As the crisp breeze of autumn sets in, there’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked goods wafting through your home. Today, we bring you a recipe that not only fills your kitchen with the comforting scent of cinnamon but also tantalizes your taste buds with the perfect blend of sweet apples and warm spices. Our Apple Cinnamon Bread is a celebration of fall flavors and an invitation to embrace the joy of seasonal baking.
Who Will Love This Recipe?
This recipe is ideal for both seasoned bakers and those just dipping their toes into the world of homemade goodies. The simplicity of the ingredients and the straightforward instructions make it accessible for beginners, while the rich flavors will satisfy the most discerning palates. Whether you’re baking for a cozy family breakfast or a weekend treat, this Apple Cinnamon Bread is a delightful choice that pairs well with a steaming cup of coffee or tea.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1/3 cup brown sugar (not packed)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2/3 cup white sugar
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 2 eggs
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 3/4 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 apple, peeled and chopped
Kitchen Equipment
Before diving into the recipe, gather the following kitchen essentials:
- Electric Mixer
- Mixing Bowls
- 9 x 5-inch Loaf Pan
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Peeler and Chopping Board
- Oven
Directions
1. Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to a toasty 350 degrees. Grease and flour your 9 x 5-inch loaf pan, ensuring an easy release for your beautifully baked bread.
2. Sugar and Spice Mix
In a small bowl, combine 1/3 cup of brown sugar with a teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Set this delightful mixture aside—it’s about to become the essence of your Apple Cinnamon Bread.
3. Creamy Bliss
In a larger mixing bowl, beat together 2/3 cup of white sugar and 1/2 cup of softened butter using an electric mixer. The goal? Smooth and creamy perfection. Add the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated, then introduce the fragrant vanilla extract to the mix.
4. Flour Power
In a separate bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 3/4 teaspoons of baking powder. Gently stir this into your creamed butter mixture. Once incorporated, introduce 1/2 cup of milk and blend until your batter is irresistibly smooth.
5. Layered Goodness
Now comes the fun part—building layers of flavor. Pour half of your batter into the prepared loaf pan, then add half of your chopped apples and half of the brown sugar-cinnamon mixture. Lightly pat the apples into the batter.
6. Repeat and Swirl
Add the remaining batter over the apple layer, then top it with the rest of the apples and more brown sugar-cinnamon goodness. Gently pat the apples into the batter and swirl the brown sugar mixture through the apples using your finger or a spoon.
7. Bake to Perfection
Pop your creation into the preheated oven and let it bake for 30 to 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The anticipation is real!
Kitchen Tips and Variations
- Shortcut Alert: Feeling pressed for time? Use store-bought apple pie spice instead of individually measuring cinnamon and brown sugar. It’s a time-saving hack without compromising on flavor.
- Make It Nutty: Elevate your Apple Cinnamon Bread by adding a handful of chopped nuts to the batter. Pecans or walnuts work wonders for that extra crunch.
- Gluten-Free Option: Swap out the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free alternative for a delightful gluten-free version of this recipe.
Leftover Love
Wondering how to store the remnants of your Apple Cinnamon Bread? Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it at room temperature for up to three days. For longer freshness, freeze slices individually and reheat in the toaster for a quick and delicious snack.
Perfect Pairings
Enjoy your Apple Cinnamon Bread with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an indulgent treat. Pair it with a cup of spiced chai tea or a hot apple cider for the ultimate fall flavor experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use any type of apple for this recipe?
A: Absolutely! While we recommend a sweet and crisp variety like Honeycrisp or Gala, feel free to experiment with your favorite apples to suit your taste.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Certainly! Prepare the batter and refrigerate overnight. When ready to bake, bring it to room temperature and follow the baking instructions.
Q: Can I substitute regular sugar for brown sugar?
A: While brown sugar adds a unique depth of flavor, you can use regular sugar if needed. However, the molasses in brown sugar enhances the overall richness of the bread.