Introduction:
This Apple Cinnamon Loaf is the perfect blend of sweet, tart apples and warm cinnamon, creating a moist, flavorful cake that’s ideal for breakfast, a snack, or dessert. The comforting aroma of cinnamon and baked apples will fill your kitchen and make this loaf an instant family favorite!
⏱ Prep Time: 15 minutes
🍳 Cook Time: 60–65 minutes
⏲ Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
🍽 Servings: 8 slices
🔥 Calories per Serving: ~250 kcal (approx.)
🍏 Ingredients
For the Loaf:
- 🍏 1 large apple, peeled, cored, and diced (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 🧈 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 🍬 1 cup granulated sugar
- 🥚 2 large eggs
- 🧴 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 🥣 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 🧂 1 tsp baking powder
- 🌿 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 🧂 1/4 tsp salt
- 🥛 1/2 cup whole milk
For the Cinnamon Sugar Topping:
- 🍬 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 🌿 1 tsp ground cinnamon
📝 Instructions
- Preheat & Prepare the Pan:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Make the Batter:
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3–4 minutes.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
- Add the Apples:
- Gently fold the diced apples into the batter until evenly distributed.
- Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Topping:
- In a small bowl, combine the sugar and cinnamon for the topping. Set aside.
- Bake the Loaf:
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the top of the batter.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 60–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- If the top starts to brown too quickly, loosely cover the loaf with aluminum foil and continue baking.
- Cool & Serve:
- Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove from the pan and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Slice and enjoy!
🤩 Why You’ll Love This Apple Cinnamon Loaf:
- Perfect Balance: The sweet apples and warm cinnamon create the ultimate comfort flavor in every bite.
- Moist & Tender: The loaf stays wonderfully soft and moist, thanks to the butter and milk.
- Versatile: Enjoy it with a cup of coffee, as a dessert, or as a quick snack any time of day.
- Simple Ingredients: Made with easy-to-find ingredients, it’s a delicious treat that doesn’t require any special tools or techniques.
💡 Tips:
- Apple Variations: You can use any type of apple you prefer, though tart apples like Granny Smith provide a nice contrast to the sweet cinnamon.
- Add-ins: Consider adding chopped walnuts or raisins for extra texture and flavor.
- Make Ahead: This loaf can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
- Glaze Option: For an extra indulgent touch, drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk.
Enjoy your Apple Cinnamon Loaf—a warm, comforting treat that’s perfect for cozy mornings or any time you need a little slice of sweetness!