Cinnamon Apple Bread Loaf

Nothing says cozy quite like a loaf of homemade cinnamon apple bread. This recipe transforms simple pantry staples and fresh apples into a tender, cinnamon-swirled treat that fills your kitchen with sweet, autumn-inspired aromas. Ideal for breakfast, snack, or dessert, it is one of those bakes that everyone asks for seconds.

After taking this bread to my neighbor's holiday brunch last year, I had three people ask for the recipe on the spot. The combination of gooey cinnamon apples and a soft crumb is irresistible and it quickly became a regular in my baking rotation.

Ingredients

• All-purpose flour: this keeps the loaf soft without being too dense choose a trusted brand for best texture
• Unsalted butter: softened for rich taste and a tender crumb opt for real butter not margarine
• Granulated sugar: ensures sweetness in the batter without being overwhelming
• Vanilla extract: brings out flavors in both the batter and glaze use pure vanilla for depth
• Eggs: large size helps hold everything together and adds moisture
• Milk: whole or two percent boosts tenderness use fresh milk when possible
• Brown sugar: packs flavor into the cinnamon apple swirl and topping look for soft well-packed brown sugar
• Ground cinnamon: classic warmth and spice fresh cinnamon elevates the bread
• Apple: a large shiny apple adds sweet tart flavor pick crisp varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for the best texture
• Confectioners sugar: gives the glaze its signature drizzle use sifted sugar to avoid lumps

Instructions

Prepare the Pan:

Grease and flour your loaf pan thoroughly so the bread releases effortlessly after baking

Mix Dry Ingredients:

In a medium bowl combine flour baking powder and salt and whisk to blend out lumps

Cream Butter and Sugar:

Use an electric mixer to beat softened butter granulated sugar and vanilla extract on medium high until the mixture is pale and fluffy this builds structure and flavor

Incorporate the Eggs:

Add eggs one at a time mixing until each is just absorbed for even texture

Add Flour and Milk:

With the mixer on low alternate adding the flour mixture and milk in two additions ending with flour this helps the batter stay tender

Make Apple Cinnamon Swirl:

In a second bowl toss chopped apples with brown sugar and ground cinnamon until evenly coated this creates pockets of spice and sweetness

Layer the Batter and Apples:

Spoon half the batter into your pan then scatter half the apple mixture over it use a knife or skewer to gently swirl avoid over mixing so you retain luscious apple layers

Repeat Layers:

Add remaining batter and apples swirling again just enough to marble the layers finish with a sprinkle of the cinnamon sugar topping for a golden crust

Bake:

Place the pan in a preheated oven and bake for forty five to fifty five minutes test doneness by inserting a toothpick only a few moist crumbs should cling where there is apple

Cool and Glaze:

Let the bread sit in the pan for fifteen to twenty minutes before removing to a rack whisk together glaze ingredients until smooth then drizzle over the warm loaf for the perfect finish

Wait to Slice:

Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing this prevents crumbling and helps the glaze set beautifully

Brown sugar is my favorite part of this recipe because it melts into the apples and creates little pockets of toffee like flavor. Every time I slice this bread for my family it reminds me of quiet autumn afternoons spent baking with my daughter as she tried to sneak extra apple pieces from the bowl.

Storage and Leftover Tips

Cinnamon apple bread keeps wonderfully at room temperature. Wrap it tightly in plastic or foil after it has fully cooled. For longer storage freeze individual slices, then thaw on the counter or toast for a fresh-baked feeling. Refrigeration is not recommended since it can dry out the bread faster.

Easy Ingredient Swaps

Switch out the apple for diced pears if they are in season. You can also use nut milk in place of cow's milk for a dairy-light loaf. For an extra crunch, toss a handful of chopped pecans into the apple mixture before layering.

Perfect Ways to Serve This

Enjoy thick slices slightly warmed for breakfast with black coffee. Make it extra special for dessert by adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream. I also love tucking a slice into my kids' lunchboxes for a mid-morning treat that brightens their day.

This loaf is as beautiful as it is delicious, combining cozy cinnamon warmth with bright apple flavor. Enjoy a slice fresh or freeze a few for later—the perfect treat for any season.

Recipe Q&A

→ How do I get a moist texture in this bread?

Ensure you don’t overmix the batter and use softened butter. The chopped apples help keep the loaf tender and moist.

→ Which apple variety works best?

Firm, slightly tart apples—like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp—provide a pleasant balance and texture.

→ Can I freeze the baked loaf?

Yes, cool the bread fully, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

→ Is it necessary to peel the apples?

Peeling creates a smoother texture, but you can leave the peel on for added color and fiber if preferred.

→ How do I know when the bread is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached.

→ Can I make this without a stand mixer?

Yes, you can use a handheld mixer or mix by hand with a sturdy spatula and some extra effort.