As the first hint of autumn fills the air, I find myself craving something warm and comforting. That’s when I turn to this Warm Cinnamon-Spiced Apple Bread, a delightful recipe that envelops your kitchen in the sweet aroma of cinnamon and soft Granny Smith apples. This easy baking project is perfect for anyone looking to impress without stress, making it a kind companion for novice bakers. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you’ll whip up a beautifully moist loaf that’s not only a crowd-pleaser but also freezable for future indulgence. So, are you ready to fill your home with this heartwarming scent and create a delicious treat to share with loved ones? Let’s dive in!
Why is this apple bread irresistible?
Moist and Flavorful: The combination of tender Granny Smith apples and warm spices creates a delightful, moist loaf that’s hard to resist!
Easy and Quick: This recipe is incredibly straightforward, making it perfect for novice bakers eager to create something impressive without the hassle.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Ideal for sharing at gatherings or holiday events, this bread is a surefire way to win over family and friends.
Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it warm with a spread of butter or cream cheese, or even as a delightful breakfast alongside a cup of tea or coffee. For more delicious apple recipes, check out Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli or our Salted Caramel Apple.
Freezable Goodness: Make a loaf ahead of time and freeze it for a future treat, ensuring that comfort is just a slice away!
Cinnamon-Spiced Apple Bread Ingredients
For the Batter
- All-Purpose Flour – Aids in achieving the bread’s structure and crumb.
- Baking Soda – This leavening agent helps the bread rise beautifully.
- Salt – Enhances the flavors, making each bite delightful.
- Ground Cinnamon – The star spice that brings warmth and coziness to your bread.
- Ground Nutmeg – Adds an earthy sweetness that complements the apples perfectly.
- Ground Cloves – Offers a complex aroma that balances the overall sweetness.
- Unsalted Butter – Ensures a rich texture and moisture in every slice.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the bread and contributes to a light, airy texture.
- Large Eggs – Acts as a binder, contributing to the bread’s rise and overall structure.
- Vanilla Extract – Elevates the flavor profile with its aromatic depth.
- Sour Cream – Provides moisture and a slight tang, creating a tender crumb.
- Granny Smith Apples – Freshly chopped, they add juiciness and a tart sweetness throughout.
- Chopped Walnuts or Pecans (optional) – Introduces nutty crunch, contrasting wonderfully with the softness of the bread.
For the Topping
- Turbinado Sugar – Sprinkled on top for a delightful crunchy sweet crust, making this cinnamon-spiced apple bread extra special.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cinnamon-Spiced Apple Bread
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×5-inch loaf pan by greasing it with butter or non-stick spray, then dusting it with flour. This ensures your delicious cinnamon-spiced apple bread will release easily after baking, providing a perfect presentation for your homemade treat.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, ½ teaspoon of salt, 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and ¼ teaspoon of ground cloves. This aromatic blend creates a warm spice layer that perfectly complements the Granny Smith apples, so set it aside while you work on the wet ingredients.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together ½ cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. This aeration will help your cinnamon-spiced apple bread rise beautifully, creating a delightful texture when baked.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in 2 large eggs, one at a time, making sure to fully incorporate each egg before adding the next. Then, gently stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. This step enhances the flavor of your bread, adding depth that will make each bite irresistible as the mixture comes together.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with ½ cup of sour cream. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until everything is combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf, so stop as soon as no dry bits remain visible to ensure a light, tender crumb in your cinnamon-spiced apple bread.
Step 6: Fold in Apples and Nuts
Gently fold in 2 cups of chopped Granny Smith apples and, if desired, ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans. Use a spatula to carefully mix until the apples and nuts are evenly distributed throughout the batter. This step will add moistness and flavor, transforming your bread into a comforting, sweet treat.
Step 7: Transfer to Loaf Pan
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula for an even surface. For an extra touch of sweetness and crunch, sprinkle 2 tablespoons of turbinado sugar evenly across the top of the batter, ensuring your cinnamon-spiced apple bread has a delightful crust once baked.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The top should be a beautiful golden brown, and your kitchen will be filled with the inviting aroma of cinnamon and apples as the bread bakes to perfection.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the cinnamon-spiced apple bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling phase is crucial for making sure your loaf holds its shape and is ready to slice into warm, comforting pieces to share with family and friends.
Expert Tips for Cinnamon-Spiced Apple Bread
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Butter Softening: Ensure your butter is perfectly softened for easy creaming with sugar, which helps incorporate air and achieve a fluffy texture.
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Gentle Mixing: Be cautious not to overmix after adding the dry ingredients; this can result in a dense loaf. Stop mixing as soon as no dry bits remain visible.
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Fresh Apples: Use firm Granny Smith apples for a delightful tartness that balances the sweetness of the bread; avoid mushy apples that can alter texture.
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Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on your loaf near the end of the baking time; a toothpick should come out clean to prevent over-drying the lovely cinnamon-spiced apple bread.
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Cool Completely: Allow your loaf to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing, as this ensures a neat and beautiful presentation for serving.
What to Serve with Warm Cinnamon-Spiced Apple Bread?
Warm, comforting slices of apple bread deserve delightful companions to elevate your meal experience.
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Creamy Butter: Spread a generous layer of creamy butter on warm slices for a rich, comforting finish that pairs beautifully with the spices.
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Rich Cream Cheese: A tangy cream cheese spread adds a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the apple bread, creating a luxurious treat.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright, zesty fruits like berries or citrus provide refreshing acidity, perfectly balancing the warm, spiced flavors of the bread.
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Nutty Granola: A sprinkle of crunchy granola on top adds texture and nutty flavor, making for a satisfying breakfast or snack.
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Warm Spiced Tea: Pair each slice with a cup of spiced tea, like chai or apple cinnamon, to enhance the cozy fall vibes that the apple bread evokes.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve a warm slice topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert experience that elevates your apple bread to new heights.
Indulging in these pairings will make every bite of your warm cinnamon-spiced apple bread even more enjoyable!
Make Ahead Options
These Warm Cinnamon-Spiced Apple Bread loaves are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix the dry ingredients (flour, baking soda, salt, and spices) and store them in an airtight container. Next, you can refrigerate the wet mixture (butter, sugar, eggs, vanilla, and sour cream) separately. When you’re ready to bake, combine both mixtures and fold in the apples and optional nuts, then proceed with baking as directed. This ensures that your warm cinnamon-spiced apple bread is just as delicious and fresh, providing you with a cozy treat with minimal effort on your busy mornings.
Cinnamon-Spiced Apple Bread Variations
Feel free to experiment with this recipe and personalize it to your taste—we all have different preferences that make our culinary adventures unique!
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Sweeter Apples: Try using Honeycrisp or Fuji apples for a sweeter, more fragrant bread. These varieties enhance the natural flavors and lend a delightful sweetness.
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Dairy-Free Option: Substitute coconut yogurt or almond milk in place of sour cream to make it dairy-free. This not only caters to dietary needs but also adds a subtle coconut flavor.
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Flavor Boost: Add ½ teaspoon of vanilla or almond extract for a deeper and more complex flavor profile. It elevates each slice with a delightful aromatic twist.
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Nut-Free Version: Omit the walnuts or pecans entirely if you have nut allergies or prefer a smoother texture. The bread will still be deliciously moist and satisfying!
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Spiced Twist: Include a pinch of cardamom or ginger for an extra layer of warmth and spice. These spices can transport your taste buds to a cozy, autumn-inspired experience.
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Fruity Additions: Mix in ½ cup of dried cranberries or raisins for a sweet, chewy surprise. They complement the apple flavor beautifully and add a lovely textural contrast.
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Apple Cider Enhancement: Replace half of the sour cream with apple cider for a delightful seasonal twist that brings out the essence of fall even more. Your kitchen will smell divine!
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Chocolate Surprise: Fold in a handful of dark chocolate chips for a sweet indulgence. This unexpected pairing with the apple and spice can create a comforting dessert bread perfect for sharing.
For a delightful finish, enjoy this bread with a drizzle of maple syrup or honey, or pair it with a warm cup of tea. Consider other delicious apple-centric treats such as Apple Brownies Chewy or get adventurous with some Chocolate Zucchini Bread!
How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon-Spiced Apple Bread
Room Temperature: Store your bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps it fresh and moist while allowing those lovely flavors to develop.
Fridge: If you prefer longer storage, wrap the bread tightly with plastic wrap and place it in the fridge for up to a week. Be sure to bring it back to room temperature before serving for the best taste.
Freezer: For longer preservation, freeze the cinnamon-spiced apple bread in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Slice the bread before freezing to make it easier to grab a piece whenever you crave a comforting treat.
Reheating: To reheat, microwave a slice for about 10-15 seconds or warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until heated through—enjoy the delightful aroma all over again!
Cinnamon-Spiced Apple Bread Recipe FAQs
What type of apples work best for this recipe?
Absolutely! I recommend using Granny Smith apples for their tartness, which complements the sweetness of the bread beautifully. However, you can also opt for Honeycrisp or Fuji apples for a sweeter twist. Just ensure they are firm and fresh, avoiding any that are mushy or overripe.
How should I store the cinnamon-spiced apple bread?
You can easily store your bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the fridge for up to a week. This will help retain its moisture, ensuring every slice is just as delicious as the first!
Can I freeze cinnamon-spiced apple bread?
Absolutely! To freeze the bread, slice it into individual pieces and wrap each slice in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. This way, it will stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just let it thaw in the fridge overnight or simply microwave a slice for 10-15 seconds.
What should I do if the bread comes out too dense?
If your cinnamon-spiced apple bread is too dense, it could be due to overmixing the batter after adding the dry ingredients. It’s crucial to mix just until combined. To prevent this, the next time you bake, mix gently and carefully fold in the apples and nuts. Always remember: a moist and tender crumb is what we’re aiming for!
Is this recipe nut-free?
Yes! This recipe is naturally nut-free, especially if you omit the chopped walnuts or pecans. Just make sure to check that any added ingredients (like vanilla or baking soda) are free from cross-contamination if you have allergies. It’s important to enjoy your delicious cinnamon-spiced apple bread worry-free!
Can I use a different type of flour?
Certainly! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend if needed. Be cautious, though, as different flours can affect the texture and moisture of your bread. You may need to experiment a bit to find the right consistency, as gluten-free flours often require additional binding agents like xanthan gum.
Cinnamon-Spiced Apple Bread: A Cozy Fall Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×5-inch loaf pan by greasing it and dusting it with flour.
- Whisk together all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and ground cloves in a medium bowl.
- Cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy using an electric mixer.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time and then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with sour cream.
- Fold in chopped Granny Smith apples and walnuts or pecans.
- Pour the batter into the loaf pan and sprinkle turbinado sugar on top.
- Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
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