There is something incredibly comforting about a homemade loaf that combines the sweet tartness of apples with the warm, inviting flavors of cinnamon in every bite. This Cinnamon Apple Bread with Cinnamon Sugar Topping and Glaze Recipe is an absolute crowd-pleaser, perfect for cozy mornings, afternoon teas, or even as a delightful dessert. Imagine tender bread dotted with juicy apple pieces, swirled with a spiced cinnamon sugar layer, and finished with a sweet, creamy glaze that makes each slice simply irresistible. Once you try this recipe, it’s going to become your go-to for showcasing autumn flavors all year round.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses simple, everyday ingredients that come together to create an extraordinary loaf. Each component plays a key role, from the flour providing structure to the cinnamon adding that signature warm spice, and the apples giving it fresh, fruity bursts of flavor.
- All-purpose flour (1 ½ cups): The base of the bread that creates a tender yet sturdy crumb.
- Baking powder (1 ½ tsp): Helps the bread rise and become light and fluffy.
- Salt (½ tsp): Enhances all the flavors, but reduce to ¼ tsp if using salted butter to avoid over-salting.
- Unsalted butter (½ cup, softened): Provides richness and moisture to the bread.
- Granulated sugar (¾ cup): Sweetens the batter and contributes to a lovely golden crust.
- Large eggs (2, room temperature): Bind the ingredients together and add tenderness.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Adds a subtle depth of flavor.
- Whole milk (½ cup): Makes the bread moist and soft; you can substitute 2% milk if needed.
- Chopped apples (1 ½ cups): Choose crisp varieties like Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Jonagold for that perfect mix of tart and sweet.
- Light brown sugar (½ cup plus 2 tbsp): Used both in the batter and as part of the cinnamon sugar topping for extra caramel notes.
- Ground cinnamon (1 tsp plus ½ tsp and ¼ tsp optional): The star spice that ties all the flavors together.
- Confectioner’s sugar (½ cup): For making the luscious glaze.
- Milk (1–2 tbsp for glaze): Adjusted to get the perfect pourable consistency for the glaze.
How to Make Cinnamon Apple Bread with Cinnamon Sugar Topping and Glaze Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan
Begin by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s nice and hot when the batter is ready. Grease and flour an 8.5 x 4.5-inch loaf pan thoroughly to make sure the bread won’t stick. This simple prep ensures an easy release later and a professional finish.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This step is essential to distribute the leavening agents evenly and make sure that every slice of bread has a consistent, fluffy texture.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar, Add Eggs and Vanilla
Using a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy—this usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Then, add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition so everything emulsifies perfectly. Finish by stirring in the aromatic vanilla extract which elevates the flavor with a lovely warmth.
Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients Alternating with Milk
Slowly fold the flour mixture into the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Mixing until just combined is crucial here; overmixing can develop gluten which will make the bread dense rather than tender and soft. The batter should be thick but pourable.
Step 5: Combine Apples with Cinnamon Sugar Mixture and Layer
In another bowl, mix the light brown sugar and cinnamon to create the sweet, spiced cinnamon sugar that makes this bread truly special. Fold 1 cup of the chopped apples into the batter. Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan, sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar and apple mixture over it, then add the remaining batter on top, finishing with the rest of the cinnamon apple mixture.
Step 6: Add the Cinnamon Sugar Topping
Finally, sprinkle the remaining cinnamon sugar topping (2 tbsp brown sugar mixed with ½ tsp cinnamon) evenly over the top. This layer will caramelize beautifully during baking, giving the bread an irresistible crunchy crust that contrasts the soft interior.
Step 7: Bake the Bread
Bake for 50 to 55 minutes, checking doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center—it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. After removing from the oven, let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes so it firms up before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 8: Prepare and Drizzle the Glaze
Whisk together the confectioner’s sugar, milk, and optional cinnamon in a small bowl until smooth. Adjust with milk to reach the perfect consistency for drizzling. Once the bread is fully cooled, generously drizzle the glaze over the top, letting it drizzle down the sides for that picture-perfect finish.
How to Serve Cinnamon Apple Bread with Cinnamon Sugar Topping and Glaze Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch, sprinkle chopped toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts on top of the glaze or add a few thin apple slices for decoration. A light dusting of cinnamon powder can enhance the aroma just before serving.
Side Dishes
This bread pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or chai tea. For a more indulgent treat, serve it alongside vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Fresh fruit salad or a smear of cream cheese also complement the flavors beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice the bread and serve it warm with melted butter for a cozy brunch. For gatherings, cut it into bite-sized squares and arrange on a platter with small picks as a sweet finger food. You can also toast leftover slices lightly and spread them with almond butter or honey for a quick snack.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After baking, store any leftover cinnamon apple bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Keeping it covered well prevents it from drying out and preserves the moist texture and vivid flavors.
Freezing
This recipe freezes very well. Wrap the whole loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil or place slices between parchment paper in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen cinnamon apple bread can be stored for up to two months and thawed overnight in the fridge or at room temperature before enjoying.
Reheating
To refresh the warmth and softness, reheat slices in a toaster oven or regular oven at 300°F for 5 to 7 minutes. You can also microwave slices for 15-20 seconds, but be warned this may make the bread a bit chewy if heated for too long.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of flour?
All-purpose flour works best for this bread to achieve the ideal texture. You can try whole wheat flour for a heartier loaf, but consider substituting only half to keep the bread tender.
What apples are best for this recipe?
Crisp and slightly tart apples like Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Jonagold are ideal because they hold their shape during baking and add a nice balance of sweetness and acidity.
Can I make this bread dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the butter with a plant-based margarine and use almond or oat milk instead of cow’s milk. The texture and flavor will still be delicious and moist.
Do I have to add the cinnamon glaze?
The glaze adds a lovely sweetness and finishing touch, but if you prefer, you can skip it or simply dust the cooled bread with powdered sugar for a lighter finish.
How do I know when the bread is fully baked?
Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the bread is done. If batter sticks to the toothpick, it needs a few more minutes in the oven.
Final Thoughts
This Cinnamon Apple Bread with Cinnamon Sugar Topping and Glaze Recipe is such a joyful way to fill your kitchen with the comforting aromas of cinnamon and baked apples. It’s easy to make, wonderfully moist, and packed with flavor that brings smiles every time. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this recipe a try, whether for a cozy morning treat or sharing with friends and family over a warm cup of tea. Once you taste it, I promise it’ll become a beloved staple in your baking repertoire!
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Cinnamon Apple Bread with Cinnamon Sugar Topping and Glaze Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50-55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (8-10 servings)
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cinnamon Apple Bread is a moist and flavorful loaf perfect for breakfast or a cozy snack. Made with fresh chopped apples and a cinnamon sugar swirl, it combines the warmth of cinnamon with the natural sweetness of apples. Topped with a lightly spiced glaze, this bread is easy to make and offers a deliciously comforting treat.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt (reduce to ¼ tsp if using salted butter)
Wet Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup whole milk (or 2% milk)
Fruit and Spice Mix
- 1 ½ cups chopped apples (Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Jonagold)
- ½ cup light brown sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
Topping Ingredients
- 2 tbsp light brown sugar
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
Glaze Ingredients
- ½ cup confectioner’s sugar
- 1–2 tbsp milk
- ¼ tsp cinnamon (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8.5 x 4.5-inch loaf pan to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agents and seasoning.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition for proper incorporation. Then stir in the vanilla extract for flavor.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with whole milk. Mix gently until just combined to avoid overworking the batter, which can make the bread dense.
- Add Apples and Cinnamon Mixture: In a separate bowl, mix the light brown sugar and cinnamon together. Fold 1 cup of the chopped apples into the batter carefully. Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon and brown sugar apple mixture over the batter. Add the remaining batter on top, then top with the remaining chopped apples and cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- Top with Cinnamon Sugar: Combine the remaining brown sugar and ground cinnamon in a small bowl and sprinkle evenly over the top of the batter in the pan to create a sweet, crunchy topping while baking.
- Bake the Bread: Bake in the preheated oven for 50-55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating the bread is fully cooked. Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely, which helps the bread set properly.
- Prepare Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the confectioner’s sugar, milk, and optional cinnamon until smooth. Adjust milk quantity to reach your desired glaze consistency—thicker for drizzling or thinner for pouring.
- Glaze and Serve: Drizzle the glaze evenly over the cooled bread. Slice and serve this delicious cinnamon apple bread as a perfect comfort food treat for any time of the day.
Notes
- Use firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best texture and balance of sweet-tart flavor.
- Do not overmix the batter to maintain a tender crumb.
- Adjust the cinnamon in the glaze to taste for more or less spice.
- Ensure the bread is completely cool before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting and running off.
- Store leftovers wrapped tightly at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
