If you crave a warm, sweet treat that’s simple to make, you’ve found it! My Easy Cinnamon Apple Bread recipe is packed with flavor and perfect for any occasion. With just a few basic ingredients like fresh apples, cinnamon, and brown sugar, this delightful loaf will impress family and friends. Let’s dive into the ingredients and get baking your new favorite snack!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup packed brown sugar
– 2 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup buttermilk, at room temperature
– 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and chopped
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (for topping)
To make my Easy Cinnamon Apple Bread, I focus on quality ingredients. The all-purpose flour gives the bread structure. Baking powder and baking soda add the right lift. Sea salt enhances the flavors.
For warmth, I use ground cinnamon and nutmeg. These spices make the bread cozy and inviting. Butter adds richness, while brown sugar brings sweetness. Eggs help with binding, and vanilla adds a sweet aroma. Buttermilk keeps the bread moist and tender.
Apples are the star of this recipe. I love using Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples for their crispness and tang. If you want a crunch, add walnuts or pecans. Finish with a sprinkle of granulated sugar on top for a sweet crust. Each ingredient plays a key role in creating a delicious loaf.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan with cooking spray or butter. Line it with parchment paper. This makes it easy to take out the bread later.
2. Mix your dry ingredients. In a medium bowl, whisk together:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Set this dry mixture aside while you work on the wet ingredients.
3. Prepare the wet mixture. In a large bowl, use an electric mixer. Cream together:
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
– 1 cup packed brown sugar
Beat them on medium speed until light and fluffy. This will take about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add eggs and vanilla. Mix in:
– 2 large eggs (one at a time)
Make sure to mix well after each egg. Then stir in:
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
5. Combine wet and dry ingredients. Slowly add the dry mixture and:
– 1/2 cup buttermilk (room temperature)
Alternate adding them, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix gently until just combined. Do not overmix!
6. Fold in apples and nuts. Carefully add:
– 2 medium apples (peeled, cored, and chopped)
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Use a rubber spatula to fold them in. Make sure they are evenly mixed.
Baking Process
1. Pour the batter into the loaf pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly. Smooth the top so it looks nice.
2. Add the sugar topping. Sprinkle:
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
Evenly over the top of the batter. This creates a sweet, crunchy crust!
3. Bake the bread. Place it in the oven. Bake for 50-60 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, it’s done!
4. Cool the bread. Let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then carefully move it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips & Tricks
Baking Tips
– Best practices for mixing ingredients: Always mix dry and wet ingredients in separate bowls. This helps keep the baking powder and soda active.
– How to avoid overmixing: Mix until just combined. You want a few lumps to keep the bread light. Overmixing makes the bread dense and tough.
– Ensuring even baking: Spread the batter evenly in the pan. Use a rubber spatula to smooth the top. This ensures it bakes evenly.
Presentation Tips
– Slicing and serving suggestions: Once the bread cools, slice it into thick pieces. Serve it on a rustic wooden board for a warm touch.
– Adding garnishes like powdered sugar or whipped cream cheese: Dust the top with powdered sugar for a lovely look. Pair it with whipped cream cheese for a creamy, delightful bite.
Variations
Ingredient Swaps
You can make easy swaps in this recipe to suit your taste.
– Using different types of apples: Granny Smith gives a tart kick. Honeycrisp adds a sweet touch. Feel free to mix them too!
– Alternative nuts or seeds: If you don’t like walnuts or pecans, try almonds or sunflower seeds. Each brings a unique crunch to the bread.
– Adjusting spices and sweetness: Want more spice? Add ginger or cloves. Prefer a sweeter bread? Increase the brown sugar by a quarter cup.
Dietary Adjustments
You can also tweak the recipe for special diets.
– Gluten-free options: Use a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure it has xanthan gum for structure.
– Dairy-free substitutions: Replace buttermilk with almond milk or coconut milk mixed with a splash of vinegar. Use dairy-free butter for a complete dairy-free treat.
These variations make the recipe fun and personal. Experiment to find your perfect blend!
Storage Info
Cooling and Storing
After baking your cinnamon apple bread, let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This helps the bread set and makes it easier to remove. Next, transfer the bread to a wire rack. Let it cool completely before storing.
For short-term storage, keep the bread at room temperature. Wrap it in plastic wrap or foil. This keeps it fresh for up to 3 days. If you notice any moisture, it’s better to store it in a paper bag. Avoid putting it in the fridge, as cold air can make the bread dry.
Freezing Instructions
To freeze your cinnamon apple bread, first, let it cool completely. Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. This keeps air out and prevents freezer burn. Your bread can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
When you’re ready to enjoy it, take the bread out of the freezer. Remove the wrap and let it thaw at room temperature. For a warm treat, you can reheat slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. For the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C) and warm the bread for about 10 minutes. Enjoy the warm, comforting aroma again!
FAQs
Common Questions
How long does cinnamon apple bread last?
Cinnamon apple bread can last about 3 to 4 days at room temperature. Just cover it well to keep it fresh. If you store it in the fridge, it can last up to a week.
Can I use a different pan size?
Yes, you can use a different pan size. A smaller pan makes a thicker loaf, while a larger one makes a thinner one. Adjust the baking time as needed.
What can I do if my bread is too dense?
If your bread is dense, try mixing the batter less. Overmixing can cause this problem. Also, check your baking powder and baking soda for freshness.
How to tell when the bread is fully baked?
To check if the bread is done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, your bread is ready. It should also feel firm to the touch.
This blog post covered the best ingredients and steps to create cinnamon apple bread. You learned how to mix and bake for perfect results. We shared useful tips for presentation and variations to match your taste.
Try different apples or nuts to make it your own. Follow our storage and freezing tips to enjoy your bread longer. Enjoy baking and experimenting with this delicious recipe!
