Few things capture the essence of fall quite like the aroma of freshly baked apple bread wafting through your kitchen. This Warm Cinnamon-Spiced Apple Bread is moist, fragrant, and bursting with chunks of juicy apple, complemented by the comforting warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg. Each slice feels like a cozy hug on a chilly day—perfect with a cup of tea, coffee, or even a dollop of butter. I tried this recipe using Honeycrisp apples, and the flavor was incredible—sweet, tart, and perfectly balanced. Whether you’re baking it for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, this spiced apple bread will quickly become a seasonal favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This bread is soft, tender, and loaded with fall spices. The combination of apples, cinnamon, and brown sugar creates a comforting sweetness that’s not overpowering. It’s easy to make, freezes beautifully, and fills your home with the most inviting aroma.
Warm Cinnamon-Spiced Apple Bread – Easy Fall Baking Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (10 slices)
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A moist and tender apple bread infused with warm cinnamon spice and chunks of fresh apples — perfect for cozy mornings or as a comforting fall snack.
Ingredients
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup (50g) brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup (120ml) milk or buttermilk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups (180g) peeled and chopped apples (Honeycrisp or Granny Smith)
- For the Cinnamon Swirl: 1/4 cup (50g) brown sugar, 1 tsp ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- In a large bowl, cream butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in milk and vanilla extract.
- Gradually mix dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Fold in the chopped apples.
- In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon for the swirl.
- Pour half the batter into the loaf pan, sprinkle half the cinnamon-sugar mixture, then add the remaining batter and top with the rest of the cinnamon-sugar.
- Use a knife to gently swirl the layers together.
- Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- Best served slightly warm with a pat of butter or cream cheese spread.
- Store at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Add 1/2 cup chopped nuts for extra crunch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Apples
Fresh apples give this bread its flavor and moisture. Choose crisp, slightly tart varieties like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith.
All-purpose flour
Provides the structure of the bread while keeping the crumb light and tender.
Baking powder and baking soda
These leavening agents help the bread rise evenly and give it a soft texture.
Cinnamon
The star spice of this recipe—it brings warmth and pairs beautifully with apples.
Nutmeg
Adds a subtle depth and a touch of cozy spice that enhances the cinnamon.
Brown sugar
Gives the bread a caramel-like sweetness and keeps it moist.
Granulated sugar
Balances the flavor and enhances the natural sweetness of the apples.
Eggs
Bind the ingredients together and contribute to the bread’s rich texture.
Butter
Melted butter adds richness and flavor—unsalted butter works best so you can control the salt level.
Vanilla extract
Adds warmth and depth, complementing the apples and spices perfectly.
Salt
Balances the sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.
Milk or buttermilk
Adds moisture to the batter, making the loaf tender and soft.
Optional topping – Cinnamon sugar or streusel
Sprinkle on top before baking for extra sweetness and crunch.
Directions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a loaf pan with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. In another bowl, whisk melted butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Gradually combine the wet and dry mixtures, stirring gently until just combined. Fold in chopped apples.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. For extra flavor, mix a tablespoon of brown sugar with a pinch of cinnamon and sprinkle it on top (or add a streusel topping if you like a crunchy finish).
Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve warm for the best flavor and texture.
Equipment needed
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or electric mixer
- Loaf pan
- Parchment paper
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cooling rack
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 8–10 slices and takes about 15 minutes of preparation and 55 minutes of baking. It’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as an afternoon snack.
Storage/reheating
Store the apple bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, warm a slice in the microwave for about 15–20 seconds or toast lightly for a crisp edge.
Variations and Customizations
Apple-cinnamon swirl
Add a layer of cinnamon sugar in the middle of the batter for a beautiful swirl effect.
Glazed apple bread
Drizzle a simple vanilla or maple glaze over the cooled loaf for extra sweetness.
Nutty crunch
Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans for texture and nutty flavor.
Apple crumble topping
Top with brown sugar, butter, and flour mixture before baking for a bakery-style crumb topping.
Whole wheat version
Swap half of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour for a heartier loaf.
Caramel apple twist
Drizzle caramel sauce over each slice for an indulgent dessert-style bread.
Vegan option
Use plant-based butter and non-dairy milk—I tried it with oat milk, and it turned out just as moist.
Spiced blend upgrade
Add a touch of ground cloves or cardamom for a more complex spice profile.
Apple-chunk and puree mix
Use half chopped apples and half applesauce for an ultra-moist texture.
Mini loaves
Bake in mini loaf pans for adorable, giftable portions perfect for fall gatherings.
FAQs
What are the best apples to use?
Crisp, slightly tart apples like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith work best.
Can I use applesauce instead of chopped apples?
Yes, substitute part or all of the chopped apples with applesauce for extra moisture.
Can I make this bread ahead of time?
Absolutely. It tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop.
How do I keep my apple bread moist?
Avoid overmixing the batter and store it tightly covered once cooled.
Can I freeze apple bread?
Yes! Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before serving.
Do I have to peel the apples?
It’s optional—peeled apples make the texture smoother, but unpeeled adds a rustic touch.
Can I add raisins or nuts?
Yes, both make excellent additions to add flavor and texture.
How do I know when it’s done baking?
Insert a toothpick into the center—it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Can I make muffins with this batter?
Yes, just divide the batter into muffin tins and bake for 18–20 minutes.
What can I serve it with?
It’s delicious with butter, cream cheese, or a drizzle of honey.
Conclusion
This Warm Cinnamon-Spiced Apple Bread captures everything you love about fall—comforting spices, tender apples, and the aroma of home baking. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or lightly toasted the next day, it’s a recipe that warms the heart as much as it delights the palate. Serve it at brunch, gift it to friends, or enjoy it with a warm drink—it’s the perfect way to welcome the cozy season.