Apple Bread

Apple bread always takes me back to quiet Sunday mornings when I crave something sweet yet simple to enjoy with my coffee. I remember once baking a loaf when my plans got cancelled and I had a few extra apples sitting in the fruit bowl. I didn’t have a big agenda that day, so I decided to experiment and what came out of the oven was this cozy, cinnamon-scented loaf that was gone by the next day.

From that moment, this apple bread became a staple in my kitchen during apple season. It’s moist and tender, filled with fresh apple pieces in every bite, and has that lovely sugary crust on top that makes it taste like a treat from a local bakery. It’s one of those recipes that makes the whole house smell like a warm hug.

Ingredients

Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!

• Apples – Provide juicy bursts of flavor and keep the bread incredibly moist
• All-purpose flour – Forms the base structure of the loaf
• Granulated sugar – Sweetens the batter and helps develop that beautiful crust
• Brown sugar – Adds a caramel-like depth and enhances the apple flavor
• Baking powder – Gives the bread lift and keeps it light
• Eggs – Bind the ingredients and add richness
• Cinnamon – Brings a warm, comforting spice that pairs perfectly with apples
• Nutmeg – A pinch adds a deeper, slightly nutty warmth
• Salt – Balances the sweetness and brings out the flavors
• Vegetable oil – Keeps the loaf moist without overpowering the flavor
• Vanilla extract – Enhances the aroma and ties all the warm flavors together
• Milk – Loosens the batter and adds a soft crumb texture

Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls – To separate dry and wet ingredients before combining
• Whisk – Perfect for evenly mixing the batter without overworking it
• Rubber spatula – Helps fold in the apples and scrape every bit of batter
• Loaf pan (9×5 inch) – The ideal size for a tall, hearty loaf
• Measuring cups and spoons – Ensures precision for perfect texture
• Cooling rack – Allows the bread to cool evenly and prevents soggy bottoms
• Knife and peeler – To prep the apples into small chunks

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

I begin by preheating my oven to 350°F. I grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Prep the Apples

I peel and chop the apples into small chunks. I like to keep them bite-sized so they don’t sink to the bottom and stay tender throughout the loaf.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, I whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. This helps ensure all the spices are evenly distributed.

Step 4: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, I whisk the eggs, granulated sugar, brown sugar, oil, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and slightly frothy.

Step 5: Make the Batter

I slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir gently until just combined. I avoid overmixing here so the bread stays tender.

Step 6: Fold in the Apples

Using a spatula, I fold in the chopped apples evenly throughout the batter. The chunks should be well distributed for an even bite every time.

Step 7: Bake

I pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Sometimes, I sprinkle a little cinnamon sugar over the top for a crunchy crust. Then I bake it for about 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Once baked, I let the loaf cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a cooling rack to cool completely. That’s when it slices best!

Tips

I like to use a mix of apple types like one tart Granny Smith and one sweet Gala for a well-balanced flavor

If you want a crunch, fold in a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans

Let the bread cool completely before slicing so it holds its shape

For extra flavor, sprinkle cinnamon sugar on top before baking

Ways to Serve

I love it warm with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey in the morning

It makes a cozy afternoon snack with coffee or tea

Try toasting a slice and serving it with cream cheese for a creamy twist

Wrap it up and gift it during the holidays it’s a crowd-pleaser!

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I store apple bread?

I usually keep it tightly wrapped at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the fridge for up to a week.

Can I freeze apple bread?

Yes, I wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil and freeze it for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight at room temperature.

What apples work best in apple bread?

I like a mix of firm and sweet apples Granny Smith, Fuji, or Honeycrisp are my go-to choices.

Why did my apple bread sink in the middle?

It may have been underbaked or overmixed. I recommend checking with a toothpick and avoiding over-stirring the batter.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you give this cozy apple bread recipe a try! It’s one of those comforting bakes that never disappoints and fills your kitchen with the most delicious aroma. Don’t forget to share your version with me or save the recipe for your next baking day.

Happy Cooking!

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