Description
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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Incorporate Apples: Fold the cinnamon-coated apples into the batter gently until evenly distributed. Avoid overmixing to maintain a tender crumb.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
