If you’re looking for a home-baked treat that fills your kitchen with the heartwarming aromas of apples and spice, this Classic Apple Cinnamon Bread is just what you need. Every bite is a cozy celebration of fall, with sweet apple chunks and an irresistible cinnamon sugar swirl tucked inside a perfectly tender loaf. Whether you serve it for breakfast, brunch, or as an afternoon pick-me-up alongside your favorite hot drink, this is the kind of recipe you’ll want to make again and again—for holidays, get-togethers, or simply because it makes any day feel special!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating a delectable Classic Apple Cinnamon Bread only calls for pantry basics and a couple of key fresh items. Each ingredient brings its own wonderful characteristic, from the apples that give juiciness and sweetness to the warming spices and buttery crumb that will keep everyone coming back for another slice.

All-purpose flour: This reliable staple creates the perfect tender and sturdy crumb for your loaf.
Baking powder: Gives the bread a light rise and beautiful loaf shape.
Baking soda: Works with the sour cream to keep everything moist and fluffy.
Salt: Enhances sweetness and deepens the flavor of every bite.
Ground cinnamon: The signature spice, lending irresistible warmth and aroma throughout.
Ground nutmeg: A touch adds depth and classic autumn spice in the background.
Unsalted butter, softened: For rich flavor and tender texture—let it come to room temperature for easier mixing.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the loaf and helps create that gorgeous golden crust.
Brown sugar, packed: Brings a hint of caramel flavor and even more moisture.
Large eggs: Binds the ingredients and brings structure and lift.
Sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt): Adds luscious moisture and a tangy undertone that balances sweetness.
Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors with a classic, comforting scent.
Apples, peeled and chopped: The stars of this recipe; use a tart-sweet variety for best results.
Chopped walnuts or pecans (optional): Adds crunch and nutty flavor—perfect for textural contrast.
Cinnamon-Sugar Swirl (¼ cup sugar + 1 tsp cinnamon, mixed): Creates that dreamy, sweet ribbon throughout the bread.

How to Make

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take a moment to grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan, or simply line it with parchment paper for easy removal. This little step is the secret to that beautifully released loaf every time!

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This aromatic mix is what sets Classic Apple Cinnamon Bread apart—breaking up any clumps and evenly distributing the spices ensures every bite is infused with warm, cozy flavor.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with both the granulated and brown sugars until light and fluffy. This not only gives the bread structure, but it also introduces air for a soft, tender crumb. Don’t rush this step—the creamier, the better!

Step 4: Add Eggs, Sour Cream, and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Next, blend in the sour cream and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and beautifully creamy. The sour cream really is the secret weapon for bakery-quality moistness.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Now, gently fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, taking care not to over-mix. This helps keep your Classic Apple Cinnamon Bread light and tender—no dense loaves here! Stir just until you see the flour disappear.

Step 6: Stir in Apples and Nuts

Add those gorgeous chunks of apples (and chopped nuts if you like) into your batter. Lightly fold everything together so the fruit is evenly distributed. Every slice should have a good helping of juicy apple!

Step 7: Layer and Swirl the Batter

Pour half the batter into your prepared loaf pan and sprinkle half the cinnamon-sugar swirl mixture over the top. Add the rest of the batter and finish with the remaining cinnamon-sugar swirl. A quick swirl with a skewer or butter knife makes magic happen, creating beautiful pockets of sweet spice throughout your Classic Apple Cinnamon Bread.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Slide your pan into the oven and bake for 55 to 65 minutes. The bread is ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean (a few moist crumbs are perfect). This is a good time to enjoy those incredible baking aromas wafting through your home!

Step 9: Cool and Slice

Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then gently transfer it to a wire rack to finish cooling. This helps the structure set, so you get those lovely, tidy slices when it’s time to serve.

How to Serve

Garnishes

A warm slice is already delectable, but a little extra love in the form of a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of simple vanilla glaze can make your presentation truly special. A small pat of butter melting over a thick slice is never a bad idea either!

Side Dishes

If you’re planning a breakfast or brunch, Classic Apple Cinnamon Bread pairs beautifully with a dish of creamy yogurt, a handful of fresh berries, or some crispy bacon if you like sweet-salty combinations. For afternoon snacks, it’s delicious served with a cup of coffee or a chai latte.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing your Classic Apple Cinnamon Bread, toasting it lightly, and spreading with cream cheese for a fun twist. For dessert, serve it slightly warmed with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. You can even cut it into cubes for a festive fall trifle layered with caramel sauce and apples.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Classic Apple Cinnamon Bread stays moist and flavorful at room temperature for up to three days. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. This keeps the crumb soft and prevents it from drying out—although it rarely lasts that long in my house!

Freezing

If you’d like to keep some for another day, this bread freezes beautifully. Once fully cooled, wrap the loaf (or individual slices) snugly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, or place them in a zip-top freezer bag. It will keep well in the freezer for up to three months. Just thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Reheating

To bring back that fresh-baked magic, pop a slice in the microwave for 10–15 seconds or toast it lightly in the oven. This revives the aroma and soft texture, making day-old Classic Apple Cinnamon Bread every bit as delightful.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of apple?

Absolutely! Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, and Fuji are all excellent choices, but feel free to use any firm, flavorful apple. Softer apples can break down more during baking, but the flavor will still be delicious.

Is it possible to make this bread dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the butter for plant-based margarine and use a non-dairy yogurt instead of sour cream. Choose a neutral-flavored non-dairy milk if needed for the right consistency.

What if I don’t have a loaf pan?

You can bake Classic Apple Cinnamon Bread in mini loaf pans (just reduce the baking time) or even turn the recipe into muffins—just check for doneness a bit earlier!

How do I know when the bread is baked through?

Your best tool is the trusty toothpick test. Insert it into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs (but no wet batter), it’s ready. The top will also spring back gently if pressed.

Can I add mix-ins or change the spices?

Definitely! Chopped nuts, dried cranberries, or even chocolate chips are all tasty additions. You can switch up the warm spices with a pinch of cardamom, ginger, or even pumpkin pie spice for a different twist.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been searching for a foolproof, crowd-pleasing bake, Classic Apple Cinnamon Bread is your answer. It’s a recipe that wins hearts for breakfast, snacks, dessert, and everywhere in between. Don’t wait for cold weather to give it a try—your home will smell incredible, and your friends and family will thank you for it!