Apple Bread Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful treat to brighten your day, this Apple Bread Recipe is just the ticket! It’s sweet, moist, and bursting with juicy apple chunks and crunchy pecans. I’ve made this bread countless times for family gatherings and cozy weekends at home, and it never fails to bring smiles. Whether you’re serving it warm from the oven or enjoying a slice with your morning coffee, it’s the perfect pick-me-up for any occasion.

What makes this recipe extra special is how easy it is to prepare. With simple ingredients that you likely already have on hand, you can whip up this delicious bread in no time. It’s also a fantastic way to use up extra apples, making it a go-to option during apple season or any busy weeknight when you need a sweet escape!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few steps, you can have a fresh loaf ready to enjoy in under two hours.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love helping out in the kitchen, and they’ll be thrilled to taste their hard work!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake a loaf ahead of time, and it keeps well for days—perfect for breakfast or snacks.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of spices and nuts creates an irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that are sure to make this Apple Bread Recipe shine. You might already have most of them in your pantry!

For the Bread

• 1 3/4 cups all purpose flour
• 2 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 2 large eggs (room temperature)
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 1/3 cup vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons applesauce
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups finely chopped peeled apples
• 1 cup chopped toasted pecans

For the 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! You can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences.

• Add Dried Fruit: Toss in some raisins or cranberries for an extra sweet touch.
• Go Nut-Free: If allergies are a concern, simply omit the pecans or replace them with sunflower seeds.
• Try Different Spices: Experiment with cardamom or allspice for a unique flavor twist.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend.

How to Make Apple Bread Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Greasing a loaf pan will ensure your bread comes out perfectly without sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and baking powder. This step helps distribute the leavening agents evenly throughout the flour, which is key for that lovely rise!

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, beat together the eggs, sugar, vegetable oil, applesauce, and vanilla extract until smooth. This mixture provides moisture and sweetness—just what we want in our bread.

Step 4: Blend It All Together

Now it’s time to bring everything together! Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix just until combined; overmixing can make your bread dense. Gently fold in those chopped apples and half of the toasted pecans—this adds texture and flavor!

Step 5: Top It Off

In a small bowl, combine the remaining pecans with sugar and ground cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture generously over your bread batter before baking. This will give your apple bread a delightful crispy topping!

Step 6: Bake

Pour your batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 55-60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached.

Step 7: Cool Before Serving

Once out of the oven, allow your apple bread to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes before transferring it onto a wire rack. This cooling time helps set its structure so you can slice it perfectly!

There you have it—a warm Apple Bread Recipe that’s sure to become one of your favorites! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Bread Recipe

Baking apple bread is a delightful experience, and with a few handy tips, you can make it even better!

• Choose the Right Apples: Opt for firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. Their tartness adds a wonderful balance to the sweetness of the bread and helps maintain a nice texture.
• Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf instead of a light and fluffy one.
• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Bringing eggs and other ingredients to room temperature helps them blend more easily, resulting in a smoother batter that rises beautifully in the oven.
• Add Extra Cinnamon: For those who love a spicier flavor profile, consider adding an extra pinch of cinnamon into the batter. This will enhance the overall taste and aroma of your apple bread.
• Store Properly: After baking, wrap your apple bread tightly in plastic wrap or foil. This keeps it moist and fresh for several days, making it perfect for snacking or breakfast on-the-go!

How to Serve Apple Bread Recipe

Apple bread is not just delicious; it’s also versatile! You can serve it in various ways to impress your friends and family.

Garnishes

• Chopped Pecans: Sprinkle some chopped pecans on top after baking for an added crunch that complements the soft texture of the bread.
• Maple Syrup Drizzle: A light drizzle of maple syrup over each slice adds an extra layer of sweetness that pairs perfectly with the apples.
• Whipped Coconut Cream: For a dairy-free option, serve slices with whipped coconut cream on the side for a creamy contrast.

Side Dishes

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits offers a refreshing contrast to the sweet apple bread while adding nutritional value.
• Greek Yogurt: A bowl of Greek yogurt provides a creamy and tangy balance to the sweetness of apple bread. You can even add honey for extra flavor!
• Coffee or Tea: Pairing your apple bread with a warm cup of coffee or tea enhances its comforting qualities—ideal for brunch or afternoon snacks.
• Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses, such as sharp cheddar or creamy brie, complements the flavors of apple bread beautifully while providing a savory touch to your meal.

Enjoy experimenting with these serving suggestions! Your homemade apple bread will be an irresistible treat that everyone will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Apple Bread Recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a loaf ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week. It’s versatile, delicious, and keeps well, making it an excellent choice for breakfast or a sweet snack.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the bread to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped bread in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
• Store at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Slice the cooled bread for easier thawing later.
• Wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap.
• Place wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For individual slices, remove from the freezer and let thaw at room temperature.
• Reheat in a toaster or microwave until warm (about 15-20 seconds in the microwave).
• If reheating the whole loaf, wrap it in foil and warm it in a preheated oven at 350 degrees for about 15-20 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delightful Apple Bread Recipe.

Can you freeze apple bread?

Yes! You can freeze apple bread by slicing it and wrapping each piece individually. It will maintain its flavor and texture for up to 3 months in the freezer.

How to make apple bread?

Making apple bread is simple! Just mix your dry ingredients, combine them with wet ingredients, fold in apples and pecans, then bake. Follow this Apple Bread Recipe for detailed steps!

What can I serve with apple bread?

Apple bread pairs wonderfully with a warm cup of tea or coffee. You can also enjoy it with a spread of almond butter or cream cheese for added flavor.

How long does this apple bread last?

When stored properly at room temperature, apple bread lasts about 3 days. If frozen, it can last up to 3 months while maintaining its delicious taste!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Apple Bread Recipe as much as I do! Its comforting aroma fills the kitchen while baking, and each slice is a delightful treat that brings warmth to any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it fresh out of the oven or savoring leftovers throughout the week, it’s sure to bring smiles all around. Happy baking!