This apple bread is soft and sweet with juicy apple chunks and a hint of cinnamon. It’s a cozy treat that’s great for breakfast or a snack!
When I make this, my home smells like a warm bakery. I can’t resist sneaking a slice right out of the oven! 📅🍏 Enjoy it fresh or toasted, it’s always a hit!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-Purpose Flour: This is the main structuring component of your bread. If you need a gluten-free option, you can use a 1:1 gluten-free flour mix. I’ve had good results with that!
Butter: Unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness in the bread. If you need a dairy-free option, try using coconut oil or a plant-based butter. Keep in mind, the flavor might slightly change.
Apples: I recommend using Granny Smith for their tartness, but any firm apple like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala works well. If you’re short on fresh apples, unsweetened applesauce can be a substitute, but the texture will be different.
Sour Cream or Yogurt: This adds moisture and a slight tang to the bread. If you don’t have either, plain milk or almond milk can work, but the texture might be less rich.
How Do I Ensure My Apple Bread is Moist and Flavorful?
To achieve moist and delicious apple bread, focus on mixing the ingredients correctly and incorporating the apples well. Here are my tips:
- Make sure you’re not over-mixing the batter once you add the flour. Mix until just combined to keep the bread light.
- Don’t skip the step of creaming butter and sugar well! It adds air which helps the bread rise nicely.
- For the apples, slice them thinly so they bake evenly throughout the loaf.
- And, while baking, keep an eye on it after the 50-minute mark. Ovens can vary, and you want it just right!
How to Make Delicious Apple Bread
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Bread:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream or plain yogurt
- 2 cups peeled, cored, and thinly sliced apples (about 2 medium apples)
- For the Topping:
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
How Much Time Will You Need?
This apple bread will take about 15 minutes to prepare and about 55-65 minutes to bake. Plus, you’ll want to let it cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. In total, allow around 1 hour and 30 minutes for the entire process, from start to finish. The result? A warm, comforting loaf that’s perfect for snacking or serving with tea or coffee!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Pan:
First, set your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that warms up, grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan, or you can line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Whisk them together until everything is well mixed, and then set it aside while you prepare the wet ingredients.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugar:
In a large mixing bowl, use a mixer to cream the softened butter with the granulated sugar until it becomes light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes and is an important step for a nice texture!
4. Add in Eggs and Vanilla:
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each one. Then stir in the vanilla extract until everything is nicely combined.
5. Combine the Mixtures:
Now it’s time to combine the dry ingredients with the butter mixture. Start by adding about a third of the dry mix, followed by half of the sour cream. Continue alternating until you’ve added everything, ensuring you start and end with the dry ingredients. Be careful not to over-mix—just blend until it’s combined!
6. Fold in the Apples:
Gently fold in the sliced apples, distributing them throughout the batter. This adds delicious flavor and texture to the bread!
7. Pour and Prepare for Baking:
Pour your batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth out the top with a spatula. This step helps it bake evenly.
8. Add the Sugary Cinnamon Topping:
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the batter to create a sweet crust.
9. Bake to Perfection:
Slide your loaf pan into the preheated oven and bake for 55 to 65 minutes. To check if it’s ready, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when the bread is done.
10. Cool and Enjoy:
Once out of the oven, let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice it up and enjoy your homemade apple bread warm or at room temperature!
This moist apple bread with a touch of cinnamon is perfect for sharing with family and friends or enjoying all on your own. Happy baking!
Can I Use Other Types of Apples for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples are great for their tartness, you can use Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala apples for a sweeter flavor. Just make sure to use firm apples to hold their shape in baking!
Can I Substitute the Sour Cream?
Yes, you can replace sour cream with plain yogurt or even applesauce in a pinch. If you choose applesauce, consider reducing the sugar slightly as it adds natural sweetness.
How Should I Store Leftover Apple Bread?
Store leftover apple bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can wrap it tightly and freeze it for up to 2 months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy!
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! For a gluten-free option, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Just be sure it contains xanthan gum to help the bread rise and maintain its texture.
