The Perfect Warm Cinnamon-Spiced Apple Bread for Cozy Fall Mornings

Nothing quite captures the essence of autumn like the aroma of Warm Cinnamon-Spiced Apple Bread wafting through your kitchen on a crisp morning. Picture this: you’re wrapped in your favorite sweater, watching golden leaves dance outside your window, while the most heavenly scent fills every corner of your home.

This isn’t just any ordinary quick bread – it’s a warm hug in loaf form, combining tender chunks of fresh apples with an aromatic blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves that transforms your kitchen into a cozy autumn sanctuary.

I still remember the first time I made this recipe on a particularly gray October day. My neighbor knocked on my door just to ask what smelled so incredible! That’s the magic of this apple cinnamon bread – it doesn’t just taste amazing, it creates moments and memories that linger long after the last crumb is gone.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This spiced apple bread has become my go-to recipe whenever I want to bring a little extra warmth and comfort to our home. What makes it truly special is how the finely chopped Granny Smith apples create pockets of tender sweetness throughout each slice, while the trio of warm spices creates layers of flavor that develop beautifully as the bread bakes.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and reliability. Using everyday ingredients like sour cream for moisture and a touch of turbinado sugar on top for that delightful crunch, this bread delivers bakery-quality results every single time.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting your culinary journey, this forgiving recipe will quickly become a family favorite. Explore more trending recipes here to discover additional seasonal favorites that’ll fill your home with love.

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Ingredients List

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this aromatic masterpiece in your own kitchen:

The key to exceptional results is using fresh, quality spices and choosing crisp Granny Smith apples that hold their shape beautifully during baking. Find more quick weeknight recipes here for additional easy-to-make options that fit perfectly into your busy schedule.

Step-by-Step Directions

Preparation Time: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously greasing a 9×5-inch loaf pan. This ensures your Warm Cinnamon-Spiced Apple Bread releases perfectly every time.

Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes with an electric mixer. This creates the perfect foundation for a tender crumb.

Step 2: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract and sour cream. Mix until just combined – overmixing can lead to a dense loaf.

Step 3: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just incorporated.

Step 4: Gently fold in the chopped apples and nuts (if using), ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter. The apples should be coated with flour to prevent sinking.

Step 5: Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and sprinkle the top with turbinado sugar for that signature crunch.

Step 6: Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs attached.

Exact Timing to make Warm Cinnamon-Spiced Apple Bread

• Prep Time: 15 minutes (including apple chopping and ingredient measuring)
• Bake Time: 55-65 minutes
• Cooling Time: 10 minutes in pan, then 30 minutes on wire rack
• Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes to 2 hours 10 minutes

For best results, start checking for doneness at the 55-minute mark, as oven temperatures can vary. The top should be golden brown and spring back lightly when touched.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of the nutritional content per slice (based on 12 servings per loaf):

Nutritional data is calculated based on USDA standard ingredient values and may vary slightly depending on specific brands used.

Healthier Alternatives

Transform your Warm Cinnamon-Spiced Apple Bread into a more nutritious treat with these simple swaps that maintain the beloved flavors while boosting health benefits:

Dietary Adaptations:

• Gluten-Free: Replace flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend
• Dairy-Free: Use plant-based butter and coconut yogurt
• Vegan: Substitute eggs with flax eggs (2 tbsp ground flaxseed + 6 tbsp water)
• Low-Sugar: Reduce sugar to 1/2 cup and add extra cinnamon for sweetness perception

Explore more healthy dessert recipes here to discover additional nutritious treats that satisfy your sweet tooth while supporting your wellness goals.

Serving Suggestions

Perfect Pairings: Serve your Warm Cinnamon-Spiced Apple Bread slightly warmed with a pat of butter melting into each slice, accompanied by a steaming cup of coffee or spiced chai tea. The warmth enhances the aromatic spices and creates an irresistible breakfast or afternoon treat.

Elegant Presentations: Transform simple slices into an impressive dessert by topping with a dollop of whipped cream, a drizzle of caramel sauce, and a sprinkle of toasted pecans. For special occasions, serve alongside vanilla ice cream and fresh apple slices for a restaurant-quality experience.

Make-Ahead Options: This bread actually improves in flavor after a day, making it perfect for meal prep or entertaining. Slice and arrange on a beautiful wooden board with artisanal butter, honey, and fresh fruit for a stunning brunch spread that guests will remember.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overmixing the Batter: The biggest culprit behind dense, tough apple bread is overmixing once the flour is added. Stir just until the ingredients are combined – lumpy batter is perfectly fine and will result in a tender, fluffy texture.

Incorrect Apple Preparation: Cutting apples too large or leaving the peel on can create uneven texture and longer baking times. Dice apples into 1/4-inch pieces and remove peels for the most consistent results in your Warm Cinnamon-Spiced Apple Bread.

Opening the Oven Door Too Early: Resist the temptation to check on your bread before the 50-minute mark. Frequent door opening causes temperature fluctuations that can lead to uneven baking or collapsed centers. Trust the process and let the magic happen undisturbed.

Storing Tips

Room Temperature Storage: Wrap your completely cooled Warm Cinnamon-Spiced Apple Bread tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container for up to 4 days at room temperature. This method maintains the perfect moisture balance while preserving the tender crumb texture.

Freezer Storage: For longer storage, wrap individual slices or the whole loaf in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight at room temperature or toast frozen slices directly for a quick morning treat.

Refresh and Serve: To restore that fresh-baked taste and aroma, warm slices in a 300°F oven for 5-8 minutes or microwave for 15-20 seconds. This gentle reheating brings back the fragrant spices and soft texture that makes this bread so irresistible.

FAQs

Warm Cinnamon-Spiced Apple Bread

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• Author: julia
• Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes to 2 hours 10 minutes
• Yield: 1 loaf (10-12 slices) 1x

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Description

This Warm Cinnamon-Spiced Apple Bread is the ultimate cozy fall bake — tender, moist, and filled with chunks of apple and aromatic spices. Every slice tastes like a comforting autumn morning in loaf form.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• • Dry Ingredients:
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

 

• • Wet Ingredients:
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup sour cream

 

• Mix-ins & Toppings:
• 2 cups finely chopped apples (preferably Granny Smith)
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
• 1 tablespoon turbinado sugar (for topping)

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Instructions

1. Step 1: Prepare the Pan
   Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment for easy removal.
2. Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
   In a large mixing bowl, cream softened butter and sugar together for 3–4 minutes until light and fluffy.
3. Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
   Beat in eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla and sour cream until just combined.
4. Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
   In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Gently fold dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just incorporated.
5. Step 5: Fold in Apples and Nuts
   Gently fold in chopped apples and nuts, coating apples in a bit of flour first to prevent sinking.
6. Step 6: Bake
   Pour batter into prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle turbinado sugar on top for a crunchy finish. Bake 55–65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Step 7: Cool and Serve
   Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack for 30 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

Store leftovers tightly wrapped at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Serve with butter, honey, or a drizzle of maple glaze for extra indulgence.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 65 minutes
• Category: Breakfast, Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 loaf)
• Calories: 260
• Sugar: 20g
• Sodium: 190mg
• Fat: 11g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 55mg

Keywords: apple bread, cinnamon bread, fall baking, spiced loaf, quick bread recipe