Apple Bread is a delightful and cozy treat that brings the essence of fall right into your kitchen. Packed with the natural sweetness of apples and warm spices, it’s perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert. This bread is not just delicious – it’s also easy to make and fills your home with wonderful aromas.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Apple Bread is an enjoyable way to use up extra apples, especially when they’re in season. The combination of sweet and fruity flavors creates a comforting experience for anyone who tries it. Plus, this recipe is straightforward enough for bakers of all skill levels. You’ll love how quickly it comes together and how satisfying it is to slice into a warm loaf right from the oven.
How to Make Apple Bread
Ingredients:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup light brown sugar (packed)
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 3/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 4 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 cup oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups apples (chopped and peeled, about 2 medium)
- 1/2 cup apple cider
- 1 tablespoon salted butter
- 6 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease and line a 9×5 loaf pan with parchment paper, and make sure to grease the paper as well.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set this dry mixture aside.
- In another bowl, whisk the eggs, oil, and vanilla extract together. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until everything is combined. Expect the batter to be quite thick.
- Gently fold in the chopped apples. Then, pour the batter into your prepared bread pan.
- Bake for 50 to 55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Apple Cider Glaze
To make the glaze, melt the salted butter in a small bowl. Mix in the powdered sugar, apple cider, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled Apple Bread for a sweet finishing touch.
How to Serve Apple Bread
Apple Bread is best served warm, but it can also be enjoyed at room temperature. Slice thick pieces and serve them plain or with butter. For a special treat, pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
How to Store Apple Bread
You can store Apple Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 to 3 days. If you want to keep it fresh for longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before enjoying.
Tips to Make Apple Bread
- Use different types of apples for unique flavors; a mix of sweet and tart apples works well.
- For added texture, consider tossing in some chopped nuts or raisins.
- Make sure to use room temperature eggs for better mixing.
- If you want a more intense spice flavor, feel free to increase the cinnamon and nutmeg.
Variation
You can add a streusel topping made of flour, sugar, and butter for an extra crunchy texture. Simply sprinkle it on top of the batter before baking.
FAQs
Can I use other fruits in this recipe?
Yes! Pears or peaches can be substituted for apples. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if necessary.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the blend includes xanthan gum for the best results.
How can I tell when the bread is done?
The bread is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. If the top is browning too quickly, you can tent it with foil while baking.
Apple Bread
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup light brown sugar (packed)
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 3/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 4 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 cup oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups apples (chopped and peeled, about 2 medium)
- 1/2 cup apple cider
Glaze
- 1 tablespoon salted butter melted
- 6 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease and line a 9×5 loaf pan with parchment paper, and grease the paper as well.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In another bowl, whisk the eggs, oil, and vanilla extract together. Pour into the dry mixture and stir until combined. Expect a thick batter.
- Gently fold in the chopped apples. Pour the batter into the prepared bread pan.
Baking
- Bake for 50 to 55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Glazing
- To make the glaze, melt the salted butter. Mix in the powdered sugar, apple cider, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Drizzle the glaze over the cooled Apple Bread.
