If you’re looking to cozy up your kitchen and fill your home with the sweet, spicy aroma of fall, this Cinnamon Apple Bread: A Cozy Fall Favorite Recipe has got you covered. It’s a moist, tender loaf bursting with tender apple pieces and just the right hint of cinnamon and nutmeg that makes every bite feel like an autumn hug. Whether you’re baking for a special brunch, a casual snack, or a gift to someone you love, this bread is simple to make and incredibly satisfying—truly the kind of recipe you’ll want to bake on repeat all season long.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for straightforward ingredients that work beautifully together to create the flavor, texture, and warmth that make this bread so irresistible. Each component is essential, from the tenderizing oil and mix of sugars to the fragrant spices and juicy apples that bring it all to life.
- All-purpose flour (1 ¾ cups): Provides structure and the perfect crumb for tender bread.
- Baking soda (1 teaspoon) and baking powder (½ teaspoon): These leavening agents help the bread rise and stay light.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- Cinnamon (1 teaspoon): The star spice that adds warmth and autumn goodness.
- Nutmeg (¼ teaspoon): Adds a subtle depth that complements the cinnamon flawlessly.
- Eggs (2 large): Bind ingredients together and add richness.
- Neutral oil (½ cup): Keeps the bread moist without overpowering flavors.
- Milk (â…“ cup): Adds moisture and tenderness; you can use dairy or plant-based.
- Granulated sugar (¾ cup): Sweetens while maintaining a light texture.
- Light brown sugar (¼ cup): Brings a slight molasses flavor and extra moisture.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances sweetness and aroma.
- Peeled, diced apples (1 ½ cups): The juicy, fresh component that makes the bread so bright and flavorful.
- Chopped walnuts or pecans (optional, ½ cup): Adds a pleasant crunch and nutty flavor.
- Brown sugar (2 tablespoons) and ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon) for topping: Create a sweet, spicy swirl that finishes the bread perfectly.
How to Make Cinnamon Apple Bread: A Cozy Fall Favorite Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Begin by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s perfectly preheated when your batter is ready. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. This step ensures the bread doesn’t stick and bakes evenly.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
Whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a large bowl. Combining your dry ingredients thoroughly at this stage helps distribute the leavening and spices evenly throughout the bread, ensuring every bite has that cozy fall flavor.
Step 3: Blend the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, neutral oil, milk, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until you have a smooth, silky mixture. This blend provides moisture and sweetness and helps the bread achieve its tender crumb.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and stir just until combined. Don’t overmix—just enough to bring everything together. Overmixing can develop gluten and lead to a tougher bread, so gentle folding is key here.
Step 5: Fold in Apples and Nuts
Add the diced apples and your choice of nuts, if using, gently folding them into the batter. These tender bits of apple will keep the bread deliciously moist and fruity, while the nuts add a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft crumb.
Step 6: Layer and Swirl the Batter
Pour half the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over this first layer to create that classic sweet spice ribbon. Then dollop on the remaining batter and use a spatula or knife to gently swirl the cinnamon sugar into the top layer. This swirl creates the iconic look and taste that makes this Cinnamon Apple Bread: A Cozy Fall Favorite Recipe truly irresistible.
Step 7: Bake Until Golden
Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. When done, let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step allows the loaf to set, making it easier to slice without crumbling.
How to Serve Cinnamon Apple Bread: A Cozy Fall Favorite Recipe
Garnishes
To really elevate your serving game, consider topping slices with a light smear of butter or cream cheese. Even a drizzle of honey or maple syrup adds a luscious touch. For an extra festive feel, sprinkle a little cinnamon sugar on top right before serving or add a dollop of whipped cream for a dessert twist.
Side Dishes
This bread pairs wonderfully with a steaming cup of coffee, chai tea, or hot apple cider, making it perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack. For a heartier meal, serve alongside a palette-cleansing salad or a bowl of spiced pumpkin soup, which balances the sweetness of the bread beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Try slicing the bread into thin pieces and toasting them lightly for a warm, crisp bite. You can also turn it into French toast or use it as a base for a decadent bread pudding. For gatherings, arrange slices on a platter with fresh apple slices, nuts, and a sprinkling of cinnamon to create a stunning fall-inspired display.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled completely, store your leftover Cinnamon Apple Bread: A Cozy Fall Favorite Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If your kitchen is warm, keeping it in the fridge can extend freshness for up to a week, though the texture may firm slightly.
Freezing
This bread freezes beautifully. Wrap the loaf or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. You can keep it frozen for up to three months without loss of flavor or texture, making it a perfect make-ahead treat for busy days.
Reheating
To enjoy a slice fresh from the freezer, simply thaw it at room temperature or warm gently in a toaster oven or microwave. A quick heat-up brings back the soft, cozy texture and enhances the cinnamon aroma, making it taste just-baked.
FAQs
Can I use any type of apple for this bread?
Absolutely! Tart apples like Granny Smith add a nice tang that balances the sweetness, while sweeter varieties like Fuji or Gala bring more mellow flavors. Just make sure to peel and dice them evenly for the best texture.
Is it possible to make this bread gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Look for blends that include xanthan gum or add a teaspoon yourself to help with structure, but note the texture might be slightly different.
Can I skip the nuts if I have allergies?
Definitely. The nuts are optional and can be left out without sacrificing the flavor or moisture. The bread will still be delicious and just as comforting.
How do I know when the bread is fully baked?
The best test is inserting a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, your bread is done. If there’s wet batter, bake for a few more minutes and check again.
Can I add other spices besides cinnamon and nutmeg?
Feel free! A pinch of ground cloves, allspice, or cardamom can add interesting layers to the flavor. Just use them sparingly to avoid overpowering the classic warmth of the cinnamon and apples.
Final Thoughts
This Cinnamon Apple Bread: A Cozy Fall Favorite Recipe is one of those timeless treats that never fails to brighten a chilly morning or add comfort to a quiet afternoon. I promise, once you try this loaf, it will quickly become a beloved staple in your baking repertoire. So grab those apples and get ready to fill your home with the delicious scents and flavors that celebrate the best of fall.
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Cinnamon Apple Bread: A Cozy Fall Favorite Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 10 slices
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Cinnamon Apple Bread is a cozy fall favorite, perfect for enjoying a warm slice with your morning coffee or as an afternoon treat. Moist and flavorful, this bread combines sweet cinnamon and diced apples with a hint of nutmeg, creating a comforting aroma and taste that you’ll want to bake on repeat throughout the season.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 ¾ cups (220g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
Wet Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup (120ml) neutral oil
- â…“ cup (80ml) milk (dairy or plant-based)
- ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
- ¼ cup (50g) light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Add-ins & Topping
- 1 ½ cups peeled and diced apples (about 1 large apple)
- Optional: ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to ensure the bread doesn’t stick.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg until evenly combined.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate large bowl, beat the eggs, then add the neutral oil, milk, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until the batter is smooth and the sugars have dissolved.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently just until everything is combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.
- Add Apples and Nuts: Fold in the peeled and diced apples along with the optional chopped walnuts or pecans, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.
- Layer and Swirl: Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle the mixture of brown sugar and ground cinnamon evenly over the batter. Pour the remaining batter on top and gently swirl with a knife to create a cinnamon-sugar swirl effect.
- Bake the Bread: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once done, let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- Use sweet, crisp apples like Fuji or Honeycrisp for the best flavor and texture.
- Substitute milk with almond, oat, or soy milk to make this recipe dairy-free.
- For extra crunch and flavor, toast the nuts before adding them to the batter.
- Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
- This bread freezes well; wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
