If you’re in search of a cozy kitchen project that fills your home with the sweetest aroma, look no further than Apple Bread. This warmly spiced loaf balances tender apples, a hint of cinnamon, and a subtle nuttiness, making it a true comfort bake for every season. Whether you enjoy it as a breakfast slice with a slather of butter, or as an afternoon treat with coffee, Apple Bread is as simple to make as it is irresistible to eat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Apple Bread comes from a handful of staple ingredients—each one building flavor, texture, and that unmistakable golden crumb. Pay attention to the basics, and this recipe will become your go-to homemade treat.
- All-purpose flour: Provides the structure and base for the bread, yielding a soft yet sturdy slice.
- Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a tender crumb throughout the loaf.
- Brown sugar: Brings in a caramelly note and extra moisture for a richer texture.
- Baking soda: Gives your loaf its lovely rise and lightness, working perfectly with the acidity of the applesauce and apples.
- Salt: Rounds out the flavors, ensuring every bite sings with balance.
- Ground cinnamon: Delivers that classic, cozy apple bread spiciness we all crave.
- Ground nutmeg: Adds complexity and warmth, pairing beautifully with fall flavors.
- Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and create that signature rise and tenderness.
- Vegetable oil: Ensures the loaf stays moist for days, without overpowering the apple flavor.
- Unsweetened applesauce: Reinforces apple flavor and helps keep the bread incredibly moist with fewer added fats.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall aroma and adds a subtle depth to the batter.
- Peeled and finely chopped apples: The star ingredient—choose firm apples for bursts of juicy, tart-sweet flavor in every bite.
- Chopped walnuts or pecans (optional): Add a delightful crunch and a touch of earthy flavor if you like a bit of texture in your loaf.
How to Make Apple Bread
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F so it’s ready for action once your batter is mixed. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan well with butter or nonstick spray, ensuring the bread releases easily after baking. This small step makes all the difference for that perfect golden crust.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together your flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This blend lays the foundation for your Apple Bread, ensuring each spice and sweetener gets evenly distributed into the final loaf.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, beat your eggs thoroughly, then add the oil, applesauce, and vanilla extract. Whisk until the mixture is silky-smooth—this combination locks in moisture and infuses a gentle vanilla note into every slice.
Step 4: Bring It All Together
Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with your dry ingredients. Stir gently, just until everything is moistened. The secret to a tender Apple Bread is not overmixing; a few lumps are absolutely fine, and they’ll bake out beautifully.
Step 5: Fold in Apples (and Nuts, If Using)
Gently fold in your peeled, finely chopped apples, making sure they’re evenly dispersed throughout the batter. If you’re adding walnuts or pecans, sprinkle them in now. Each bite should promise sweet, juicy apple bits and a satisfying crunch where you want it.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Slide it into the oven and bake for 55 to 65 minutes. Your kitchen will soon be filled with the scent of warm spices and apples—a true sign it’s nearly ready. To check doneness, insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean, your Apple Bread is done!
Step 7: Cool and Enjoy
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer it onto a wire rack to cool completely. This keeps the crust from getting soggy and makes slicing so much easier. Now comes the best part—enjoying a slice (or two) of fresh homemade Apple Bread!
How to Serve Apple Bread
Garnishes
For an unstoppable finish, try dusting your Apple Bread with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey. A dollop of whipped cream or a pat of soft butter also transforms each slice into a decadent treat fit for special mornings or celebrations.
Side Dishes
Pair Apple Bread with a bowl of vanilla yogurt and some fresh berries for a balanced breakfast. For a heartier brunch, serve alongside soft scrambled eggs and hot coffee. Apple Bread also loves being friends with thick-cut bacon for a salty-sweet medley on the weekend table.
Creative Ways to Present
Get imaginative by turning thick slices into French toast—dip them in a cinnamon-egg mixture and griddle until golden. For gatherings, cut the bread into cubes and pile onto a platter with sweet cream cheese dip, or bake into bread pudding for a totally new treat guests will rave about.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once completely cooled, wrap your Apple Bread tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. At room temperature, Apple Bread stays moist for up to three days; in the fridge, you can keep it fresh for about five days. This makes it perfect for breakfast prep or after-school snacks all week long.
Freezing
Apple Bread freezes like a dream! For best results, wrap the entire loaf or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil or a freezer bag. Pop it in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature. It tastes just as delicious as freshly baked—sweet, juicy apples and all.
Reheating
To restore fresh-baked texture, reheat slices of Apple Bread in the microwave for about 10–15 seconds or in a toaster oven until just warmed through. This revives the flavors and makes each bite as comforting as day one. Add butter or your favorite spread for ultimate indulgence.
FAQs
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for half or all of the all-purpose flour to add a nutty, wholesome twist. Keep in mind, the texture will be denser and the flavor heartier—you might also want to use a bit more applesauce to keep the bread moist.
What type Breakfast
Firm apples like Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, Fuji, or Gala are perfect for this recipe—they hold their shape and balance sweetness with a touch of tartness. Feel free to mix varieties for deeper flavor.
Can I make this Apple Bread nut-free?
Absolutely! Simply omit the walnuts or pecans; the Apple Bread will still be delightfully moist and flavorful. If you want some extra texture, consider adding raisins or a handful of pumpkin seeds as an alternative.
How do I know when Apple Bread is fully baked?
Your best friend in the kitchen is a toothpick—insert it into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, your Apple Bread is ready to come out of the oven. The loaf should also feel springy when gently pressed on top.
Can I add extra spices or flavorings?
Certainly! Apple Bread is wonderfully adaptable: try adding a pinch of ground cloves, ginger, or cardamom for more complexity, or sprinkle in orange zest for a fresh citrus lift. Taste and make it your own favorite family recipe.
Final Thoughts
If you crave a slice of something homey, moist, and packed with flavor, this Apple Bread is here for you. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just yourself, it’s sure to become a timeless classic in your kitchen. Give it a try—your mornings and snack breaks will thank you!
Print
Apple Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (8 slices)
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This delicious apple bread recipe is a delightful treat perfect for breakfast or as a snack. Loaded with fresh apples and warm spices, it’s a moist and flavorful loaf that will fill your home with the cozy scents of fall.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Wet Ingredients:
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Additional:
- 2 cups peeled and finely chopped apples (such as Honeycrisp or Granny Smith)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- Prepare the batter: In a large bowl, mix the dry ingredients. In a separate bowl, combine the wet ingredients. Add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients and fold in the apples and nuts. Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
- Bake: Bake for 55–65 minutes until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and serve: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- For a sweeter loaf, use sweeter apple varieties like Fuji or Gala.
- This bread freezes well—wrap tightly and store for up to 3 months.
- Serve with a smear of butter or cream cheese for extra indulgence.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 270
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
