Introduction

Apple Cinnamon Loaf is a warm, fragrant treat perfect for cozy mornings or dessert. This moist, spiced loaf is packed with fresh apples and a delightful cinnamon sugar topping that creates a sweet crust. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is easy to follow and sure to impress.

A close-up of a sliced banana bread loaf on a light wooden board placed on a white marbled surface. The bread has a golden brown, slightly crisp crust on top with visible pieces of banana and a moist, dense interior that is light brown with small chunked textures. Two slices are cut from the loaf and lay in front, showing the soft and fluffy inside. The background is softly blurred, highlighting the bread's texture and color. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour, sifted

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened

3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar

2 large eggs, at room temperature

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 cup (120ml) buttermilk (or sour cream)

2 medium apples (about 2 cups/250g), peeled, cored, and diced small

For the topping: 2 tablespoons (25g) granulated sugar

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan. For easy removal, line the pan with parchment paper.

Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.

Step 3: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Add eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 4: Alternately add the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix gently until combined; avoid overmixing.

Step 5: Fold the diced apples into the batter evenly, then pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.

Step 6: Mix the topping sugar and cinnamon, sprinkle evenly over the batter, and bake for 50-55 minutes. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.

Step 7: Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips & Variations

Add 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans for a nutty crunch.

Drizzle caramel sauce on top after baking for a rich dessert twist.

Try a streusel topping by mixing 1/4 cup flour, 1/4 cup brown sugar, and 2 tablespoons cold butter before sprinkling on the batter.

Add 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves or allspice to deepen the spice flavor.

Include 1/3 cup raisins with the apples for extra chewiness.

Whisk 1/2 cup powdered sugar with 2 tablespoons maple syrup for a glossy maple glaze.

Fold in 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips for a sweeter treat.

Substitute half the flour with whole wheat for added fiber and a nuttier taste.

Reduce sugar to 1/2 cup and add a mashed banana for natural sweetness.

Replace half the butter with unsweetened applesauce to reduce fat while keeping moisture.

Use one whole egg plus two egg whites to lower cholesterol.

FAQs

Can I use canned or pre-chopped apples instead of fresh?

Fresh apples provide the best texture and flavor, but in a pinch, you can use unsweetened applesauce as a substitute. If using applesauce, reduce the buttermilk slightly to keep the batter from becoming too wet.

How do I know when the loaf is fully baked?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the loaf is done. A wet batter on the toothpick means it needs more time baking.