Introduction to Cinnamon Apple Bread
When it comes to cozy baked goods, cinnamon apple bread takes the cake—err, loaf! Imagine the warm aroma of cinnamon and fresh apples wafting through your kitchen, making it the perfect homemade treat for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a delightful breakfast option or a sweet snack for your afternoon tea, this recipe has it all, and it’s surprisingly quick to whip up.
One of the main reasons cinnamon apple bread shines is its versatility. If you’re pressed for time, you can cut down on tasks like peeling apples—just dice them! Plus, you can customize the bread by adding walnuts for that delightful crunch or even a layer of sliced apples on top for an eye-catching presentation.
Another great aspect is the moist texture that comes from using yogurt and oil in the batter, ensuring each slice stays fresh and delicious for days. By incorporating healthy ingredients, you’ll feel good about indulging in this classic favorite. If you’re curious about elevating your baking skills, you might want to check out resources like King Arthur Baking or Serious Eats for tips on perfecting your bread-making techniques.
Now, let’s dive into the details of this scrumptious cinnamon apple bread recipe!
Ingredients for Cinnamon Apple Bread
Baking the perfect Cinnamon Apple Bread starts with gathering the right ingredients! Below are the essentials you’ll need to whip up this delightful loaf, along with some optional extras to elevate its flavor.
List of essential ingredients
- 3 cups diced Granny Smith apple: This adds a lovely tartness to balance the sweetness.
- Cinnamon and spices: You'll need 1 teaspoon of cinnamon powder, plus ½ teaspoon ginger powder and ¼ teaspoon allspice to bring warmth and depth.
- Dry and wet ingredients: Combine 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, ½ teaspoon baking soda, and ¼ teaspoon salt for structure. For the wet mix, you’ll use ¾ cup brown sugar, ¾ cup yogurt, 2 eggs, and ½ cup canola oil.
Optional ingredients for added taste
- Walnuts: Toasted and roughly chopped to add a pleasing crunch. Around 1 cup works beautifully!
- Apple topping: Thinly sliced apple can grace the top of your loaf, creating a striking presentation.
- Sugar topping: A sprinkle of demerara sugar with cinnamon can create a delightful crust.
Feel free to personalize your Cinnamon Apple Bread! For more tips on baking with apples, check out this resource. Happy baking!
Preparing Cinnamon Apple Bread
Baking Cinnamon Apple Bread is an irresistible way to fill your kitchen with warmth and comfort. This delightful recipe comes together in several simple steps, guiding you from gathering your ingredients to savoring your freshly baked loaf. Let’s dive into the process!
Gather and Prepare the Ingredients
Before you start, make sure you have all your ingredients ready. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Apples: 2 large Granny Smith apples for a robust filling.
- Dry Ingredients: Flour, cinnamon, ginger powder, allspice, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Wet Ingredients: Brown sugar, yogurt, eggs, oil, and vanilla extract.
- Optional: Toasted walnuts for a delightful crunch.
Organizing everything beforehand not only makes the process smoother but also allows you to enjoy the experience of baking without interruptions.
Prepare the Apple Filling
For the apple filling, begin by peeling, coring, and dicing your apples into ½-inch cubes. Combine the apple pieces with a teaspoon of cinnamon and some brown sugar in a bowl. Leave this mix aside; as it rests, the sugar will draw out the apple juices, creating a deliciously syrupy filling.
Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a spacious bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and your selected spices. This is an essential step to ensure even distribution of the leavening agents and spices, leading to a perfectly risen bread.
Combine the Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, yogurt, eggs, oil, and vanilla extract until smooth. The yogurt helps to keep the bread moist, while the sugar adds sweetness that perfectly complements the apples. Remember, it’s best if your eggs and yogurt are at room temperature for optimal results.
Make the Cinnamon Apple Batter
Now that both mixtures are ready, gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want a thick batter that’s dollop-able but not overly stiff. This is the perfect moment to stir in the apple filling, including all its juices for that extra flavor burst.
Add the Apple Filling to the Batter
Once your batter is mixed, it’s time to introduce that delightful apple filling. Fold in those syrupy apples gently so that they’re evenly distributed but aren’t broken down too much.
Prepare for Baking
Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F). Prepare your loaf pan by greasing it and lining with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal after baking. Pour your batter into the pan, smoothing out the top, and if you like, you can layer some thin apple slices on top along with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar for added flavor and presentation.
Bake the Cinnamon Apple Bread
Transfer the prepared loaf to the preheated oven, baking for about 60 minutes. To ensure it doesn’t brown too much, loosely cover it with foil after the first hour. You’ll know it’s done when a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Let it cool in the pan for about 15 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack. Allow it to cool for an hour before slicing, but be warned, the aroma may be too tempting to resist!
This Cinnamon Apple Bread is a delicious way to bring warmth and a touch of nostalgia to your home. Whether enjoyed plain or toasted with a pat of butter, it’s bound to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Enjoy!
Variations on Cinnamon Apple Bread
Adding nuts for crunch
For an extra layer of texture in your Cinnamon Apple Bread, consider adding nuts! Chopped walnuts or pecans not only introduce a delightful crunch but also enhance the bread's nutty flavor. Toasting the nuts before adding them to the batter brings out their natural oils, making them even more flavorful. Just be sure to keep the nut size consistent—roughly chopped works best. If you’re nut-free, seeds such as pumpkin or sunflower can offer a similar crunch.
Experimenting with different apple varieties
The beauty of Cinnamon Apple Bread lies in its versatility, especially when it comes to selecting apples. While Granny Smith apples are a classic choice for their tartness, feel free to experiment with other varieties. Sweet apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji bring out a different flavor profile, while tart options can keep the bread balanced. Each variety will yield different textures, so take the opportunity to mix and match for a signature loaf! For more tips on choosing the right apple for baking, check out The Kitchn's guide on apple varieties.
Cooking tips and notes for Cinnamon Apple Bread
Tips for keeping the bread moist
To ensure your Cinnamon Apple Bread remains delectably moist, consider these tips:
- Use full-fat yogurt or sour cream; they add richness and help retain moisture.
- Don't skip the oil; it enhances the bread's tenderness and keeps it soft longer.
- Avoid overbaking; use a skewer to check for doneness—when it comes out clean, your bread is ready!
Storage advice for leftovers
For any delicious leftovers, store your Cinnamon Apple Bread in an airtight container in the fridge. This keeps it fresh for up to five days. You can enjoy it warm by popping slices in the microwave or toaster. Feeling adventurous? This bread also freezes well for up to three months—perfect for those future cravings! For extra tips on storing baked goods, check out The Kitchn.
Serving suggestions for Cinnamon Apple Bread
How to enjoy it fresh or toasted
There’s something special about enjoying Cinnamon Apple Bread fresh out of the oven. The fragrant aroma fills the room, and a slice tastes heavenly on its own, bursting with warm apple flavor. For a delicious twist, try toasting it lightly and spreading a bit of butter or cream cheese on top. It transforms your breakfast or afternoon snack into a cozy moment of indulgence.
Ideal pairings for breakfast or tea time
This delightful bread pairs wonderfully with a variety of beverages. For breakfast, serve it alongside a cup of rich coffee or a refreshing herbal tea. If you're hosting tea time, consider pairing Cinnamon Apple Bread with a warm chai or a light green tea. The spices and sweetness of the bread complement the flavors beautifully. Don’t forget to add some yogurt or a side of turkey bacon for a well-rounded brunch!
For more ways to elevate your bread experience, check out The Spruce Eats for drink ideas and serving tips!
Time Breakdown for Cinnamon Apple Bread
Preparation Time
The prep time for this delicious Cinnamon Apple Bread is about 20 minutes. This includes chopping the apples and mixing together the delicious batter.
Baking Time
Once it's in the oven, the baking process takes approximately 1 hour and 25 minutes. Make sure you have patience, as the aroma will be irresistible during this time!
Total Time
In total, from start to finish, you're looking at around 2 hours and 45 minutes. This includes cooling time of 1 hour before it’s ready to slice. Allow yourself some leisurely moments to enjoy your creation!
When enjoying your Cinnamon Apple Bread, consider pairing it with a cup of tea or coffee. For a delightful twist, you might even want to explore other baked goods, like apple muffins. If you're eager for more apple-inspired recipes, check out this resource on the health benefits of apples. Happy baking!
Nutritional Facts for Cinnamon Apple Bread
Calories per serving
Each slice of this delicious Cinnamon Apple Bread packs approximately 394 calories. It's a satisfying treat, perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack without compromising your wellness goals.
Key Nutritional Components
- Carbohydrates: 49g
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 21g (including healthy fats from walnuts, if added)
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 28g (natural sweetness from apples and brown sugar)
With a blend of wholesome ingredients, this bread offers a delightful mix of flavors and nutrients. Perfect for nourishing your body while indulging your taste buds! Interested in detailed insights on apple nutrition? Check out Healthline's article on apples for more information.
Incorporate this Cinnamon Apple Bread into your meal plan for a deliciously healthy option that fits seamlessly into a balanced lifestyle!
FAQ about Cinnamon Apple Bread
Can I use different types of apples?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples are a favorite for Cinnamon Apple Bread due to their tartness and firm texture, you can experiment with other varieties. Try Fuji or Honeycrisp for a sweeter flavor, but be mindful of adjusting the sugar in the recipe, as sweeter apples may require reducing added sugar to balance the flavor.
How long does this bread last?
Your Cinnamon Apple Bread can stay fresh for up to five days when stored properly. It’s best kept in the fridge, and for a delightful treat, you can reheat it in the microwave or toaster oven. You can also freeze it for up to three months—just make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn.
What are good substitutes for yogurt in this recipe?
If you don’t have yogurt on hand, feel free to use sour cream as a direct substitute. You can also try using applesauce for a lighter option, although it may alter the texture slightly. Additionally, any plant-based yogurt can work, just ensure it's plain and unsweetened for the best results!
For more tips, check out this article on baking substitutions.
Conclusion on Cinnamon Apple Bread
Making Cinnamon Apple Bread is a delightful experience that elevates any cozy gathering or family breakfast. Its delightful aroma, moist texture, and the sweet-tart flavor of apples make it a true comfort food. Plus, it's the perfect way to impress your guests without too much fuss!
A Final Note on Why You Should Make Cinnamon Apple Bread
If you haven't yet decided whether to bake this scrumptious Cinnamon Apple Bread, let me lend a nudge! This recipe is not only forgiving but also offers countless variations to cater to your taste. You can easily swap out ingredients, like adding nuts or tweaking the spices, to make it uniquely yours.
Imagine the warm, spiced scent wafting through your kitchen as you create a loaf that's perfect for any occasion. It's great for breakfast, enjoyed as an afternoon snack with tea, or even as a dessert.
Don’t forget, leftovers make for an incredibly satisfying treat throughout the week—just store it in the refrigerator for maximum freshness. And the best part? This recipe guarantees a moist loaf that stays delicious for days, making it a go-to for busy lifestyles!
So go ahead, pull out your mixing bowls and give this Cinnamon Apple Bread a try—your taste buds will thank you!
Cinnamon Apple Bread
Equipment
- Loaf pan, 21.5 x 11.5 x 7 cm / 4.5 x 8.5 x 2.75"
Ingredients
Topping (optional)
- 1 whole Granny Smith apple quartered, cored, thinly sliced 3 mm / ⅛" thick
- 1.5 tablespoon demerara sugar or turbinado sugar
- ¼ teaspoon cinnamon powder
Cinnamon Apple
- 3 cups diced Granny Smith apple ½” cubes, skin on (approx 2 large apples)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon powder
- 3 tablespoon brown sugar
Batter - Dry
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon powder
- ½ teaspoon ginger powder
- ¼ teaspoon allspice or mixed spice
- 1.75 cups plain / all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda sifted
- ¼ teaspoon cooking / kosher salt
Batter - Wet
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- ¾ cup yogurt plain unsweetened, at room temperature
- 2 whole eggs at room temperature
- ½ cup canola oil or other neutral flavoured oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Walnuts (optional)
- 1 cup walnuts toasted, roughly chopped into 1cm/1/3" pieces
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat oven to 200°C/390°F (180°C fan). Position shelf in the middle of the oven.
- Use a 21.5 x 11.5 x 7 cm / 4.5 x 8.5 x 2.75" pan. Spray with canola oil then line the long side + base with a single piece of paper leaving some overhang.
- Mix the Demerara sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. Set aside.
- Mix Cinnamon Apple ingredients in a bowl. Set aside while you prepare the batter.
- Whisk the Dry ingredients in a bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk Wet ingredients. Pour Wet mix into the Dry bowl, whisk just until smooth. Stir in apples and walnuts. Batter should be thick but dollop-able.
- Scrape into loaf pan, smooth surface. Arrange apple slices on top. Sprinkle with the cinnamon sugar.
- Bake for 60 minutes. Cover loosely with foil, bake for further 25 minutes until skewer comes out smooth.
- Rest in the pan for 15 minutes, then cool at least 1 hour on rack before slicing.
- Serve warm or lightly toasted with butter.
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