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The Best Apple Bread Recipe

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4.5 from 141 reviews

This Best Apple Bread Recipe is a moist, flavorful bread packed with finely chopped tart apples and a perfect cinnamon sugar topping. Easy to prepare and bake, it combines the sweet and spicy warmth of cinnamon with tender apples baked into a soft, buttery bread. Ideal for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, this apple bread promises a comforting treat bursting with autumnal flavors.

Ingredients

Units Scale

For Apples and Topping

  • 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 2 tablespoons butter, melted (salted or unsalted)

For Apple Bread

  • 1 1/2 cups (215 g) finely chopped apples, peeled and cored (about 2 apples)
  • 2 1/3 cups (290 g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup (100 g) light brown sugar, firmly packed
  • 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated sugar
  • 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 3/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup (113 g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 3/4 cup (170 g) sour cream
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) whole milk
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Prep the Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×5 inch bread pan with parchment paper, creating a sling for easy removal, or lightly grease with baking spray.
  2. Prepare the Topping and Apples: Mix ¼ cup granulated sugar with 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon in a small bowl; set aside. Place finely chopped apples in another bowl and sprinkle with 1 ½ tablespoons of the cinnamon sugar mixture. Stir to coat evenly and set aside. Keep 2 tablespoons of melted butter ready for later.
  3. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, light brown sugar, remaining granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. This ensures even distribution of leavening agents and spices through the batter.
  4. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl or a large measuring cup, whisk the melted unsalted butter, sour cream, whole milk, lightly beaten eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
  5. Blend Wet and Dry Ingredients: Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients. Using a wooden spoon or spatula, gently fold just until mostly combined. Careful not to overmix to keep the bread tender.
  6. Incorporate Apples: Fold the cinnamon-coated apples into the batter gently until evenly distributed. Avoid overmixing to maintain a tender crumb.
  7. Assemble in Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared bread pan, spreading it out evenly. Drizzle the 2 tablespoons of melted butter over the top of the batter, then sprinkle the remaining cinnamon sugar mixture evenly on top for a crunchy, flavorful crust.
  8. Bake the Bread: Place the bread pan on a foil- or parchment-lined baking sheet to catch any butter drips and prevent oven messes. Bake in the preheated oven for 65 to 70 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a wooden skewer into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
  9. Cool and Serve: Let the apple bread cool in the pan for at least one hour. Carefully remove using the parchment sling, then cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and enjoying.

Notes

  • Apples: Use firm and slightly tart apples such as Granny Smith or Gala for the best flavor and texture balance.
  • Storing: Store the apple bread wrapped or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.