Description

This Cinnamon Apple Bread is a moist and flavorful quick bread featuring tender chunks of apple swirled with cinnamon sugar. Perfect for breakfast or a cozy snack, it is topped with a sweet cinnamon glaze that enhances its warm, spiced flavor. Baked in a loaf pan, this bread balances soft crumb with a cinnamon-sugar swirl center, offering a delicious and inviting treat.

Ingredients

Bread Batter:

1-1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1-1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (1 stick)
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 large eggs
1/2 cup milk

Apple Mixture:

1/2 cup light brown sugar (packed)
1-1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1 large apple (peeled, cored, and chopped into small pieces)

Topping:

2 tablespoons brown sugar
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Glaze:

3/4 cups confectioners’ sugar
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
2 tablespoons water

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Instructions

Preheat oven and prepare pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8.5 x 4.5 inch loaf pan to prevent sticking.
Mix dry ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined. Set aside.
Beat butter and sugar: Using an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract on medium-high speed until the mixture becomes smooth and pale, about 3 to 4 minutes. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl as needed.
Add eggs: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
Combine dry and wet ingredients: With the mixer on low speed, add half of the flour mixture, then half of the milk, alternating until both are fully combined. Mix gently to avoid overmixing.
Prepare apple mixture: In a separate mixing bowl, combine the light brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and chopped apple pieces. Set aside.
Make cinnamon sugar topping: In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon. Set aside.
Layer batter and apple mixture: Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Spread half of the apple mixture evenly over the batter. Using a knife or skewer, gently swirl through to create a swirl effect without over mixing.
Add remaining batter and apple mixture: Pour the remaining batter over the first layer. Spread the remaining apple mixture on top, then gently swirl again with a knife or skewer. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar topping evenly over the surface.
Bake the bread: Bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 55 minutes, or until a cake tester or toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. The apples in the center can cause some moistness, which is expected.
Prepare the glaze: While the bread cools, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar, ground cinnamon, and water in a small bowl until smooth and pourable.
Cool and glaze the bread: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 15 to 20 minutes. Carefully remove the bread from the pan and transfer to a cooling rack. Drizzle the cinnamon glaze over the bread. Let cool completely before slicing to allow the glaze to set.

Notes

For best results, use a sharp knife or cake tester to check doneness to avoid overbaking.
Peeling, coring, and finely chopping the apple ensures even distribution and texture in the bread.
Do not over-swirl the batter with the apple mixture to maintain distinct layers and visual appeal.
The glaze adds a sweet finishing touch but can be omitted if preferred.
This bread can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week.
Allow bread to cool completely before slicing for cleaner cuts.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Category: Bread
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American