There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked apple bread wafting through your kitchen. This Warm Cinnamon-Spiced Apple Bread is the ultimate comfort bake—soft, moist, and perfectly balanced with sweetness and spice. Whether you enjoy it with your morning coffee, as an afternoon snack, or as a light dessert, this bread feels like a hug in every bite. I love using crisp apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for that perfect tart-sweet flavor, but any apple you have on hand works beautifully. The cinnamon adds that nostalgic, warming note that makes this bread perfect for fall—or any time you crave a cozy homemade treat. I’ve tried swapping in almond milk for regular milk, and it worked wonderfully, keeping the bread moist and rich. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious loaf that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is simple, forgiving, and perfect for both beginner and experienced bakers. You’ll love how quickly it comes together—no fancy mixers needed, just a few bowls and a whisk. It’s wonderfully aromatic, with a soft crumb and a slightly crisp crust. Plus, it stays moist for days, making it ideal for meal prep or gifting.
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Warm Cinnamon-Spiced Apple Bread – A Cozy Treat for Any Season
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (about 8 servings)
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A moist and fragrant quick bread filled with chunks of tender apples and warm cinnamon spice — perfect for cozy breakfasts or afternoon snacks.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup buttermilk
- 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and chopped
- ¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
- Alternately add the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the wet mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
- Fold in the chopped apples and nuts (if using).
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a balance of sweetness and tang.
- Add a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk for extra sweetness.
- This bread freezes well for up to 3 months when wrapped tightly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Apples – Fresh apples are the star here. Choose firm, flavorful varieties like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith for the best texture and a balance of sweet-tart taste.
All-purpose flour – Provides structure to the bread while keeping it tender. You can substitute half of it with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor.
Sugar – Adds sweetness and helps develop that lovely golden crust. A mix of white and brown sugar gives depth and caramel notes.
Cinnamon – The key spice that transforms this loaf into a warm, fragrant delight. Feel free to add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for extra warmth.
Baking powder and baking soda – Work together to give the bread its perfect rise and airy crumb.
Eggs – Bind the batter and add richness, ensuring the bread is soft yet sturdy.
Milk – Keeps the texture moist and light. You can use dairy or non-dairy options like almond or oat milk without affecting the flavor.
Butter – Adds richness and a melt-in-your-mouth texture. For a lighter version, substitute with coconut oil or vegetable oil.
Vanilla extract – Enhances the sweetness and rounds out the flavor beautifully.
Salt – A small amount balances the sweetness and deepens the flavor of the spices.
Directions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. In another bowl, beat the butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla and milk. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.
Fold in the chopped apples until evenly distributed through the batter. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 55–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve warm or at room temperature.
Equipment needed
Mixing bowls (one large, one medium)
Whisk and spatula
9×5-inch loaf pan
Cooling rack
Measuring cups and spoons
Electric mixer (optional)
Servings and timing
This recipe yields 1 loaf (about 10 slices).
Prep time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 55–60 minutes
Cooling time: 10 minutes
Total time: Approximately 1 hour 20 minutes
Storage/reheating
Store the cooled bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 1 week. To reheat, warm individual slices in the microwave for 15–20 seconds or in a low oven (300°F/150°C) for 5–7 minutes to bring back that just-baked warmth. You can also freeze the loaf (whole or sliced) for up to 3 months—just wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
Variations and Customizations
Apple Nut Bread – Stir in ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and a toasty flavor.
Cinnamon Streusel Topping – Add a crumbly topping made of butter, flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon before baking for a bakery-style finish.
Glazed Apple Bread – Drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk over the cooled loaf for a sweet touch.
Vegan Version – Replace eggs with flaxseed eggs and butter with coconut oil or vegan butter. Use almond milk for a completely dairy-free version.
Apple-Cranberry Bread – Fold in ½ cup of dried cranberries for a tart contrast to the sweet apples.
Maple-Spiced Twist – Swap part of the sugar for maple syrup and add a hint of nutmeg for a deeper, autumnal flavor.
FAQs
How do I keep my apple bread moist?
Use fresh apples and avoid overbaking. Also, wrap the cooled loaf tightly to retain moisture.
Can I use applesauce instead of fresh apples?
Yes, replace half of the chopped apples with unsweetened applesauce for a smoother texture.
What type of apples work best?
Firm varieties like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith hold their shape and flavor well during baking.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend designed for baking.
Why did my bread sink in the middle?
Overmixing or underbaking can cause this. Ensure the bread bakes fully before removing it from the oven.
Can I add oats to this recipe?
Yes, adding ¼ cup of rolled oats gives extra texture and a rustic touch.
How do I know when it’s done baking?
Insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, it’s ready.
Can I use oil instead of butter?
Yes, vegetable oil or coconut oil works well and keeps the loaf moist.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely, just divide the batter between two loaf pans and bake as directed.
How should I serve apple bread?
Serve it warm with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey for the perfect cozy treat.
Conclusion
This Warm Cinnamon-Spiced Apple Bread captures the comforting flavors of home baking—soft, aromatic, and irresistibly delicious. It’s a recipe that celebrates simplicity and the beauty of seasonal ingredients. Whether you enjoy it as breakfast, a snack, or dessert, it brings warmth to any table. Bake it once, and you’ll find yourself returning to this classic loaf again and again.