If you adore cozy, comforting flavors wrapped up in a tender, moist loaf, then you absolutely must try this Cinnamon Sugar Apple Bread Recipe. Imagine tender chunks of cinnamon-sweetened apples nestled in a spiced, buttery bread with a crunchy cinnamon sugar topping that practically melts in your mouth. It’s the perfect treat for breakfast, a snack with afternoon tea, or even dessert. This bread effortlessly combines the warmth of cinnamon with the natural sweetness and slight tartness of fresh apples, creating a flavor harmony that’s utterly irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl filled with small diced pieces of apple mixed with a light brown cinnamon spice coating. The apple pieces have a slightly translucent cream color with specks of dark brown cinnamon powder evenly spread throughout. The bowl sits on a white marbled texture surface, adding a clean and simple look to the scene. There are no additional layers, just the single layer of the spiced apple mixture inside the bowl. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this Cinnamon Sugar Apple Bread Recipe is simple yet plays a crucial role in building that perfect blend of flavors and textures. From the warm spices to the rich butter and tangy sour cream, each component contributes to making this bread truly special.

1 ½ cups finely chopped apples: Fresh apples add moisture and bursts of natural sweetness throughout the bread.
2 tablespoons packed light or dark brown sugar: Brown sugar brings a deep caramel-like sweetness to the cinnamon sugar apples.
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon: Essential for that warm, cozy cinnamon flavor in the apples and bread.
2 cups all-purpose flour: The base that provides structure and crumb to the bread.
1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the bread rise and stay tender.
½ teaspoon baking soda: Works alongside baking powder to give the bread a perfect lift.
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds a subtle nutty spice that complements the cinnamon beautifully.
¼ teaspoon ground allspice: Enhances the warm spice profile of the bread for depth and complexity.
½ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and highlights the spices.
½ cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and moisture for a tender crumb.
½ cup packed light or dark brown sugar: Sweetens and enriches the bread’s flavor.
⅓ cup granulated sugar: Provides a balanced sweetness and helps create a soft texture.
2 large eggs, room temperature: Bind the ingredients and add richness.
½ cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt: Keeps the bread moist and adds a slight tang.
1 ½ teaspoons pure vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with a fragrant sweetness.
½ cup whole milk: Adds moisture and helps create the perfect batter consistency.
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: For the irresistible cinnamon sugar topping.
3 tablespoons granulated sugar: Combines with cinnamon for that crunchy topping.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (topping): The final cinnamon kick on top of your bread.

How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Apple Bread Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Apples

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C) and preparing a 9×5-inch loaf pan with nonstick spray and a parchment paper lining. Then, mix your finely chopped apples with brown sugar and ground cinnamon so that every piece is deliciously coated – this little step creates that flavorful burst in every bite.

Step 2: Whisk the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour with baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and salt. This blend of spices and leaveners creates the base that will give your bread structure, rise, and that unmistakable warm flavor everyone loves in apple cinnamon bread.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

Using a mixer fitted with a paddle attachment (or a handheld mixer), cream the softened butter with both brown and granulated sugars until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step traps air and gives your bread a tender, soft crumb packed with buttery sweetness.

Step 4: Incorporate Eggs, Sour Cream, and Vanilla

One by one, beat in the eggs, making sure to scrape the bowl to mix everything evenly. Then stir in the tangy sour cream or Greek yogurt and the fragrant vanilla extract. These ingredients add moisture and deepen the flavor profile for that perfect, not-too-sweet balance.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Add the dry flour mixture alternately with the milk, mixing just until combined each time. This careful folding prevents overmixing, which keeps your cake-like bread light and tender. Then, gently fold in the cinnamon sugar apples using a slotted spoon to avoid adding too much extra juice into the batter.

Step 6: Add the Cinnamon Sugar Topping and Bake

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and spread it out evenly. Pour the melted butter over the top, followed by the cinnamon sugar mixture, spreading it evenly for that signature crunchy topping. Bake for about 60 to 70 minutes, tenting with foil in the last 20 to 25 minutes to avoid over-browning, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool and Remove

Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then gently lift it out using the parchment overhang and let it cool completely before slicing. This rest time helps the flavors settle and ensures clean, beautiful slices every time.

How to Serve Cinnamon Sugar Apple Bread Recipe

Garnishes

Try topping your slices with a light drizzle of honey or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence. A sprinkle of powdered sugar or even a handful of toasted chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts can add texture and a delightful crunch.

Side Dishes

This bread pairs wonderfully with a warm cup of coffee or spiced chai tea for a cozy breakfast or afternoon snack. You can also serve it alongside creamy vanilla ice cream to create a simple yet elegant dessert that’s certain to impress.

Creative Ways to Present

Transform this bread into a crowd-pleasing dessert by slicing and toasting it lightly, then spreading cream cheese or mascarpone before layering with sliced fresh apples or caramel sauce. You can also cut it into smaller cubes to serve as a fruit bread centerpiece paired with dips or custards for brunch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Cinnamon Sugar Apple Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep it soft and flavorful. If your kitchen is warm, wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or foil helps retain moisture.

Freezing

This bread freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil or place slices in a freezer-safe bag to avoid freezer burn. It will keep well for up to 3 months without losing any of its deliciousness.

Reheating

To revive the bread’s fresh-baked warmth, reheat slices in a toaster oven or regular oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 to 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving for too long to prevent dryness, but a quick zap of 15-20 seconds can work if you’re in a hurry.

FAQs

Can I use apples other than the ones suggested?

Absolutely! Crisp apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji work best because they hold their shape and add a nice balance of sweetness and tartness in the bread.

Is it possible to make this bread dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the butter with a dairy-free margarine or coconut oil, and swap sour cream or Greek yogurt for a plant-based alternative to keep the bread moist without dairy.

How do I know when the bread is fully baked?

The best test is inserting a toothpick or skewer in the center; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Also, the top should feel firm and lightly browned.

Can I add nuts or raisins to this bread?

Yes, adding chopped walnuts, pecans, or raisins complements the cinnamon sugar apples nicely. Fold them in with the apples before baking for extra texture and flavor.

What’s the best way to slice this bread?

Use a sharp serrated knife and cut gently to avoid squishing the soft crumb. Letting the bread cool completely before slicing ensures neat, even pieces.

Final Thoughts

This Cinnamon Sugar Apple Bread Recipe is one of those keepsake recipes that you’ll want to bake again and again, whether to cozy up chilly mornings or impress friends with a homemade treat. It strikes the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and fruity in every tender slice. So, grab those apples, get your kitchen smelling like cinnamon, and treat yourself to a slice of comfort and joy!