Apple Bread

If you’re looking for a cozy treat that fills your home with the warm scent of fall, this Apple Bread recipe is just what you need! I love how this quick bread comes together in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. The combination of sweet apples and cinnamon creates a delightful flavor that brings smiles to everyone’s faces. Plus, it makes six mini loaves, so you can share them with friends or save some for later!

There’s something truly special about baking from scratch. This recipe is not only easy but also uses simple ingredients that you probably have in your pantry. Whether you’re enjoying a slice for breakfast or serving it as a dessert, this Apple Bread will surely become a favorite in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: With just a few minutes of prep time, you’ll have delicious loaves in the oven before you know it!
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves the sweet aroma and taste of apple cinnamon bread—perfect for kids and adults alike.
• Perfect for gifting: These mini loaves are ideal for sharing with neighbors or bringing to potlucks.
• Make-ahead convenience: Bake ahead and enjoy fresh bread throughout the week; it freezes well too!
• Deliciously versatile: Enjoy it as breakfast, dessert, or even as a snack—anytime is a good time for Apple Bread!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be delighted to find that this recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients. No need to hunt down anything fancy—just grab these staples!

For the Bread

• 2 cups white granulated sugar
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 2 cups milk
• ⅔ cup vegetable oil
• 1 cup apples (diced and peeled)

For the Topping

• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• ⅔ cup white granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Variations

One of the best things about this Apple Bread is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these fun variations:

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
• Mix in raisins: Add a handful of raisins or dried cranberries for a chewy texture.
• Experiment with spices: Try adding nutmeg or ginger for an exciting twist on flavor.
• Use different fruits: Swap some apples for diced pears or peaches for a unique fruity blend.

How to Make Apple Bread

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease your loaf pans. This step ensures that your bread bakes evenly and doesn’t stick to the pans—no one likes losing bits of deliciousness!

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar, flour, baking powder, and salt. This forms the base of your batter. Mixing dry ingredients first helps distribute everything evenly throughout the bread.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In the bowl of a stand mixer (or any large mixing bowl), beat together the eggs, milk, and vegetable oil until just combined. This mixture brings moisture to your bread—crucial for that soft texture we all adore!

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture until just moist. Be careful not to overmix; we want our bread light and fluffy! Gently fold in the diced apples and cinnamon at this stage—this is where all those wonderful flavors come together.

Step 5: Fill Pans

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pans, filling them up to about two-thirds full. This allows room for rising without spilling over!

Step 6: Add Topping

In a small bowl, combine sugar and cinnamon for the topping. Spoon this mixture onto each loaf and gently swirl it in with a knife. It adds an extra layer of sweetness right on top!

Step 7: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for about 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The smell wafting through your kitchen will be irresistible!

Now that you know how to make delicious Apple Bread, I can’t wait for you to try it! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Bread

Making apple bread is a delightful endeavor, and with a few handy tips, you can make it even more scrumptious and foolproof!

• Use fresh apples: Fresh apples not only enhance the flavor of your bread but also provide better texture. Opt for varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for a nice balance of sweetness and tartness.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Mixing too much can lead to a dense loaf. Just combine until you see no dry flour; the lumps will bake out beautifully!
• Let it cool before slicing: While it’s tempting to dig in right away, allowing your apple bread to cool for about 10-15 minutes helps set the structure and makes slicing easier.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add nutmeg or allspice along with cinnamon for an extra layer of warmth and complexity. A little variety can make this classic recipe feel new every time!
• Store properly: To keep your apple bread fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It’ll stay delicious for several days!

How to Serve Apple Bread

Apple bread is not only delightful on its own but can also be dressed up and served in various ways to impress your guests or family.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar adds a touch of sweetness and elegance to your apple bread.
• Cinnamon sugar topping: For an extra cinnamon kick, mix some cinnamon with sugar and sprinkle on top right after baking while it’s still warm.

Side Dishes

• Greek yogurt: A dollop of plain Greek yogurt on the side provides a tangy contrast that complements the sweetness of the apple bread beautifully.
• Fresh fruit salad: A vibrant fruit salad made with seasonal fruits not only adds color to your plate but also offers refreshing flavors that balance the richness of the bread.
• Herbal tea: Pairing your apple bread with a warm cup of herbal tea creates a cozy atmosphere perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack.
• Vanilla ice cream: For an indulgent dessert option, serve slices of warm apple bread alongside a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. The combination is simply heavenly!

Make Ahead and Storage

This apple bread recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy its delightful flavors throughout the week or share them with friends and family. Here’s how to keep your delicious loaves fresh and ready to eat!

Storing Leftovers

• Store your apple bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, refrigerate it, where it can last up to a week.
• If you notice any excess moisture, place a paper towel inside the container to absorb it.

Freezing

• Allow the baked apple bread to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap each loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• Label and date each package; they can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, remove wrapping and thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), then place the loaf on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, microwave individual slices for about 15-20 seconds until heated.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful apple bread recipe.

Can I use different types of apples in my apple bread?

Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples provide a nice tartness, feel free to experiment with Honeycrisp, Fuji, or any other variety you prefer. Each will give your bread a unique flavor.

How can I make this apple bread healthier?

You can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or reduce the sugar by using unsweetened applesauce. These adjustments will still keep your apple bread delicious while making it a bit healthier.

How long does homemade apple bread last?

If stored correctly, homemade apple bread lasts about 3 days at room temperature or up to a week in the refrigerator. For longer storage, freezing is a great option!

What makes this recipe a no-yeast quick bread?

This recipe uses baking powder instead of yeast, which means you don’t have to wait for dough to rise. It’s perfect for when you’re short on time but still crave that comforting homemade taste!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this apple bread! It’s a cozy recipe that fills your home with delightful aromas and brings smiles all around. Whether you’re indulging yourself or sharing with loved ones, this quick bread is sure to be a hit. Enjoy every slice and let me know how it turns out!