If there is one comforting treat that captures the essence of cozy afternoons and fresh autumn vibes, it’s this delightful Apple Bread Recipe. Packed with tender chunks of juicy apples, warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, and a moist crumb that’s just begging to be savored, this apple bread brings a spark of homemade goodness to your kitchen. Whether you’re craving a perfect breakfast companion or a soothing snack with your afternoon tea, this recipe will quickly become your go-to for easy, flavorful baking that feels like a warm hug in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients may be simple, but each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavor, moisture, and texture in this Apple Bread Recipe. From the aromatic spices that invite you in with every whiff to the fresh apples that add natural sweetness and juiciness, you’re about to combine the essentials into something extraordinary.
- All-purpose flour (1 ½ cups): Provides the structure for the bread’s soft yet sturdy crumb.
- Baking powder (1 teaspoon): Helps the bread rise beautifully, making it light and fluffy.
- Baking soda (½ teaspoon): Works with the acidic apples to give a tender texture and great lift.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
- Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Adds warmth and spice, a classic companion to apples.
- Nutmeg (½ teaspoon): Brings subtle earthy notes, rounding out the spice profile.
- Unsalted butter, melted (½ cup): Infuses richness and keeps every slice moist.
- Granulated sugar (¾ cup): Sweetens while caramelizing lightly in the oven for a golden crust.
- Large eggs (2): Bind ingredients together and add richness.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Brings a lovely fragrance and depth to the batter.
- Milk (½ cup): Adds tenderness and moisture to the bread.
- Peeled and chopped apples (1 ½ cups, about 2 medium): The star ingredient delivering bursts of juicy freshness.
- Optional chopped walnuts or pecans (¼ cup): For delightful crunch and a nutty contrast.
How to Make Apple Bread Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×5-inch loaf pan. This step ensures your bread comes out cleanly without sticking, setting the stage for that perfect golden crust you’ll love.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mixing these dry ingredients first not only blends the spices evenly but also helps the baking agents distribute throughout the batter for a uniformly risen loaf.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk the melted butter and granulated sugar until smooth and slightly creamy. Then beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in vanilla extract for that subtle aromatic lift that makes the bread smell irresistible while baking.
Step 4: Blend Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in batches, alternating with the milk. Stir gently until just combined to avoid overmixing, which can lead to a denser bread. The interplay between wet and dry ingredients here makes the batter moist and perfectly textured.
Step 5: Fold in Apples and Nuts
Gently fold in the peeled and chopped apples, and if you’re feeling nutty, toss in the optional walnuts or pecans as well. This stage is delightful because you can see how the juicy apple pieces promise little pockets of flavor throughout the bread, with nuts lending a perfect crunch.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth out the top. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the middle comes out clean. The wonderful aromas filling your kitchen at this point are proof you’re almost there to enjoying your fresh apple bread.
Step 7: Cool and Slice
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This resting period helps the bread set perfectly so your slices hold together beautifully when you cut in.
How to Serve Apple Bread Recipe
Garnishes
Apple bread is fantastic on its own, but if you want to take things up a notch, consider a light spread of honey butter or a dusting of powdered sugar. A smear of cream cheese frosting transforms it into an indulgent treat perfect for sharing.
Side Dishes
This bread pairs beautifully with a cup of hot tea or coffee, making it a lovely morning or afternoon pick-me-up. For a heartier option, serve alongside a warm bowl of cinnamon-spiced oatmeal or a fresh fruit salad to play up the natural apple flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Try slicing your apple bread thick and toasting it lightly for a crunchy twist, then topping it with a smear of almond butter or your favorite jam. You could also cube it and serve it as part of a bread pudding, letting the apples shine in a whole new way.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once completely cooled, wrap your apple bread tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to keep it moist and fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature. This makes it easy to grab a slice anytime cravings hit.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this Apple Bread Recipe even later, wrap the loaf or individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. Frozen apple bread stays delicious for up to 3 months and is the perfect make-ahead treat for busy days.
Reheating
To bring back that just-baked warmth, gently reheat slices in a toaster oven or microwave. Adding a dab of butter before warming enhances moisture and flavor, giving you the cozy feeling of freshly baked bread without the wait.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of apple for this recipe?
Absolutely! Varieties like Granny Smith provide a tart contrast, while Fuji or Honeycrisp lend extra sweetness—feel free to experiment to find your favorite balance.
Is it possible to make this Apple Bread Recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Simply substitute the butter with a plant-based margarine or coconut oil, and use your favorite dairy-free milk to keep the bread moist and flavorful.
Can I add more spices or other flavorings?
Definitely, you can customize your apple bread with a pinch of ginger or cloves for added warmth, or even toss in some raisins or shredded coconut for a unique twist.
What’s the best way to know when the apple bread is done baking?
The most reliable method is inserting a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your bread is perfectly baked and ready to cool.
Can I make muffins instead of a loaf with this recipe?
Yes! Pour the batter into a greased muffin tin and bake at the same temperature for about 20-25 minutes, checking with a toothpick to avoid overbaking.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about homemade apple bread that fills not only your kitchen but your heart with warmth. This Apple Bread Recipe is a wonderful way to enjoy simple ingredients transformed into a delicious treat that’s perfect for sharing or savoring all to yourself. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it part of your family favorites as it has become in mine.
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Apple Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This moist and flavorful Apple Bread is a perfect treat for breakfast or an afternoon snack. Made with fresh chopped apples, warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, and optional nuts for added texture, this bread combines sweet and cozy flavors baked into a tender loaf. Easy to make and sure to delight, it’s great for sharing or enjoying with a cup of tea or coffee.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg
Wet Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup milk
Main Add-ins
- 1 ½ cups peeled and chopped apples (about 2 medium apples)
- Optional: ¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk the melted unsalted butter and granulated sugar until smooth. Beat in the eggs one at a time to incorporate well, then stir in the vanilla extract for added flavor.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Stir gently until the batter is just combined—do not overmix to keep the bread tender.
- Fold in Apples and Nuts: Gently fold the peeled and chopped apples and optional chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter until evenly distributed throughout.
- Bake the Bread: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Place in the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool Before Slicing: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing to ensure clean cuts and optimal texture.
Notes
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a nice balance of sweet and tangy flavors.
- You can substitute walnuts or pecans with your favorite nuts, or omit them for a nut-free version.
- Ensure the butter is melted but not hot to avoid cooking the eggs in the batter.
- For extra moisture, consider adding ¼ cup of Greek yogurt or applesauce.
- Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- This bread freezes well — wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
