The rich aroma of warm cinnamon and sweet apples will fill your kitchen as this Cinnamon Apple Bread bakes to perfection. Topped with a buttery crumb layer and swirled with cinnamon sugar throughout, each slice offers a soft, moist texture with just the right touch of spice and sweetness. Ideal for cozy mornings, afternoon tea, or a sweet after-dinner bite, this bread is versatile and undeniably comforting. The addition of real apple chunks gives it a natural sweetness and a lovely bite, making it the perfect go-to loaf during apple season or any time you crave a homemade treat.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
For the Bread:
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1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
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1 3/4 teaspoons baking powder
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
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1/2 cup granulated sugar
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1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
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1/2 cup vegetable oil
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2 large eggs
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1/4 cup milk
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1 1/2 cups peeled and finely chopped apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
For the Cinnamon Sugar Swirl:
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1/3 cup granulated sugar
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1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
For the Crumb Topping:
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1/3 cup all-purpose flour
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1/3 cup packed light brown sugar
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1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
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3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Directions:
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
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In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
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In a separate large bowl, whisk both sugars, oil, eggs, milk, and vanilla until well combined.
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Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir just until combined.
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Fold in the chopped apples.
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In a small bowl, mix together the cinnamon sugar swirl ingredients.
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Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture over the batter.
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Add remaining batter, then top with the rest of the cinnamon sugar. Use a knife to gently swirl the cinnamon sugar into the batter.
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In another small bowl, prepare the crumb topping by mixing flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over the batter.
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Bake for 55–60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
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Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 60 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Kcal: 290 kcal | Servings: 10 slices
The Ultimate Guide to Moist Cinnamon Apple Bread
There’s something undeniably comforting about the aroma of cinnamon and apples wafting through the kitchen. As the seasons shift especially in autumn baking becomes more than just a culinary task; it becomes a tradition, a ritual of warmth and comfort. Among the many baked delights that celebrate the cozy side of life, Cinnamon Apple Bread stands out as a timeless classic.
This delicious quick bread combines the rustic sweetness of fresh apples with the aromatic warmth of ground cinnamon, all tied together with a soft, moist crumb and topped with a buttery crumble for the perfect texture contrast. Whether enjoyed for breakfast, brunch, dessert, or an afternoon treat, this loaf captures everything you love about fall in every bite.
Why Cinnamon and Apple are a Perfect Pair
Cinnamon and apple is one of those flavor duos that have stood the test of time and for good reason. The natural tartness of apples balances beautifully with the warm, slightly spicy sweetness of cinnamon. This dynamic duo has roots in both culinary tradition and science. Cinnamon not only enhances the flavor of apples but also deepens their sweetness without overwhelming the fruit’s natural essence.
Apples contain a unique blend of sugars and acids that make them ideal for baking. When cooked or baked, apples break down slightly, releasing juices that keep baked goods moist and flavorful. Cinnamon, with its essential oils and aromatic profile, adds complexity to the taste and a cozy aroma that evokes memories of home and holiday gatherings.
Choosing the Right Apples for Baking
Not all apples are created equal when it comes to baking. Some varieties turn to mush, while others retain their shape and provide a firmer texture. For Cinnamon Apple Bread, choosing the right type of apple can elevate the final product significantly.
Here are some of the best apple varieties for baking:
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Granny Smith: Tart and firm, these apples add a nice contrast to the sweetness of the bread.
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Honeycrisp: Juicy and sweet with just enough acidity, they hold up well during baking.
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Braeburn: A great balance of sweet and tart with a dense flesh that keeps its shape.
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Fuji or Gala: These are sweeter options that provide a softer texture once baked.
Using a blend of sweet and tart apples can create a more balanced flavor, giving the loaf depth and complexity.
The Secret to a Perfect Crumb
What sets this bread apart from basic quick breads is its ultra-moist crumb and tender texture. This is achieved through a combination of quality fats, such as vegetable oil or melted butter, and the moisture released from fresh apples during baking. Additionally, incorporating both brown and white sugars lends not only sweetness but also enhances moisture retention thanks to the molasses in brown sugar.
Eggs add structure and richness, while milk provides a subtle creaminess. The flour and leavening agents ensure a light and airy texture, helping the loaf rise beautifully without becoming too dense. A swirl of cinnamon sugar throughout the batter further ensures bursts of flavor in every bite, while a streusel-style crumb topping adds a lovely crunch to the tender loaf.
Tips for Baking Success
Even though this recipe is simple, there are a few techniques and tips that will help guarantee baking success and an even better result every time.
1. Don’t Overmix the Batter
Quick breads rely on gentle mixing. Once the wet and dry ingredients are combined, stir just until you no longer see streaks of flour. Overmixing can lead to a dense and tough texture.
2. Chop Apples Finely
To avoid large chunks that may sink or remain undercooked, it’s important to finely chop your apples. Smaller pieces distribute more evenly throughout the batter, ensuring each slice has apple goodness.
3. Test for Doneness
Because apple bread is moist, it’s essential to bake it thoroughly. Insert a toothpick in the center—if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, it’s ready. If the top is browning too quickly but the center is undercooked, tent the loaf with aluminum foil and continue baking.
4. Let It Cool
Although it’s tempting to slice into the bread while it’s warm, letting it cool allows the structure to set and flavors to develop. Plus, it slices much better when fully cooled.
Versatility and Storage
One of the great things about Cinnamon Apple Bread is how versatile and forgiving it is. You can enjoy it plain, slathered with butter, or even toasted lightly with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup. Some people enjoy adding mix-ins like chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans), raisins, or even a handful of oats on top for texture.
Storage Tips:
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Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
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Refrigerator: Keeps well for up to 5-6 days, but bring to room temperature before serving.
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Freezer: Wrap slices or the whole loaf in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature overnight or microwave individual slices.
Serving Suggestions
This bread is a wonderful all-day treat. Here are a few ideas to enjoy it:
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Morning Wake-Up: Paired with coffee or tea, it’s the ideal breakfast to start the day.
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Brunch Table Star: Serve alongside quiches, fresh fruit, or yogurt parfaits for a well-rounded spread.
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Afternoon Snack: A slice of apple bread and a warm drink is the coziest midday break.
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Dessert Delight: Top with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a simple yet satisfying dessert.
A Seasonal Must-Have
While Cinnamon Apple Bread is delightful year-round, it really shines during the cooler months when apples are in peak season and the desire for cozy, spiced flavors is at its highest. It’s a wonderful recipe to make in large batches for potlucks, holiday gatherings, teacher gifts, or simply for filling your home with the scents of fall.
It’s also a great introduction to baking for beginners. Since it’s a quick bread, there’s no need for kneading or proofing dough. It comes together in one bowl, making it low-effort with a big reward.
Conclusion:
In a world filled with fast-paced living and pre-packaged treats, homemade Cinnamon Apple Bread brings us back to something warm, simple, and truly satisfying. It’s a humble loaf that carries with it the essence of home, the magic of autumn, and the joy of creating something delicious from scratch.
Whether you’re baking it for your family, sharing it with friends, or savoring a slice in a quiet moment, this bread offers more than just flavor it offers comfort. And in that comfort, you’ll find the heart of what makes baking so special.