Apple Cinnamon Bread Recipe

I absolutely adore baking and sharing cozy, comforting treats, so this Apple Cinnamon Bread Recipe quickly became one of my all-time favorites. It’s the perfect blend of sweet apples and warm cinnamon wrapped in a tender, moist bread that fills my kitchen with the most inviting aroma. Whenever I bake this bread, I’m reminded of family gatherings and lazy weekend mornings. It’s simple to make, yet feels special enough to brighten any day.

Why You'll Love This Apple Cinnamon Bread Recipe

From the moment I slice into this bread, I’m greeted by a lovely flavor harmony—sweet, soft apples balanced with the spicy warmth of cinnamon. Each bite melts in my mouth with just the right amount of sweetness and spice, making it impossible not to reach for another slice. It has this incredibly satisfying texture that’s both fluffy and dense enough to feel like a real treat without being heavy.

What I really appreciate about this Apple Cinnamon Bread Recipe is how straightforward it is. If you can crack a couple of eggs and whisk some ingredients together, you’re already halfway done. It’s one of those recipes that doesn’t demand complicated steps or fancy tools, which makes it perfect for both beginners and seasoned bakers looking for a quick, reliable loaf. Plus, the simple mix of pantry staples and fresh apples keeps it fresh and wholesome.

It’s the kind of bread I reach for on chilly afternoons with a mug of tea, or during brunches when I want something comforting yet special. It’s great for sharing at holiday breakfasts or bringing along to potlucks where comfort food reigns supreme. I always find this recipe stands out because it’s familiar yet surprisingly delightful, and it never lasts long in my house!

Ingredients You'll Need

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in delivering that perfectly balanced taste and texture. From the fluffy all-purpose flour to the fresh apples bursting with juice, everything blends harmoniously to create a bread that's moist with just the right crumb. The spices are simple but essential for that signature cinnamon warmth that ties everything together.

• White granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter and balances the tartness of the apples beautifully.
• All-purpose flour: Provides structure and keeps the bread tender yet sturdy.
• Baking powder: Ensures the bread rises perfectly for a light and airy texture.
• Salt: Enhances all the flavors, especially the sweetness and cinnamon spice.
• Eggs: Bind ingredients together and help create a moist crumb.
• Milk: Adds richness and moisture to the batter for a soft finish.
• Vegetable oil: Keeps the bread moist and tender without overwhelming the flavors.
• Apples (diced and peeled): Bring fresh sweetness and juicy pockets throughout the bread.
• Ground cinnamon: Adds the warm, aromatic spice that makes this bread unforgettable.
• Cinnamon and sugar topping: Gives a delightful sweet crust and bursts of cinnamon flavor on top.

Directions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease your loaf pans well. This will make sure your bread doesn’t stick and comes out easily after baking.

Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the sugar, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until everything is evenly combined. Setting this aside, you’ll prepare your wet ingredients next.

Step 3: In a separate large bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, beat together eggs, milk, and vegetable oil until just combined. It's important not to overbeat here—just enough so that they’re well mixed.

Step 4: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring just until the batter is moist and well blended. Be careful to not overmix, as that can make the bread tough. Gently fold in the diced apples and ground cinnamon, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.

Step 5: Pour the batter into your greased loaf pans, filling each about two-thirds full to allow room for the bread to rise without spilling over.

Step 6: In a small bowl, mix together the cinnamon and sugar topping. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the batter in each pan, then use a knife to gently swirl it through the top layer to create a lovely marbled effect.

Step 7: Bake the loaves for about 40 minutes. To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, you’re good to go. Let the bread cool a bit before slicing.

Servings and Timing

This Apple Cinnamon Bread Recipe makes approximately 24 generous servings, perfect for a big gathering or to freeze leftovers for later enjoyment. The prep time is around 10 minutes, which is quick and easy for a recipe this tasty. Baking time is 40 minutes, bringing the total to about 50 minutes from start to finish. I usually let the bread cool for at least 15 minutes before serving because it slices easier and tastes even better when slightly warmed rather than too hot.

How to Serve This Apple Cinnamon Bread Recipe

When I serve this bread, I love slicing it thick with a bit of butter melting right on top—it’s simple but heavenly. If I want to take it up a notch, I’ll add a smear of cream cheese or a drizzle of honey to complement the apple and cinnamon flavors. It also pairs beautifully with a cup of chai tea or a fresh latte for a cozy breakfast or afternoon snack.

For a more festive occasion, I sometimes toast slices lightly and serve them alongside a bowl of vanilla yogurt or warm applesauce for dipping. A sprinkle of chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans on the side adds a nice crunch, and a dusting of powdered sugar on top makes it look extra special if I’m entertaining guests.

This bread is absolutely delightful served at room temperature, but you can warm it in the oven or microwave to bring out the spice aroma even more. It’s ideal for holiday brunches, casual weekend breakfasts, or even a sweet ending to a weeknight dinner. Personally, I find that pairing it with a crisp sparkling cider or light white wine elevates the experience for adult gatherings perfectly.

Variations

One of the best things about this Apple Cinnamon Bread Recipe is how versatile it is. If you want a gluten-free option, swapping the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend works wonderfully—just make sure your baking powder is gluten-free too. I’ve also tried using almond or oat milk to make it dairy-free without sacrificing moisture.

If you’re vegan, replacing the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water per egg) and swapping milk for a plant-based alternative creates a really nice vegan-friendly loaf. I sometimes add a handful of raisins or chopped nuts into the batter for extra texture and bursts of sweetness. For a flavor twist, a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of nutmeg alongside the cinnamon adds lovely depth.

If you’re in a hurry, this recipe adapts well to muffin tins for mini apple cinnamon breads that bake faster—around 20-25 minutes—and make perfect grab-and-go treats. You could even experiment with using different fruits like pears or adding shredded carrots for a subtly different but just as delicious result.

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

After baking, I let the bread cool completely before storing it in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap to keep it fresh. It keeps well at room temperature for about 2 to 3 days, and I always find the flavors deepen even more after resting for a day. If you want to extend its life a bit, storing it in the refrigerator can keep it good for up to a week, but I recommend bringing it back to room temperature before enjoying.

Freezing

This bread freezes beautifully, which is great for making ahead or saving leftovers. I slice the bread first, then wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe zip-top bag or container. This way, I can thaw only as many slices as I need. Frozen apple cinnamon bread stays good for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw at room temperature or pop a frozen slice straight in the toaster or oven for a warm, freshly baked feel.

Reheating

To bring this bread back to life, I love reheating slices in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 325°F for 5-10 minutes until warmed through. Microwaving works in a pinch but can sometimes make the texture a bit gummy, so I avoid using the microwave unless I’m in a hurry. Adding a light pat of butter or cream cheese after reheating really revives the moist, rich texture and enhances the flavor.

FAQs

Can I use different types of apples for this bread?

Absolutely! I usually prefer a firmer apple like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for their tartness and ability to hold shape during baking, but Fuji, Gala, or Braeburn apples also work great. Just make sure to peel and dice them evenly so they distribute well in the batter.

What if I don’t have vegetable oil—can I substitute it?

Yes, you can use other neutral oils like canola or light olive oil, or even melted coconut oil for a slight flavor twist. Some bakers also substitute with melted butter, which gives a richer taste but can make the loaf a bit denser.

Is it possible to make this Apple Cinnamon Bread Recipe without a stand mixer?

Definitely! I often mix this by hand using a whisk and a sturdy spoon or spatula. Just be sure not to overmix once you combine the wet and dry ingredients to keep your bread tender and light.

Can I add nuts or dried fruit to this bread?

Yes, adding chopped walnuts, pecans, or dried cranberries or raisins is a wonderful way to add texture and flavor. I recommend folding in about half a cup of your additions at step 4 after the apples and cinnamon.

How do I know when the bread is fully baked?

The safest way is to insert a toothpick or cake tester into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the bread is done. Also, the top should be golden brown and spring back slightly when pressed.

Conclusion

If you’re craving a comforting, flavorful homemade treat that isn’t fussy but always satisfies, this Apple Cinnamon Bread Recipe is just what you need. It’s my go-to whenever I want something warm, inviting, and perfect for sharing with family and friends. Give it a try—I promise it will fill your home with cozy happiness and have everyone asking for seconds!

Print