If you’re the kind of person who can’t resist the scent of cinnamon wafting through the kitchen—or the homey warmth of apples baking in the oven—then this Cinnamon Apple Bread will quickly become your new go-to comfort treat. Each generous slice shows off a gorgeous swirl of cinnamon-spiced apples and brown sugar, baked into a soft, golden loaf and finished with a sweet, spiced glaze. Whether you serve it for breakfast, take it to a potluck, or enjoy it by the slice with a mug of tea, Cinnamon Apple Bread is everything cozy and satisfying about fall, any time of year.

Cinnamon Apple Bread Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps things simple, relying on familiar pantry staples and a fresh apple for the magic. Don’t underestimate the impact of each ingredient—from the creamy butter to the ripple of cinnamon-sugar, every bit plays its part in the loaf’s dreamy flavor and moist crumb.

All-purpose flour: Gives the bread structure while keeping each bite tender and soft.
Baking powder: Ensures your loaf rises tall and fluffy every time.
Salt: Just a pinch brings out the flavors and balances the sweetness.
Unsalted butter: Softened for richness and melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Granulated sugar: Lends sweetness to the base and a delicate golden color.
Vanilla extract: Adds a cozy, aromatic note that’s the secret to that classic taste.
Large eggs: Provide structure and moisture, helping everything come together heartily.
Milk: Keeps the loaf beautifully moist without heaviness.
Light brown sugar: Used for the apple swirl and topping, bringing warm caramel notes.
Ground cinnamon: The star spice and signature flavor that gives this bread its crave-worthy charm.
Large apple: Peeled and chopped, it adds juicy bursts of fruit and a natural sweetness throughout.
Confectioners’ sugar: The base for the glaze, making every bite a little more special.
Water: Just enough to thin the glaze to the perfect drizzle-able consistency.

How to Make Cinnamon Apple Bread

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Take a moment to grease and flour an 8.5 x 4.5 inch loaf pan thoroughly, so you can easily lift out your Cinnamon Apple Bread later. You’ll thank yourself at cleanup time!

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This quick step ensures you end up with evenly distributed rising power and no little lumps of anything in your finished loaf.

Step 3: Cream Butter, Sugar, and Vanilla

Using either a stand mixer or an electric hand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract on medium-high. Go for about 3-4 minutes—your mixture should look creamy, pale, and fluffy. This step gives your Cinnamon Apple Bread its melt-in-your-mouth texture, so don’t rush!

Step 4: Add Eggs

Lower the mixer speed and beat in the eggs, one at a time, just until incorporated. Scrape down the bowl with a spatula between additions. This helps keep the batter smooth and consistent.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Now, with the mixer on low speed, add half of your dry flour mixture, then half the milk. Repeat with the rest of the flour and milk, mixing gently just until combined. The key is to avoid over-mixing so your loaf stays tender.

Step 6: Prepare the Apple Swirl

In a separate bowl, toss your diced apple with light brown sugar and ground cinnamon until each piece is well-coated. This mix will turn almost syrupy and will form the gorgeous marbled swirl throughout your Cinnamon Apple Bread.

Step 7: Assemble the Loaf

Pour half the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle half your apple mixture over the top. Take a knife or skewer and give it a gentle swirl—just enough to ripple, not so much that the layers vanish. Repeat with the remaining batter and apples. Top with the brown sugar-cinnamon mixture for an irresistible crust. Swirl lightly again if you like wide, cinnamon-y pockets.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Place your pan in the center of the oven and bake for 45 to 55 minutes. Check at the 45-minute mark—a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with only a few moist crumbs (soft apples will keep things tender in the middle!).

Step 9: Cool and Glaze

Remove your Cinnamon Apple Bread from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 15 to 20 minutes. While it cools, whisk together confectioners’ sugar, ground cinnamon, and water for your glaze. Lift the bread from the pan (a parchment sling really helps!), set on a rack, and drizzle generously with glaze. Let it cool completely before slicing—if you can wait!

How to Serve Cinnamon Apple Bread

Garnishes

This loaf already comes with its own cinnamon-kissed glaze, but you can take things up a notch. Dust with a little extra cinnamon or a light shower of powdered sugar for a bakery finish. Thin apple slices or a few toasted pecans also make lovely, simple accents.

Side Dishes

Pair a thick, warm slice of Cinnamon Apple Bread with a cup of hot coffee or spiced chai for an unbeatable breakfast treat. It also makes a delightful dessert served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a puddle of caramel sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For brunch, cut the loaf into cubes and serve in a bread basket with a pot of honey butter. Or, turn leftover slices into decadent French toast—just dip in egg batter and griddle as usual. Arrange slices on a platter with fresh fruit, and you’ve got a show-stopping centerpiece for any gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Cinnamon Apple Bread at room temperature, wrapped tightly or in an airtight container, for up to 2 to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen and mellow after a day, making each slice even more delicious.

Freezing

To freeze, let the bread cool completely, then wrap individual slices or the whole loaf snugly in plastic wrap and foil. It will keep its flavor and texture in the freezer for up to three months—just defrost overnight before serving.

Reheating

Warm slices gently in the microwave for about 15 to 20 seconds, or in a low oven wrapped in foil. This revives that fresh-baked aroma and soft crumb, especially after freezing. Add an extra drizzle of glaze if you really want to treat yourself!

FAQs

Can I use a different type of apple in this Cinnamon Apple Bread?

Yes, feel free to use whatever apples you have on hand! Both tart Granny Smiths and sweet Galas work beautifully. Aim for apples that hold their shape when baked for best texture throughout the loaf.

Why is my bread too dense or dry?

Over-mixing or using too much flour can make the loaf dense or dry. Be gentle when combining the wet and dry ingredients, and ensure you’re measuring flour using the spoon-and-level method for accuracy.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute a good-quality cup-for-cup gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the regular flour. Just be sure other ingredients are certified gluten-free if needed.

How do I prevent the apples from sinking to the bottom?

Make sure to coat the apples well with brown sugar and cinnamon, then layer and swirl them gently into the batter as directed—don’t just dump them on top! The batter’s thickness will help suspend the apple pieces.

Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?

You can double the ingredients and bake the batter in two loaf pans. Keep an eye on baking time, as larger or multiple loaves may need a few extra minutes to cook through completely.

Final Thoughts

This Cinnamon Apple Bread really is a special treat—perfect for sharing, gifting, or simply enjoying with your favorite drink on a quiet morning. If you love the sweet harmony of apples and cinnamon, I promise this easy loaf will become a star in your baking rotation. Give it a try, and let your kitchen fill with the irresistible aroma of homemade goodness!