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Cinnamon Apple Bread Recipe

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4.3 from 44 reviews

This Cinnamon Apple Bread is a moist, tender quick bread loaded with warm cinnamon flavor and fresh apple pieces swirled throughout. Perfect for breakfast or an afternoon treat, it features a cinnamon sugar swirl inside and a sweet cinnamon glaze on top. The combination of spices, brown sugar, and apples delivers a cozy, comforting baked good everyone will love.

  • Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
  • Yield: 10 servings

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

  • 1-1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1-1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (1 stick)
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup milk

Apple Mixture

  • 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
  • 1-1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1 large apple, peeled, cored, and chopped into small pieces

Cinnamon Sugar Topping

  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Glaze

  • 3/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 2 tablespoons water

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven and prepare pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8.5 x 4.5 inch loaf pan to prevent sticking.
  2. Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside for later.
  3. Cream butter and sugar: Using an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract on medium-high speed until the mixture is smooth and pale, about 3 to 4 minutes. Scrape down the bowl sides as needed.
  4. Add eggs: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
  5. Combine wet and dry ingredients: With the mixer on low, gradually add half of the flour mixture alternating with half of the milk. Then add the remaining flour and milk, mixing until just combined.
  6. Prepare apple mixture: In a separate bowl, mix the chopped apples with light brown sugar and ground cinnamon. Set aside.
  7. Prepare cinnamon sugar topping: In a small bowl, combine brown sugar and cinnamon. Set aside for sprinkling on top later.
  8. Layer batter and apple mixture: Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Spoon half of the apple mixture over the batter. Lightly swirl the mixture into the batter gently with a knife or skewer, being careful not to over-mix—the goal is a distinct swirl.
  9. Add remaining layers: Pour the remaining batter over the apple layer, then add the remaining apple mixture on top. Again, swirl lightly with a knife or skewer in multiple directions.
  10. Top with cinnamon sugar: Sprinkle the prepared brown sugar and cinnamon mixture evenly over the top of the loaf.
  11. Bake the bread: Bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached due to the apples.
  12. Make the glaze: While the bread cools in the pan for 15 to 20 minutes, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar, cinnamon, and water in a small bowl to make the glaze.
  13. Glaze and cool: Remove the bread from the pan and transfer it onto a wire rack. Drizzle the cinnamon glaze evenly over the warm bread. Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • Use a tart but crisp apple variety like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for best texture and flavor.
  • Do not over-swirl the batter and apple mixture to keep a beautiful distinct swirl pattern with a thick layer of apples.
  • Ensure butter is softened to room temperature for easy creaming and better texture.
  • Make sure toothpick tests clean around the center where apples are to ensure it is fully baked.
  • Store leftover bread wrapped at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
  • Bring to room temperature or warm before serving for best taste.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50 minutes
  • Category: Bread
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American