Hey y'all! If you're craving something cozy, sweet, and irresistibly fragrant, this Apple Cinnamon Loaf is your new go-to recipe. Packed with juicy apples and aromatic cinnamon, it's the perfect bake for chilly mornings, afternoon coffee breaks, or sharing with friends and family. Ready to fill your kitchen with the comforting smell of fall? Let's get cooking!

Why You'll Love This

Bursting with fresh apple chunks and warm cinnamon spice in every bite.
Quick and easy to whip up with everyday pantry ingredients.
Deliciously moist texture with a golden, slightly crunchy crust.
Works beautifully as breakfast, snack, or dessert.
Your home will smell absolutely amazing while it bakes!

Ingredients

1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon baking powder
¼ teaspoon fine salt
½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted
¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
2 large eggs
¼ cup (60ml) milk
1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced (about 1 ½ cups)
1 tablespoon brown sugar (for sprinkling)

Directions

Step 1: Prep Your Oven & Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9x5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper, letting some hang over the sides for easy removal.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk the melted butter and granulated sugar until combined. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each. Stir in milk and vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just incorporated (do not overmix). Fold in the diced apples, distributing evenly throughout the batter.

Step 5: Fill the Pan & Top

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and level the top with a spatula. Sprinkle the surface with brown sugar for a crunchy, sweet topping.

Step 6: Bake

Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Let the loaf cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then use the parchment to lift it onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

For a softer loaf, don’t overmix the batter—just fold until combined.
Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a nice flavor contrast.
The loaf can be lightly glazed with powdered sugar and milk for extra sweetness.

Variations

Nutty Apple Cinnamon Loaf: Stir ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter.
Vegan Apple Cinnamon Loaf: Substitute plant-based butter, non-dairy milk, and flax eggs.
Apple-Cranberry Loaf: Add ½ cup dried cranberries for a tart twist.

Required Equipment

9x5-inch loaf pan
Mixing bowls
Whisk and spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Parchment paper
Wire cooling rack

Storage Instructions

Store your Apple Cinnamon Loaf tightly wrapped at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 1 week or freeze slices individually for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or toast lightly before serving.

Suggested Pairings & Serving Recommendations

Enjoy a thick slice warmed up with a pat of butter for breakfast.
Pair with a cup of coffee, spiced tea, or a cold glass of milk as a snack.
Top slices with vanilla ice cream and caramel sauce for a mouthwatering dessert.

Pro Tips

Dice your apples small and evenly to ensure they bake through and distribute nicely.
Check the loaf at 50 minutes and tent loosely with foil if browning too quickly.
Always let the loaf cool before slicing for the cleanest cuts and best texture.

FAQ

Can I make this loaf gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute your favorite 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the all-purpose flour.

What are the best apples to use?

Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji all work beautifully for a sweet-tart flavor and firm texture.

Can I add other spices?

Absolutely—try a pinch of cloves or ginger for an even cozier spiced loaf!

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50–60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes