Apple Bread

Name: Apple Bread
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups white granulated sugar; 4 cups all-purpose flour; 2 tablespoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 large eggs; 2 cups milk; 2/3 cup vegetable oil; 1 cup diced apples (peeled); 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon; 2/3 cup white granulated sugar (for topping); 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for topping)

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Warm, fragrant, and incredibly tender, this Apple Bread is the ultimate comfort bake for fall and beyond. It’s a simple, no-yeast quick bread filled with chunks of sweet baked apples and a swirl of cinnamon sugar that fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. Ready with just five minutes of hands-on prep, this loaf delivers bakery-level results at home—moist, flavorful, and perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Apple Bread

This Apple Bread stands out for its simplicity and rich texture. Unlike yeast breads, it’s a quick bread—meaning no kneading or rising time is needed. The moisture from the apples seeps into the crumb as it bakes, creating a soft, sponge-like texture. The cinnamon adds warmth and depth, while the golden crust delivers just the right touch of crunch. Whether you’re making it for a cozy weekend breakfast or gifting it during the holidays, this recipe never disappoints.

Ingredients for the Best Apple Bread

• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the loaf and helps create that irresistible golden crust.
• All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure and gives the bread its tender crumb.
• Baking Powder: Acts as the leavening agent for a light, airy texture.
• Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
• Eggs: Bind ingredients and add richness to the batter.
• Milk: Keeps the Apple Bread moist and soft; any kind of milk works.
• Vegetable Oil: Adds tenderness without overpowering the flavor.
• Ground Cinnamon: Infuses the loaf with cozy, aromatic warmth.
• Diced Apples: The star of the recipe, giving juicy bursts of flavor in every bite. Choose baking apples like Honeycrisp, Braeburn, or Pink Lady.
• Cinnamon-Sugar Mixture: Creates a sweet swirl and lightly crisp topping.

Smart Ingredient Swaps

• Flour Alternatives: Swap all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free blend if needed.
• Milk Options: Substitute dairy milk with almond, oat, or soy milk.
• Oil Substitutions: Melted butter or canola oil both work beautifully.
• Healthier Twist: Replace half the oil with unsweetened applesauce to reduce fat while maintaining moisture.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Apple Bread

Prepare Your Apples: Peel and dice apples into small, even cubes. You can leave the skins on for added fiber and texture.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, flour, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined.
Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat eggs, milk, and oil until smooth and just combined.
Bring It Together: Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, stirring gently until the batter comes together. Avoid over-mixing to keep the bread light.
Fold in Apples and Cinnamon: Add the diced apples and ground cinnamon, folding until evenly distributed.
Prepare the Loaf Pan: Grease your loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Add Batter and Topping: Pour batter into the pan until about ⅔ full. Mix cinnamon and sugar in a small bowl, then spoon over the top. Swirl lightly with a knife.
Bake: Place the pan in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven. Bake for 40–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Slice when fully cooled for neat pieces.

Expert Tips for Success

• Don’t Over-Mix: Overworking the batter makes the bread dense. Mix only until ingredients are combined.
• Test for Doneness: Oven times vary—use a toothpick test to check for a clean finish.
• Fill Loaf Pan Correctly: Fill no more than ⅔ full to allow space for the bread to rise.
• Baking Apples Matter: Choose firm varieties that hold their shape, such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp.
• Cool Completely Before Slicing: Cutting too soon can cause the loaf to crumble.

Delicious Add-Ins and Variations

• Nutty Crunch: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for a satisfying crunch.
• Extra Flavor: Stir in a teaspoon of vanilla or almond extract for added aroma.
• Crumb Topping: Combine brown sugar, butter, flour, and cinnamon for a sweet streusel before baking.
• Mini Muffins: Pour batter into mini muffin tins for bite-sized versions—bake 12–17 minutes.
• Double the Fun: Make two smaller loaves instead of one large one to share or freeze.

Storing and Freezing Apple Bread

To keep your Apple Bread fresh and moist, store it in a sealed container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to five days.

To freeze, wrap the loaf (or individual slices) tightly in foil and place in a freezer-safe bag. It will keep for up to three months. Thaw overnight at room temperature before serving, or warm gently in the oven.

Serving and Pairing Ideas

This Apple Bread pairs beautifully with coffee, hot cider, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Spread with butter, cream cheese, or honey for a comforting snack. For a festive twist, drizzle it with cream cheese glaze or warm caramel sauce. It’s equally delightful as part of a brunch spread or as an edible holiday gift.

Seasonal Baking Inspiration

Fall is the perfect time to bake Apple Bread, but it’s a year-round favorite too. In spring and summer, try swapping apples for peaches or blueberries for a fruity variation. During the holidays, add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves to make it taste like a cozy spiced cake.

Conclusion

Baking Apple Bread is more than just making a treat—it’s creating a comforting, aromatic loaf that fills your home with warmth. Each slice offers the perfect balance of sweetness, spice, and tender apple bits that melt into a soft, moist crumb. This recipe is simple, reliable, and endlessly adaptable, making it a must-have in any baker’s collection. Whether you enjoy it fresh from the oven, as a cozy breakfast, or as a thoughtful homemade gift, Apple Bread delivers that nostalgic “fall in a loaf” feeling every time.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the best apples to use for Apple Bread?

Firm, tart apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Pink Lady hold their shape best while baking. They balance the sweetness of the bread and prevent it from becoming mushy.

2. Can I make this Apple Bread gluten-free or dairy-free?

Absolutely. Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and use almond, soy, or oat milk in place of dairy milk. The texture and flavor remain wonderfully moist and satisfying.

3. How should I store Apple Bread to keep it fresh?

Keep your Apple Bread in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate for five days or freeze for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature or reheat for that freshly baked feel.

More Relevant Recipes

Apple Crisp Recipe – Best Fall Dessert: A warm, comforting dessert featuring tender baked apples topped with a golden, buttery crumble. Similar in flavor to Apple Bread, this recipe captures the cozy essence of cinnamon and baked fruit in every bite.
Apple Pie Overnight Oats Recipe: A creamy, no-cook breakfast that delivers the same sweet and spiced apple goodness as Apple Bread. Perfect for busy mornings, it combines oats, cinnamon, and diced apples for a satisfying start to the day.
Cranberry Orange Bread Recipe: This quick bread blends tangy cranberries and zesty orange for a bright twist on traditional sweet loaves. Its moist texture and balanced flavor make it a perfect companion to the comforting style of Apple Bread.

Apple Bread – Easy, Moist Recipe You’ll Love

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