Are you ready to create a warm and delicious treat? This Bakery-Style Cinnamon Sugar Apple Bread is the perfect recipe for cozy days! With simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have a sweet loaf that tastes just like it came from a bakery. Whether enjoyed warm with butter or as a delightful breakfast, this bread will please everyone. Let’s dive into the tasty details and get baking!
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
When making this bread, start with the dry ingredients. Whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. This mix is key. It helps the bread rise and gives it taste.
Wet Ingredients
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 3/4 cup buttermilk (or 3/4 cup milk + 1 tablespoon lemon juice)
Next, gather your wet ingredients. Cream the butter and sugar until they are light and fluffy. Then, add the eggs one by one. Mix in the vanilla. Finally, add the buttermilk slowly. The wet mix brings moisture and richness to the bread.
Add-ins and Toppings
– 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced (preferably Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for topping)
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for topping)
– Optional: Chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch
For added flavor, fold in diced apples. I love using Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. They add a sweet and tart crunch. Mix the brown sugar, cinnamon, and granulated sugar for the topping. This blend will create a sweet crust. If you like nuts, add walnuts or pecans for texture and taste.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This helps the bread bake evenly. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the following dry ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Mix them well and set this bowl aside. This mixture helps the bread rise and gives it flavor.
Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat together:
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
Use an electric mixer for 2-3 minutes. You want a creamy and light mixture. This step adds air and makes the bread fluffy.
Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add 2 large eggs, one at a time. Mix well after each egg. Then, add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. This adds sweetness and aroma to your batter.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the butter mixture. Alternate with 3/4 cup buttermilk. Start and end with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; this keeps the bread tender.
Fold in Apples
Gently fold in:
– 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced
If you like, add chopped walnuts or pecans for a nice crunch. This adds flavor and texture to the bread.
Prepare Topping
In a small bowl, mix together:
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
This topping gives the bread a sweet, crunchy crust.
Assemble the Loaf
Pour half of the batter into the loaf pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture on top. Add the rest of the batter and finish with the remaining topping. Use a knife to gently swirl the topping into the batter. This creates a pretty marbled look.
Bake
Place the loaf in your preheated oven. Bake for 60-70 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center. It should come out clean. If the top browns too fast, loosely cover it with aluminum foil.
Cool and Serve
After baking, let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice it while warm. You can add a dollop of butter on top for extra flavor. Enjoy your delicious bread!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving Bakery-Style Texture
Mixing is key to getting that soft, airy bread. Start by creaming the butter and sugar well. This adds air and lightness. When you mix in the dry ingredients, do it slowly. Alternate with the buttermilk. Always end with the flour mixture. This helps keep the texture light. Be careful not to overmix. If you mix too much, the bread can become dense. Just mix until you see no dry flour.
Choosing the Right Apples
The apples you pick matter for this recipe. I suggest using Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples. These types add a nice tartness. They hold their shape well during baking. Avoid soft apples like Red Delicious. They can turn mushy and change the bread’s texture. Fresh, firm apples give the best flavor and bite.
Customizing Flavor Profiles
You can add more flavor to your bread! Try mixing in a pinch of nutmeg or ginger. These spices pair well with cinnamon. If you want a nutty crunch, add chopped walnuts or pecans. They bring great texture and taste. For a fun twist, consider adding raisins or dried cranberries. They add sweetness and a pop of color.
Variations
Gluten-Free Version
You can make this bread gluten-free! Use a good gluten-free flour blend. Look for one with xanthan gum. This helps mimic the texture of regular flour. You can also try almond flour or coconut flour. Just mix these with a bit of tapioca flour for best results.
Vegan Option
If you want a vegan version, swap out the eggs. Use flax eggs instead. To make one flax egg, mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water. Let it sit for 5 minutes to thicken. For milk, you can use almond, soy, or oat milk. These will work great in the recipe.
Additional Flavor Add-ins
Want to add more flavor? You can mix in dried fruits like raisins or cranberries. Chocolate chips are another fun option! They add a sweet touch. You can also stir in spices like nutmeg or ginger for a warm twist. Don’t be afraid to get creative!
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
To store your leftover cinnamon sugar apple bread, you have two main options: refrigeration and room temperature. For room temperature, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or foil. This keeps it moist. Place it in a cool, dry spot. It can last for about 2-3 days this way.
If you prefer refrigeration, place the wrapped bread in the fridge. This option keeps it fresh longer but may dry it out. To enjoy its best flavor, let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving.
Freezing Instructions
Freezing is a great way to keep your bread fresh. First, let the bread cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Make sure it’s airtight. For extra protection, place the wrapped bread in a freezer bag. Label it with the date.
When you want to eat it, simply take the bread out of the freezer. Unwrap it and place it in the fridge overnight to thaw. If you need it fast, you can use the microwave in short bursts. Just be careful not to overheat it.
Shelf Life
When stored at room temperature, your bread stays fresh for about 2-3 days. If you refrigerate it, it can last up to a week. In the freezer, it can stay fresh for about 2-3 months. Remember to check for any signs of spoilage before enjoying your bread. Store it well, and savor each bite!
FAQs
Can I use different types of apples?
Yes, you can! While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are great choices, you have other options. Fuji apples add sweetness, while Jonagold offers a nice balance of flavor. Use any firm apple that holds up well in baking. Just make sure to peel, core, and dice them before adding to the batter.
How can I tell when the bread is done baking?
To check if the bread is done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, your bread is ready. If there is wet batter on the toothpick, it needs more time. The bread should be golden brown on top. If it browns too fast, cover it loosely with foil.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the batter a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge. Bake it fresh when you’re ready. If you have leftover bread, cool it down, wrap it well, and store it. You can reheat slices in a toaster or oven for a warm treat.
What can I serve with Bakery-Style Cinnamon Sugar Apple Bread?
This bread pairs well with many things! Serve it warm with butter for a tasty snack. You can also enjoy it with cream cheese or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a drink, try it with hot cider or coffee for a cozy breakfast or dessert.
You can now bake the perfect Bakery-Style Cinnamon Sugar Apple Bread. We covered all the steps you need, from mixing dry and wet ingredients to tips for flawless results. Remember, choosing the right apples and avoiding overmixing are key. You can also explore variations like gluten-free or vegan options. Don’t forget to store leftovers properly to enjoy your bread longer. With these tips, you’ll create a delicious treat everyone loves. Enjoy your baking adventure!
