Apple Bread Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting treat that fills your kitchen with the sweet aroma of baked apples and spices, this Apple Bread Recipe is just what you need! This quick and easy bread is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s also a fantastic choice for family gatherings or cozy brunches. The combination of tender apple chunks and crunchy pecans makes each slice a little piece of heaven.

What really makes this apple bread special is its delightful cinnamon-pecan topping. It adds just the right amount of sweetness and texture, making it hard to resist! Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll understand why this recipe has become a cherished favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 20 minutes to prep, making it perfect for those who need a fast yet delicious dessert.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone will love the sweet flavor of apples combined with crunchy pecans—kids and adults alike!
• Make-Ahead Option: Bake it ahead of time and enjoy it warm or at room temperature, making it great for meal prep or unexpected guests.
• Versatile Serving Ideas: Serve it as a snack, breakfast treat, or even dessert—this bread fits any occasion!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to make this delightful apple bread. You probably have most of these in your pantry already!

Dry Ingredients

• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon baking powder

Wet Ingredients

• 2 large eggs (room temperature)
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 1/3 cup vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons applesauce
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Add-ins

• 2 cups finely chopped peeled apples
• 1 cup chopped toasted pecans

Topping

• 1 tablespoon sugar for sprinkling the top
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Variations

One of the best things about this Apple Bread Recipe is its flexibility! Here are some fun ways to switch things up:

• Add Dried Fruits: Toss in some raisins or cranberries for an extra pop of flavor and chewiness.
• Go Nut-Free: Omit the pecans if someone has a nut allergy, or replace them with sunflower seeds for crunch.
• Mix in Other Spices: Experiment with ginger or cardamom to create your own unique flavor profile.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that works well for baking.

How to Make Apple Bread Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Greasing your loaf pan now will save you time later when you’re ready to pour in that delicious batter.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and baking powder. Mixing these dry ingredients ensures that the spices are evenly distributed throughout the bread.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together the eggs, sugar, vegetable oil, applesauce, and vanilla extract until well combined. The moisture from these ingredients will keep your bread soft and flavorful.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gently add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture and stir just until incorporated. Be careful not to overmix; we want our bread light and fluffy! Now fold in those lovely pieces of apple along with half of the chopped pecans.

Step 5: Prepare Topping & Bake

In a small bowl, combine the remaining pecans with 1 tablespoon of sugar and 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture over the top of your batter before placing it in the oven. Bake for 55-60 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean or with only a few moist crumbs attached. Let it cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes before inverting onto a wire rack.

Now you have a beautiful loaf of apple bread ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Bread Recipe

Making apple bread can be a delightful experience, especially when you have a few tricks up your sleeve!

• Use fresh apples: Fresh apples provide the best flavor and texture. Opt for a mix of sweet and tart varieties like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp for a balanced taste.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Gently folding in the dry ingredients ensures your bread remains fluffy and tender. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf.
• Toast the pecans: Toasting enhances the nutty flavor and adds a lovely crunch to your bread. Just a few minutes in a dry skillet will do the trick!
• Cool properly: Allowing the bread to cool in the pan for a while before transferring it helps maintain its shape. This prevents any unwanted crumbles when you slice it.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust or add spices like ginger or allspice according to your personal preference. This can elevate the flavor profile of your bread.

How to Serve Apple Bread Recipe

Serving apple bread is an opportunity to get creative and make your presentation as delightful as the flavors within!

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar on top adds a touch of sweetness and makes it visually appealing.
• Cinnamon whipped cream: A dollop of cinnamon-infused whipped cream provides a creamy contrast that complements the spices in the bread.
• Chopped nuts: Sprinkling some additional chopped pecans on top not only enhances presentation but also boosts texture.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the apple bread.
• Yogurt parfait: Layering yogurt with granola and berries creates a delightful side that pairs well with the warm flavors of apple bread.
• Herbal tea: A soothing cup of herbal tea, like chamomile or mint, serves as a comforting beverage that complements this sweet treat beautifully.
• Cheese platter: A selection of mild cheeses, such as brie or cream cheese, provides a savory contrast that enhances your overall tasting experience.

Enjoy sharing this delicious apple bread recipe with friends and family! Whether it’s for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack, this sweet loaf is sure to become a cherished favorite.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Apple Bread Recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip up a batch in advance, allowing you to enjoy its deliciousness throughout the week or even share it with friends and family.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the bread to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store it at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• For extra freshness, place it in an airtight container.

Freezing

• Slice the bread into individual portions for easier thawing.
• Wrap each slice in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Label the bag with the date and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• To thaw, leave it at room temperature or microwave for a few seconds.

Reheating

• If frozen, let the slices thaw completely.
• Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
• Place slices on a baking sheet and warm them for about 10 minutes.
• Alternatively, use a microwave for about 15-20 seconds per slice until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe:

Can I make this Apple Bread Recipe without nuts?

Absolutely! If you prefer a nut-free option, simply omit the pecans or substitute them with seeds like sunflower seeds for added crunch.

How do I freeze apple bread?

Freezing your Apple Bread Recipe is easy! Slice and wrap each portion securely before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. Enjoy fresh slices later!

What makes this Apple Bread Recipe special?

This recipe is special because of its tender crumb, packed with juicy apples and crunchy pecans, all topped off with a sweet cinnamon sugar crust that adds texture and flavor.

Can I use other fruits in this bread?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with other fruits such as pears or berries. Just ensure they are finely chopped and not too watery to maintain the bread’s texture.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Apple Bread Recipe as much as I do! It’s an ideal treat for breakfast, snacks, or dessert that fills your home with delightful aromas. Don’t hesitate to share this recipe with friends or enjoy it during cozy moments at home. Happy baking!