Apple Bread: The Perfect Fall Treat

The aroma of warm spices and sweet apples baking in the oven – is there anything that screams “fall” more? This Apple Bread recipe is the perfect way to capture the essence of the season in a delicious, moist, and comforting treat. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, this bread is destined to become a new family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Apple Bread

This Apple Bread recipe is more than just a loaf; it’s an experience! Here’s why you’ll be reaching for this recipe again and again:

• Incredible Flavor: The perfect blend of sweet apples and warm spices creates a symphony of flavors.
• Moist and Tender: Yogurt in the batter guarantees a deliciously moist crumb.
• Streusel Topping: A buttery, cinnamon-sugar streusel adds a delightful crunch and extra sweetness.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward instructions make this recipe perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Perfect for Fall: Embrace the flavors of the season with every slice.
• Makes a Great Gift: Share the warmth and joy of homemade bread with friends and family.
• Freezer-Friendly: Bake ahead and freeze for a quick and easy treat anytime.
• Versatile: Enjoy it for breakfast, brunch, snack, or dessert.

Rekindle cozy family memories with this irresistible treat!

Ingredients Needed for the Best Apple Bread

Here’s what you’ll need to bake this delightful Apple Bread. Quality ingredients are key to a delicious final product! Remember, all measurements are provided in both cups and grams for your convenience.

For the Bread:

• 2 1/2 cups / 315g all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon / 4g baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon / 3g salt
• 1 teaspoon / 2g ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon / 1g ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) / 113g unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup / 200g granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup / 100g packed light brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon / 5ml vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup / 120ml plain yogurt
• 2 cups / 240g peeled and diced apples (such as Honeycrisp or Gala) – Tip: Use a mix for complex flavor!
• 1/2 cup / 50g chopped walnuts or pecans (optional) – Pro Tip: Toast nuts lightly for enhanced flavor.

For the Streusel Topping:

• 1/4 cup / 30g all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup / 50g packed light brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons / 28g cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
• 1/4 teaspoon / 0.5g ground cinnamon

For the apples, look for varieties like Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji. These apples hold their shape well during baking and offer a naturally sweet flavor that complements the spices beautifully. For even more intense spice flavor, toast the cinnamon and nutmeg lightly in a dry pan before adding them to the flour mixture.

YOU MIGHT LOVE: German Chocolate Poke Cake – A decadent cake that chocolate lovers will adore.

Essential Equipment List for Apple Bread Baking

Having the right tools on hand will make the baking process smooth and enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Essential: 9×5 inch loaf pan for perfectly shaped bread.
• Essential: Mixing bowls for preparing the batter and streusel.
• Essential: Whisk for combining dry ingredients.
• Essential: Electric mixer or hand mixer for creaming butter and sugar.
• Essential: Measuring cups and spoons for accurate measurements.
• Optional: Pastry blender for cutting butter into the streusel topping (or use your fingers!).
• Essential: Wire rack for cooling the bread evenly.

Recipe Details at a Glance

Here’s a quick overview of what to expect when making this delicious Apple Bread:

• • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 55-65 minutes

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• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes – 1 hour 25 minutes
• Servings: 10-12 slices
• Difficulty: Easy

Scale up for a crowd; halve for a smaller treat!

Step-by-Step Instructions for Delicious Apple Bread

Follow these detailed instructions to create a perfect loaf of Apple Bread every time!

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan. This prevents sticking and ensures easy removal of the bread.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
2. Set aside. Combining dry ingredients ensures even distribution of leavening and spices.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

1. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Use an electric mixer for best results.
2. This step is crucial for creating a tender crumb.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

1. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Make sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

1. In a small bowl, combine yogurt with the creamed mixture alternately with the dry ingredients, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Do not overmix!
2. Overmixing can result in a tough bread.

Step 6: Fold in Apples and Nuts

1. Gently fold in the diced apples and nuts (if using).
2. Distribute the apples and nuts evenly throughout the batter.

Step 7: Prepare Streusel Topping

1. In a small bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
2. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. The cold butter is essential for creating a crumbly streusel.

Step 8: Assemble and Bake

1. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the batter.

Step 9: Bake to Perfection

1. Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
2. If the top starts to brown too quickly, tent it with foil during the last 15-20 minutes of baking.

Step 10: Cool and Serve

1. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.
2. Cooling completely allows the bread to set properly, making it easier to slice.

CHECK OUT: Cozy Apple Kringle with Vanilla Glaze – A delightful pastry with similar apple and spice flavors.

Tips for Success with Your Apple Bread

Baking can be a science, but with these tips, you’ll be on your way to a perfect loaf!

• • Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough bread. Mix until just combined.
  • Use Softened Butter: Softened butter creams more easily with the sugar, creating a light and airy batter.

• Cold Butter for Streusel: Cold butter ensures a crumbly streusel topping.
• Check for Doneness: A wooden skewer inserted into the center of the bread should come out clean. If it comes out with wet batter, bake for a few more minutes and check again.
• Cool Completely: Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing to prevent it from crumbling.

Variations & Substitutions for Custom Apple Bread

Want to add your own twist? Here are some delicious variations and substitutions you can try:

• Add Dried Fruit: Mix in 1/2 cup of raisins, dried cranberries, or chopped dates for extra sweetness and texture.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of ground cloves, cardamom, or ginger to the batter for a deeper, warmer flavor.
• Change the Nuts: Use different nuts like hazelnuts or macadamia nuts for a unique flavor profile.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a gluten-free version. You may need to add a binder like xanthan gum.
• Add Chocolate Chips: For an extra decadent treat, fold in 1/2 cup of chocolate chips (milk, dark, or white).

Serving Suggestions & Pairings with Apple Bread

Elevate your Apple Bread experience with these delicious serving suggestions and pairings!

• Warm with Butter: A classic and simple way to enjoy a slice of warm Apple Bread.
• Cream Cheese: Spread a generous layer of cream cheese for a tangy contrast to the sweetness of the bread.
• Apple Butter: A spoonful of apple butter intensifies the apple flavor.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: For a truly decadent dessert, serve warm Apple Bread with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Pair this delightful bread with a warm cup of coffee or tea for a perfect fall treat!

Health Benefits of Apple Bread

While Apple Bread is a delicious treat, it also offers some nutritional benefits!

• Fiber: Apples provide fiber, which aids digestion and promotes gut health.
• Vitamins: Apples contain vitamins like vitamin C, which supports the immune system.
• Antioxidants: Apples are rich in antioxidants, which protect against cell damage.
• Nuts: Nuts provide healthy fats, protein, and essential nutrients.

Enjoy this treat in moderation as part of a balanced diet. One slice contains approximately 2g of dietary fiber.

Storage & Reheating Your Baked Apple Bread

Here’s how to keep your Apple Bread fresh and delicious!

• Storage: Store cooled Apple Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• Reheating: Reheat slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes.
• Freezing: Freeze the whole loaf or individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Frequently Asked Questions About Apple Bread

Can I use different types of apples?

Yes! Honeycrisp, Gala, Fuji, and Granny Smith are all great options. Experiment with different varieties to find your favorite flavor combination.

Can I make this recipe without nuts?

Absolutely! Simply omit the nuts from the recipe. The bread will still be delicious.

Can I use a different type of yogurt?

Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for plain yogurt. It will result in a slightly tangier and richer bread.

How do I prevent the streusel topping from burning?

If the streusel topping starts to brown too quickly, tent the bread with foil during the last 15-20 minutes of baking.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double the recipe. Use two 9×5 inch loaf pans or one large bundt pan. Be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly.

How do I keep my bread moist?

Using yogurt in the batter is the key to a moist bread. Also, be careful not to overbake it.

Nutritional Information for Apple Bread

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 250
• Total Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Cholesterol: 30mg
• Sodium: 200mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 40g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Total Sugars: 25g
• Protein: 3g

Exact stats need a nutrition calculator.

More Delicious Dishes to Explore This Season

Craving more fall-inspired treats? Check out these other delicious recipes:

• Apple Cinnamon Coffee Cake with Streusel Topping – A delightful coffee cake that’s perfect for brunch.
• Apple Brownies Easy Fall Dessert – Fudgy brownies with chunks of sweet apple.
• Delectable Maple Apple Crisp – A warm and comforting dessert with a crunchy oat topping.

Conclusion

This Apple Bread recipe is a fast, flavorful, and guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s perfect for a cozy weekend baking project or a thoughtful homemade gift.

Share this recipe with your friends and family who would love it! Join our vibrant community on Facebook and Pinterest for daily recipe inspiration, cooking tips, and more tasty ideas! Happy cooking!

Whip it up tonight—tag us with your masterpiece! Let us know how it goes—comment below!

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