Step
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
Before starting, make sure you have all the ingredients at hand. Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray and line it with parchment paper, leaving extra overhang to pull the bread out later. Gather your apples and peel, core, and dice them into small chunks, ready for later steps.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, and salt. Stir these together with a spoon or a whisk to ensure they are well combined. This step is crucial for an even rise and consistent texture throughout your bread.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
Take another mixing bowl and use an electric mixer or a hand whisk to beat the softened butter and brown sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process usually takes about 2 to 3 minutes. It’s an important step to incorporate air, which helps to create a lighter bread texture.
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
Add the eggs, one at a time, to the butter-sugar mixture, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract. This infusion of vanilla adds depth and richness to the flavors.
Step 5: Fold in the Apples
Gently fold in the diced apples into your batter using a wooden spoon or rubber spatula. Be careful not to overmix, as you want to maintain the air bubbles for a light texture. If using, consider adding nuts at this stage for an extra crunch.
Step 6: Assemble the Bread
Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan. In a small bowl, mix together the ground cinnamon and granulated sugar. Sprinkle half of this cinnamon-sugar mixture over the batter in the pan. Follow with the remaining batter and then top with the remaining cinnamon-sugar mixture.
Step 7: Bake the Bread
Place your loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Baking times may vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on the bread to avoid overbaking.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. Then, using the parchment paper overhang, lift the bread out of the pan and place it on a cooling rack to cool completely. Slice and serve your apple cinnamon bread at room temperature, and enjoy!
How to Serve Apple Cinnamon Bread
Apple cinnamon bread is incredibly versatile. It can be served as a delightful breakfast option with a pat of butter or as an afternoon treat alongside a cup of tea or coffee. For an indulgent twist, pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or drizzle some caramel sauce on top for dessert.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
For the best results, always use fresh ingredients, especially when it comes to apples. Sweeter varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp are excellent choices for this recipe. Make sure the butter is soft for easy creaming, and do not skip lining the loaf pan as it ensures an easy release. If you enjoy experimenting with flavors, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the cinnamon-sugar mix for an extra spice kick.
High Protein Twist: Supercharged Apple Cinnamon Bread
If you’re trying to incorporate more protein into your snacks without sacrificing flavor, consider adding a protein powder or Greek yogurt to your apple cinnamon bread. Swap out some of the all-purpose flour for almond flour or incorporate a scoop of vanilla protein powder into the dry ingredients. This version not only boosts the protein content but also delivers a satisfying, nourishing snack.
In addition, adding chopped walnuts or pecans can substantially increase the protein and healthy fats, giving each slice even more culinary punch. You’ll be pleasantly surprised at how seamlessly these changes blend into the texture and flavor of the traditional recipe!
Low Carb Delight: Guilt-Free Apple Cinnamon Bread
Looking to enjoy this treat while maintaining a low-carb lifestyle? Try our lower-carb version of apple cinnamon bread. You can replace the all-purpose flour with almond flour and opt for a low-carb sweetener blend instead of regular sugars. This allows you to enjoy the same comforting taste without the carb load.
For those aiming to reduce their sugar intake, using unsweetened applesauce or grated apples in moderation can help retain moisture and flavor while keeping carb counts in check. These adjustments create an equally delicious and much healthier alternative that your dietary goals will appreciate.
Storage Instructions
To keep your apple cinnamon bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag, then store in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply allow it to thaw at room temperature or heat in a toaster oven for a warm treat.
FAQs
- Question: Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour? Answer: Yes, you can replace it, but the texture may be slightly denser.
- Question: How can I make this recipe vegan-friendly? Answer: Replace the eggs with flax eggs and use coconut oil instead of butter.
- Question: Can I add more spices? Answer: Absolutely! Feel free to add nutmeg, cloves, or ginger for additional flavor.
- Question: What’s a good apple variety for this recipe? Answer: Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Gala work well due to their natural sweetness and firm texture.
- Question: Is it necessary to peel the apples? Answer: Peeling is recommended for a smoother texture, but it’s not mandatory if you prefer the added fiber.
Bake and Enjoy: Closing Thoughts
Baking apple cinnamon bread is a delightful experience, bringing warmth and comfort to your kitchen. Its versatility means it’s perfect for any occasion, from breakfast to dessert. Try this recipe, and bask in the rich aromas and flavors of this beloved classic. Share your creations with friends and family, and don’t forget to leave a comment below and tell us how it turned out! 🍏✨
Deliciously Warm Apple Cinnamon Bread
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- all-purpose flour
- baking soda
- salt
- unsalted butter
- brown sugar
- eggs
- vanilla extract
- apples
- nuts
- ground cinnamon
- granulated sugar