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
Scale
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.
