Cozy 15-Min Prep Apple Cinnamon Bread Recipe (2025)
As the leaves begin to change and the crisp autumn air settles in, there’s no better time to bake something warm, comforting, and downright irresistible. Enter: apple cinnamon bread, the cozy, sweet, quick bread that tastes just like fall in every slice.
This recipe is easy to make, uses pantry staples, and is bursting with the flavor of fresh apples and cinnamon sugar.
Whether you’re serving it for a lazy weekend brunch, sharing it as a holiday gift, or simply enjoying a warm slice with a mug of tea, this apple cinnamon bread is a must-bake for the season.
So, roll up your sleeves, preheat your oven, and get ready to fill your kitchen with the comforting aroma of fall.
Why You’ll Love This Apple Cinnamon Bread
Let’s be real: some recipes just feel like a warm hug, and this one is it.
Here’s why this apple cinnamon bread is going to become your go-to quick bread all season long:
1. It’s the Ultimate Fall Bread
This isn’t just any sweet bread. It’s bursting with cozy fall flavors thanks to juicy apples and a rich cinnamon sugar swirl. One bite and you’re instantly transported to crisp autumn mornings, sweaters, and mugs of hot coffee.
2. Fresh Apples = Big Flavor
You’re not using store-bought apple flavoring here, you’re dicing real, fresh apples into every layer. As it bakes, the apples soften, release their juices, and infuse every bite with natural sweetness and texture.
And the best part? You can use your favorite kind of apple. Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Golden Delicious all work beautifully, depending on whether you want a tart or sweet flavor.
3. A Hidden Cinnamon Sugar Layer
One of the highlights of this bread is the middle layer of cinnamon sugar. It melts slightly into the batter as it bakes, giving you that warm spiced surprise in the center, plus a sweet topping that gets just the right amount of crunch on top.
4. Incredibly Moist Without Butter or Oil
Thanks to applesauce and apple juice, this bread turns out wonderfully moist without the need for oil or butter in the batter. It’s light but rich, soft but not soggy, truly the best texture.
5. Quick and Easy to Make
This is a no-yeast, one-bowl, no-fuss kind of recipe. You don’t need fancy equipment or ingredients. Just mix, layer, and bake. It’s easy enough for beginners and still satisfying for seasoned bakers.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a full breakdown of everything you’ll need to make this apple cinnamon bread, based on the adapted subtitle content. These are separated by category for easier prep:
| Category | Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apple Prep | Apple (Granny Smith or similar) | 1 large | Peeled, cored, and diced |
| Lemon Juice | 1 teaspoon | Prevents browning and enhances flavor | |
| Cinnamon Sugar | Light Brown Sugar | ½ cup (packed) | For layering in the middle and on top |
| Ground Cinnamon | 2 teaspoons | Mixed with brown sugar | |
| Dry Ingredients | All-Purpose Flour | 1½ cups | Provides structure |
| Baking Powder | 1½ teaspoons | Leavening agent | |
| Table Salt | ¼ teaspoon | Balances the sweetness | |
| Wet Ingredients | Applesauce | ½ cup | Adds moisture without fat |
| Eggs (extra large, room temperature) | 2 | Binds and helps with lift | |
| White Granulated Sugar | ⅔ cup | Sweetens the batter | |
| Pure Vanilla Extract | 1½ teaspoons | Adds warmth and depth | |
| Apple Juice (room temperature) | ½ cup | Enhances the apple flavor | |
| Other | Baking Spray or Oil | As needed | For greasing the loaf pan |
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Apple Cinnamon Bread
Ready to bring the scent of cinnamon and apples into your kitchen? Let’s walk through every step to make this cozy, sweet, quick bread from scratch. Each phase is simple, but when layered together, it creates a loaf that’s tender, flavorful, and full of fall goodness.
Let’s get started!
Step 1: Prep the Apple
The star of this bread is the fresh apple, and how you prep it matters. We want soft, juicy chunks that melt into the bread without disappearing completely.
Here’s what to do:
- Choose your apple: The recipe uses 1 large apple. Granny Smith is an excellent choice if you like a bit of tartness, while Honeycrisp and Golden Delicious offer natural sweetness and moisture.
- Core the apple: Place your apple on a cutting board and center your apple corer over it. Press down firmly to remove the core. If you don’t have a corer, a knife will work just fine, just be sure to remove the entire core and seeds.
- Peel the apple: Using a paring knife or vegetable peeler, carefully peel off the skin. Keep your fingers safely away from the blade, safety first!
- Dice the apple: Slice the apple into medium-sized chunks, about the size of a blueberry. You want them big enough to hold their shape when baked, but not so big that they sink or stay crunchy.
- Toss with lemon juice: Transfer the diced apple to a small bowl and add 1 teaspoon of fresh lemon juice. Stir gently to coat. This keeps the apples from turning brown and adds a slight tang to balance the sweetness of the bread.
📝 Pro Tip: You can prep your apple in advance, just keep it covered so it doesn’t dry out before you add it to the batter.
Step 2: Make the Cinnamon Sugar Mix
This is the secret ingredient that gives the bread its signature cozy swirl, a blend of cinnamon and brown sugar that melts into the center and crisps up on top.
Here’s how to make it:
- In a small mixing bowl, add:
- ½ cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- Stir the two together until they’re completely blended. You want every spoonful to be balanced in flavor.
This cinnamon sugar mixture will be added in two layers in the middle of the batter and on top, giving the bread a spiced warmth that’s irresistible.
🔥 Flavor Boost: Want an extra kick? Add a pinch of nutmeg or a dash of apple pie spice to the mix.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
Next up, it’s time to whisk together the ingredients that give structure to your bread. These classic dry baking staples create a sturdy base while allowing the moist ingredients to shine.
Here’s what you need:
In a medium bowl, whisk together:
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1½ teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon table salt
Whisk until the ingredients are fully incorporated. No lumps, no pockets of baking powder, just a smooth, even mixture.
You can sift the dry ingredients if you prefer a finer crumb, but whisking does the trick perfectly for this recipe.
✅ Tip: Measuring your flour correctly is key. Scoop with a spoon into your measuring cup, then level with a knife. Don’t scoop directly from the bag, or you might end up with too much flour.
Step 4: Whisk the Wet Ingredients
Now let’s build the flavor and moisture. These wet ingredients make this bread soft, rich, and subtly sweet.
In a large bowl, add the following:
- ½ cup applesauce – this adds moisture and natural sweetness without fat.
- 2 extra-large eggs, room temperature – for structure and lift.
- ⅔ cup granulated sugar – sweetens the bread.
- 1½ teaspoons pure vanilla extract – for that warm, cozy aroma.
- ½ cup apple juice, room temperature – another layer of apple flavor and moisture.
Whisk everything together until the mixture is completely smooth and uniform. You’ll notice it has a light, silky consistency and a fragrant aroma that’s the vanilla and apple juice working their magic.
💡 Room temperature eggs blend more easily and help the batter rise evenly, so don’t skip this step!
Step 5: Combine Wet & Dry Ingredients
Time to bring the wet and dry together to form your batter. This step is essential for texture, so take it slowly and steadily.
Here’s how:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in batches.
- Whisk after each addition just until combined.
- Continue until all the flour mixture is incorporated and no dry streaks remain.
The batter will be thick, silky, and slightly glossy, perfect for holding the diced apples and baking evenly.
⚠️ Don’t overmix! Overworking the batter can lead to a tough loaf. Stir just until everything is combined and smooth.
At this point, your batter should smell amazing, with hints of cinnamon, apple, and vanilla all coming together in harmony.
Step 6: Layer the Batter Like a Pro
This is where the real fun begins. Instead of simply mixing everything, we’re going to layer the components for a better flavor and texture experience.
Prepare your loaf pan first:
- Use a standard 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- Spray generously with baking spray (or lightly grease and dust with flour).
- This ensures your bread won’t stick and releases beautifully.
Now, let’s layer:
- Pour half the batter into the greased pan and smooth it out evenly with a spatula.
- Add half of the diced apples, spreading them out across the batter layer.
- Sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mix evenly over the apples.
- Pour in the remaining batter and gently spread to cover the filling.
- Top with the rest of the diced apples, press them slightly into the batter.
- Finish with the remaining cinnamon sugar mix on top.
This layering method ensures that every bite has texture, sweetness, and that glorious cinnamon-sugar flavor throughout.
🍞 Pro Tip: Give the pan a little shake to even everything out before baking.
Step 7: Bake It!
You’re almost there, just a quick bake in the oven, and your home will smell like a fall wonderland.
Baking Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) before you begin layering.
- Place the loaf pan on the center rack of the oven.
- Bake for 50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs.
You’ll start smelling the sweet aroma of apples and cinnamon about halfway through. It’s the kind of scent that brings everyone into the kitchen.
🕒 Tip: If the top starts browning too quickly but the inside isn’t done, loosely cover the loaf with foil for the last 10–15 minutes of baking.
Cooling the Bread
Once the loaf is baked to golden perfection, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Then carefully transfer it to a cooling rack.
Cooling allows the structure to firm up and makes slicing much easier. Resist the temptation to cut it too soon, we promise it’s worth the wait!
🔪 Use a serrated knife to slice once it’s thoroughly cooled. This prevents crumbling and gives you nice, clean slices.
Serving Suggestions: How to Enjoy Your Apple Cinnamon Bread
So your kitchen smells amazing, your loaf is cooled and sliced, now what? Let’s talk about all the delicious ways to serve and enjoy your fresh-baked apple cinnamon bread.
This bread is incredibly versatile, so whether you’re going for cozy comfort or an elegant presentation, there’s no wrong way to enjoy it.
1. Enjoy It Warm from the Oven
The first slice, still slightly warm with the cinnamon sugar crackling on top, is pure bliss. Enjoy it as-is or slather with a pat of butter that melts right in.
2. Pair It with a Hot Beverage
This bread practically begs to be served with a hot drink. Try:
- Hot apple cider
- Spiced chai
- Cinnamon latte
- English breakfast tea
- Classic drip coffee with cream
The warm spices in the bread complement cozy beverages beautifully.
3. Serve It as a Fall Brunch Star
Slice and serve your apple cinnamon bread with:
- Fresh fruit (like pear or fig slices)
- Yogurt and granola
- Scrambled eggs and sausage
It makes the perfect balance of sweet and savory on a brunch board.
4. Turn It into Dessert
Want to dress it up? Warm a slice and top with:
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream
- A drizzle of caramel sauce
- A dollop of whipped cream
It becomes an easy fall dessert you can serve at family dinners or parties.
5. Wrap It Up as a Gift
This bread makes a beautiful edible gift. Wrap in parchment or cellophane, tie with rustic twine, and add a handwritten tag. Perfect for:
- Teachers
- Neighbors
- Coworkers
- Friends and family
During the holidays, it’s a thoughtful, delicious way to show love.
Tips for Apple Cinnamon Bread Success
Want to take your apple cinnamon bread from good to unforgettable? Follow these helpful tips straight from the baking process:
1. Dice the Apples Evenly
Medium-sized chunks work best; too small and they disappear, too large and they sink. Try to keep them uniform for even baking and a consistent bite throughout the loaf.
2. Use Room Temperature Ingredients
This helps everything mix more smoothly and ensures your bread bakes evenly. Take your eggs and apple juice out of the fridge 30 minutes before baking.
3. Don’t Overmix the Batter
It’s tempting to keep stirring until it’s perfectly smooth, but resist! Overmixing leads to dense, chewy bread. Stir only until the dry ingredients are just incorporated.
4. Check for Doneness the Right Way
At around the 50-minute mark, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s ready. Don’t worry if the top is dark golden brown, that’s the cinnamon sugar caramelizing.
5. Let It Cool Before Slicing
We know it’s hard, but cooling is key. Cutting into hot bread can make it crumble and fall apart. Let it rest at least 30 minutes on a wire rack before slicing with a serrated knife.
Optional Add-Ins and Variations
Want to make this recipe your own? Whether you’re baking for yourself, your family, or a special occasion, try these fun twists to add even more flavor, texture, or nutrition to your apple cinnamon bread.
Here’s a handy table to help you pick your favorite add-ins and customizations:
| Ingredient / Variation | How to Use It | Flavor Impact |
| Chopped Walnuts or Pecans | Stir ½ cup into the batter or layer between the batter and cinnamon sugar | Adds crunch and nutty depth |
| Raisins or Dried Cranberries | Fold ½ cup into the batter before layering | Sweet, chewy contrast to the soft bread |
| Chopped Dates or Figs | Add ¼–½ cup for natural sweetness and texture | Rich, fruity flavor and soft texture |
| Shredded Coconut | Add ⅓ cup to the batter or sprinkle on top before baking | Adds a tropical twist and chewy bite |
| Mini Chocolate Chips | Mix in ½ cup for a sweeter, dessert-style version | Rich and indulgent with warm spice |
| Apple Pie Spice Blend | Swap out cinnamon with a spice blend (1–2 tsp) | More complex spice profile |
| Caramel Drizzle | Drizzle caramel sauce over the top after baking and cooling | Dessert-worthy finish |
| Oat Topping | Sprinkle 2 tbsp of rolled oats on top before baking | Rustic look and light crunch |
| Glaze (powdered sugar + milk) | Mix and pour over cooled loaf for a bakery-style finish | Adds sweetness and visual appeal |
| Gluten-Free Flour Blend | Substitute 1:1 with a certified gluten-free mix | Great for those with gluten sensitivity |
| Apple Cider instead of Juice | Use equal parts cider for a stronger apple taste | Boosts richness and fall flavor |
Final Thoughts: A Slice of Fall Comfort
There’s something magical about the combination of fresh apples, warm cinnamon, and the cozy scent of something baking in the oven. This apple cinnamon bread brings all of that magic together in one simple, satisfying loaf.
From the tender chunks of apple to the irresistible cinnamon sugar swirl, each slice is a taste of autumn, nostalgic, heartwarming, and homemade.
Whether you’re serving it with coffee in the morning, gifting it to a friend, or enjoying it with your family on a crisp fall day, this bread is guaranteed to be a seasonal favorite.
And the best part? It’s easy to make, packed with real ingredients, and endlessly customizable. Once you bake it, it’s bound to become a recipe you reach for year after year.
So go ahead, preheat that oven, grab your apples, and make your kitchen smell like fall.
Happy baking and much love! 🍎💛
More Cozy Apple Recipes You’ll Love
If you enjoyed this apple cinnamon bread, you’ll definitely want to try these delicious fall treats next:
🍏 Best 20-Min Apple Dump Cake Recipe for Holiday
This effortless dessert comes together in just 20 minutes of prep time. Sweet, warm, and made in a 9×13 dish, it’s the perfect fall crowd-pleaser.
🥧 The Best Apple Galette Recipe You’ll Ever Try
Rustic, flaky, and beautifully simple, this apple galette is the no-fuss answer to classic apple pie, and it’s made with the easiest apple filling.
🍩 Delicious Apple Fritter Recipe for Gen Z Bakers
These baked apple fritters are sweet, comforting, and packed with apple chunks, ideal for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy snack.
