There’s something undeniably cozy about the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through the home, especially when it’s infused with the warm spices of cinnamon and the sweet notes of apples. This Apple Cinnamon Bread Recipe is not just another bread recipe; it’s a delightful fusion of flavors that brings comfort and nostalgia with every slice. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack, this bread is simple to make and comes together quickly with ingredients you likely have on hand. Whether served warm with butter or toasted with a sprinkle of sugar, this apple cinnamon bread is bound to become a family favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Apple Cinnamon Bread Recipe stands out for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly versatile. You can enjoy it plain, top it with cream cheese, or pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delectable dessert. The combination of tart apples and aromatic cinnamon creates a perfect balance that is both satisfying and refreshing. Each bite offers a moist, tender crumb that melts in your mouth, making it hard to resist reaching for a second slice.
Another fantastic aspect of this recipe is its simplicity. Even if you’re an inexperienced baker, you’ll find that the steps are straightforward and the ingredients are easy to find. The use of sour cream in the batter not only adds a delightful tang but also ensures a moist loaf that stays fresh for days. Plus, the addition of nuts (optional) gives an extra crunch and flavor dimension, elevating the bread from good to great.
Lastly, this recipe is an excellent way to use up those apples that might be sitting in your fridge. Whether you have a bounty from apple-picking season or just a few leftover from a grocery run, this bread is an ideal solution. You can experiment with different types of apples, such as tart Granny Smith or sweet Honeycrisp, to discover your perfect flavor profile.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
If you’re looking for a new recipe to impress friends and family, look no further. This Apple Cinnamon Bread Recipe is not only delicious but also visually appealing. The golden-brown crust, sprinkled with cinnamon sugar, creates an inviting presentation that beckons to be sliced. It’s perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or simply enjoying at home on a quiet weekend.
Moreover, baking this bread is an experience worth sharing. The process of mixing ingredients, folding in the apples, and watching the loaf rise in the oven is therapeutic and fun. It’s also a wonderful opportunity to get children involved in the kitchen, teaching them basic baking skills while creating lasting memories.
Finally, the nutritional benefits of apples shouldn’t be overlooked. Packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, they contribute to a healthy diet. With this bread, you can indulge in a delicious treat while still feeling good about what you’re eating. The inclusion of nuts adds healthy fats and protein, making it a wholesome choice for breakfast or snack time.
Ingredients and Necessary Utensils
Before you start baking, make sure you have the following ingredients and utensils ready:
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup sour cream
- 2 cups peeled and diced apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (for topping)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for topping)
Recommended Utensils
- 9×5 inch loaf pan
- Mixing bowls (both large and medium)
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wire rack (for cooling)
Having these ingredients and tools on hand will ensure a smooth baking experience. Remember to pre-measure your ingredients for efficiency!
Detailed Recipe Steps
- Preheat your oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats, grease and flour your loaf pan to prevent sticking.
- Prepare dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. This step is crucial for even distribution of leavening agents.
- Cream butter and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes.
- Add eggs and vanilla: Incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract for added flavor.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the sour cream. Start and end with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined to avoid overmixing.
- Fold in apples and nuts: Gently fold in the diced apples and optional nuts until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Transfer to pan: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula for an even bake.
- Add topping: In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and ground cinnamon together. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the batter for an extra sweet crust.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it towards the end to prevent overbaking.
- Cool: Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
**Pro Tip:** For a bit of extra flavor, consider experimenting with spices such as nutmeg or cloves, or add in dried fruits like raisins for additional texture.
FAQs
What type of apples are best for Apple Cinnamon Bread?
Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples are excellent choices for this recipe. Their tartness complements the sweetness of the bread beautifully, but feel free to experiment with your favorite varieties!
Can I make this bread gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to choose one that is designed for baking for the best results.
How do I store leftover Apple Cinnamon Bread?
Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze it for longer storage.
Can I add other ingredients to this bread?
Absolutely! Feel free to add raisins, dried cranberries, or even chocolate chips for a fun twist on this classic recipe.
Conclusion
This Apple Cinnamon Bread Recipe is a delightful way to embrace the flavors of fall any time of the year. Its moist texture, paired with the sweetness of apples and the warmth of cinnamon, creates a comforting treat that everyone will love. Whether you enjoy it as part of breakfast, a snack, or dessert, it’s sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire.
We invite you to try this recipe and share your thoughts in the comments below. Don’t forget to share this article with your friends and family, and let the delightful aroma of apple cinnamon bread fill your home!
For more delicious ideas, check out this Slow Cooker Sweet and Sour Meatballs, and explore other amazing recipes on our blog!

Apple Cinnamon Bread
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Loaf Pan
- Spatula
- Whisk
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups All-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon Baking soda
- 1 teaspoon Baking powder
- 1 teaspoon Ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon Salt
- ½ cup Unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup Granulated sugar
- 2 Large eggs
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
- ½ cup Sour cream
- 2 cups Peeled and diced apples (e.g. Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- ½ cup Chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 2 tablespoons Brown sugar (for topping)
- 1 teaspoon Ground cinnamon (for topping)
Instructions
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the sour cream. Begin and end with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.
- Fold in the diced apples and chopped nuts (if using) until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and ground cinnamon together. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the batter.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.