Picture the air in your kitchen filled with the warm scent of cinnamon and sweet apples, the oven timer about to ding, and a loaf pulling away just slightly at the edges. This Apple Cinnamon Bread brings together tender diced apples, cozy fall spices and a moist, quick-bread texture that works for breakfast, snack or dessert. Easy to make, utterly comforting, and a little slice of seasonal bliss.
What Is Apple Cinnamon Bread / Why It’s Special
Apple Cinnamon Bread is a quick bread no yeast loaded with diced apples and spiced with cinnamon to deliver that nostalgic fall flavor. What makes this version extra special: the apples both add natural moisture and fruit-bite texture, while the cinnamon swirl brings warmth. It’s more than a loaf it’s a moment of seasonal flavor turned into something you can slice, share and savor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 Tbsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 cup milk (2% or whole)
- ⅓ cup vegetable oil
- 2 cups diced apples (about 2 medium apples; Granny Smith, Honeycrisp or Braeburn work great)
Optional Add-Ins / Variations:
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch
- ½ cup raisins or dried cranberries for chew and tartness
- A light drizzle of vanilla glaze (½ cup powdered sugar + 1 Tbsp milk + ½ tsp vanilla) after cooling
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Prep
Preheat your oven to 350 °F (≈ 175 °C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy release.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt and ground cinnamon until evenly distributed.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs lightly. Add the milk and vegetable oil and whisk until fully combined.
Step 4: Combine Wet & Dry + Add Apples
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring just until no dry streaks remain. Fold in the diced apples (and nuts or dried fruit if using) gently, being careful not to over-mix.
Step 5: Bake the Loaf
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake in the pre-heated oven for about 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the centre comes out clean (or with a few moist crumbs). If the top begins to brown too quickly, tent lightly with foil in the final 10 minutes.
Step 6: Cool & Serve
Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then lift out using the parchment if used, and let it cool further on a wire rack for at least 20 minutes before slicing. For extra flavor, serve slightly warm with a pat of butter or a drizzle of glaze.
Tips / Variations / Why You’ll Love It
- Tip: Use fresh apple varieties that hold their shape so you get little bites of apple in each slice.
- Tip: Don’t over-mix the batter once apples are folded in it keeps the loaf tender, not dense.
- Variation: For a nut-free version, skip nuts and add ½ cup shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
- Variation: Swap half the milk for buttermilk to add a subtle tang and boost softness.
- Why You’ll Love It: It’s simple, delicious and brings fall flavor with minimal fuss. Every slice has juicy apple pieces and cozy cinnamon warmth a perfect treat any time of day.
FAQs
Q1. Can I make this bread ahead and freeze slices?
Yes! Once completely cooled, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm briefly before eating.
Q2. How long does this bread stay fresh?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. For best texture, refresh at 300 °F for 5 minutes.
Q3. Can I use applesauce instead of diced apples?
You could, but this version relies on diced apples for texture. If you use applesauce, reduce other liquid slightly and expect a denser, more cake-like crumb.
Q4. What if I don’t have vegetable oil?
You can substitute melted unsalted butter (⅓ cup) for the oil. It adds richer flavor and still works beautifully.
Conclusion
This Apple Cinnamon Bread is a cozy, comforting loaf packed with diced apples, warm cinnamon and easy to make. Whether for breakfast, snack or dessert, it’s sure to become a favorite.
✨ Try it this week and tag @EatTreatsRecipes on Pinterest or Instagram because comfort should always be this delicious!