- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup grated or finely chopped apples (about 1 medium apple)
- 1/2 cup buttermilk (or substitute with milk + 1 tsp lemon juice)
For the Apple Filling:
- 1 medium apple, peeled, cored, and diced
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
For the Crumb Topping:
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cubed
Optional Glaze:
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1–2 teaspoons milk or cream
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Prepare the Apple Filling
- In a small bowl, toss the diced apple with brown sugar and cinnamon until evenly coated. Set aside.
3. Make the Bread Batter
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk. Mix until just combined—do not overmix.
- Fold in the grated or chopped apples.
4. Assemble the Bread
- Spread half of the batter evenly into the prepared loaf pan.
- Spoon the cinnamon-sugar apple filling over the batter, spreading it out gently.
- Top with the remaining batter, spreading it evenly to cover the apple layer.
5. Make the Crumb Topping
- In a small bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon for the crumb topping.
- Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the batter.
6. Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean (some melted apple filling is okay).
- Optional: If the topping begins to brown too quickly, cover the loaf loosely with aluminum foil during the last 10–15 minutes of baking.
7. Cool and Glaze
- Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Optional: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to create a simple glaze. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bread for added sweetness.
8. Serve and Enjoy
- Slice the bread and serve warm or at room temperature.
- Enjoy every bite of this cozy, spiced, and indulgent Apple Pie Bread!
- Perfect as a standalone treat or paired with a cup of coffee or tea for a complete snack.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Apples: Choose crisp, flavorful apples like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith for the best texture and taste.
- Switch Sweeteners: Substitute granulated sugar with coconut sugar or maple syrup for a different flavor profile.
- Add Extras: Stir in chopped walnuts, pecans, or raisins for added texture and flavor.
- Store Leftovers: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat slices in the microwave or toaster oven before serving.
Why This Recipe Works
This Apple Pie Bread combines the warm, spiced flavors of apple pie with the tender texture of quick bread into a dish that’s both satisfying and indulgent. The layers of sweet cinnamon apples and buttery crumb topping add depth and richness, while the soft bread base ensures a comforting experience. Whether served as a standalone treat or customized with your favorite mix-ins, this recipe delivers big on taste and simplicity without requiring advanced baking skills.
Conclusion: A Treat Everyone Will Love
Whether you’re craving something sweet and cozy, looking for a way to elevate your baking game, or simply want to enjoy a homemade treat, this Apple Pie Bread is sure to delight. Its bold flavors, satisfying textures, and customizable options make it a standout recipe that’s as practical as it is delicious. Plus, its versatility means you can tailor it to suit any occasion.
We’d love to see your creations! Tag us in your photos or share your favorite variations—your take on this bread might just inspire others to try it too! 🍴✨