This Cinnamon Apple Bread is a tender, moist quick bread with a delightful swirl of cinnamon-sugared apples running throughout. Topped with a sweet cinnamon glaze, this loaf perfectly balances the warmth of spices with the fresh, fruity bite of apples. It’s a comforting treat that captures all the best flavors of autumn in every slice.
Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Apple Bread
- Moist & Tender: The juicy apples mixed with cinnamon and brown sugar keep the bread soft and flavorful.
- Perfect Fall Flavor: It combines the essence of apple pie and cinnamon spice in an easy-to-make quick bread.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Bake it ahead for holidays or busy mornings — it freezes well and tastes great reheated.
- Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples and fresh apples, no complicated techniques needed.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Flour: All-purpose flour forms the base.
- Baking Powder & Salt: For the perfect rise and balance.
- Butter & Sugar: Unsalted butter and granulated sugar for richness and sweetness.
- Eggs & Milk: For moisture and structure.
- Vanilla Extract: Adds warmth and depth.
- Apples: Fresh peeled, cored, and chopped — varieties like Braeburn, Honeycrisp, or Granny Smith work beautifully.
- Brown Sugar & Cinnamon: For the luscious apple cinnamon swirl and topping.
- Glaze: Made with confectioners’ sugar, cinnamon, and water to drizzle on top.
How to Make Cinnamon Apple Bread
- Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8.5 x 4.5-inch loaf pan.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: Beat softened butter, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until light and fluffy.
- Add Eggs: Incorporate eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Alternately add the flour mixture and milk, mixing gently until just combined.
- Prepare Apple Mixture: Toss chopped apples with brown sugar and cinnamon.
- Layer and Swirl: Pour half the batter into the pan, add half the apple mixture, and gently swirl with a knife. Repeat with remaining batter and apple mixture. Sprinkle cinnamon sugar topping over the loaf.
- Bake: For 45-55 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean (some moist crumbs near apples are normal).
- Cool & Glaze: Let cool in the pan 15-20 minutes. Remove to a wire rack, then drizzle with cinnamon glaze. Cool completely before slicing.
Tips for the Best Apple Bread
- Apple Size: Cut apples into small to medium dice for even distribution.
- Apple Variety: Baking apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp provide the best texture and flavor.
- Avoid Overmixing: Mix batter just until combined to keep the bread tender.
- Storage: Keep covered at room temperature for 2-3 days or refrigerate up to 6 days.
- Freezing: Wrap tightly and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before serving.
Why Does Quick Bread Crack?
Cracking on top is normal! It happens because the crust sets before the inside finishes rising, creating natural splits.
Final Thoughts
This Cinnamon Apple Bread is the perfect way to celebrate apple season with minimal effort. Whether for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, its rich cinnamon-apple swirl and sweet glaze make it a crowd-pleaser. Bake a loaf, and fill your kitchen with the warm, cozy aroma of fall!