If you’re craving the nostalgic comfort of a classic dessert in a new, handheld form, this Homestyle Apple Pie Bread Recipe is about to become your new favorite go-to. Imagine the warm spices of cinnamon and nutmeg swirling through a moist, tender bread packed with juicy chunks of apples and a satisfying crunch from nuts. This bread brings all the flavors of a traditional apple pie right to your kitchen in a quick bread that’s perfect for breakfast, afternoon snacks, or even a cozy dessert. The ease of mixing it up and popping it in the oven makes it irresistible, especially when the aroma itself feels like a cozy hug.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its simple, yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients, each playing a vital role to build the flavor, texture, and perfect color of this homestyle treat. Each ingredient enhances the bread’s unique apple pie essence while keeping preparation straightforward so you can enjoy the baking process as much as the eating.
- All-purpose flour: The sturdy base that gives the bread its soft, tender crumb.
- Baking powder and baking soda: Together, they provide the lift needed for that light, airy texture.
- Salt: A pinch elevates all the natural flavors without overpowering them.
- Cinnamon and nutmeg: The quintessential spices that give the bread its warm, cozy aroma and taste.
- Unsalted butter (softened): Adds richness and keeps the bread moist with a delicate buttery note.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the bread naturally and aids with the tender crumb.
- Eggs: Bind everything together and contribute to the bread’s structure.
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt: Adds a gentle tang and extra moisture for softness.
- Vanilla extract: Brings out the depth of the spices and balances the tartness of apples.
- Peeled and finely chopped apples: The star ingredient delivering juicy sweetness and texture.
- Chopped walnuts or pecans (optional): Add a lovely crunch and nutty dimension to the bread.
- Cinnamon sugar topping: A sweet-spicy crunch that caramelizes on top, creating a perfect finishing touch.
How to Make Homestyle Apple Pie Bread Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Mix Dry Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and preparing your loaf pan with butter and flour or parchment paper to prevent sticking. In a medium bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mixing these dry ingredients first ensures that the spices are evenly distributed throughout the bread, giving every slice its perfect apple pie flavor.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
Using a large bowl, beat together your softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color. This step is key because it incorporates air into the batter, which helps create that soft, tender crumb we all love in a quick bread.
Step 3: Incorporate Eggs, Sour Cream, and Vanilla
Add the eggs one at a time to your butter-sugar mixture, beating well after each addition to keep the mixture smooth and uniform. Stir in the sour cream (or Greek yogurt) and vanilla extract. These moist ingredients add richness and a subtle tang that perfectly balances the sweetness of the apples and sugar.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry flour mixture into your wet ingredients, mixing just until everything is combined. Avoid overmixing here because while you want a uniform batter, overworking the flour can lead to tougher bread. The batter should be just thick enough to hold the apples suspended throughout.
Step 5: Fold in Apples and Nuts
Gently fold in the finely chopped apples along with the optional walnuts or pecans. The apples provide moist pockets bursting with flavor and a slight tartness, while the nuts add a delightful crunch that contrasts nicely with the soft bread.
Step 6: Prepare for Baking and Add Topping
Pour your batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top evenly for a beautiful loaf shape. In a small bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar and cinnamon to make the cinnamon sugar topping, then sprinkle it evenly over the batter—it will create a beautifully crisp, sweet crust as it bakes.
Step 7: Bake and Cool
Bake your Homestyle Apple Pie Bread Recipe for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once done, let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes to set, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial in allowing the bread to firm up so slicing doesn’t tear it apart and the flavors settle perfectly.
How to Serve Homestyle Apple Pie Bread Recipe
Garnishes
While this bread is delicious on its own, you can easily amp up the presentation and flavor with some creative garnishes. Try a dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of honey or maple syrup, or even a schmear of softened butter. Adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream makes it an irresistible dessert option.
Side Dishes
This bread pairs wonderfully with warm beverages such as coffee, chai tea, or hot apple cider—the perfect way to enhance the cozy spice flavors. For a more substantial meal, serve slices alongside a bowl of creamy soup or a fresh green salad to bring some balance to the sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
Beyond the classic loaf slices, consider cutting the bread into cubes to make a festive bread pudding or French toast bake. Another fun idea is serving mini slices as party finger foods or stacking toasted pieces with cream cheese and apple butter for a tasty breakfast sandwich twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your homemade loaf, keep any leftovers wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container. This will preserve moisture and freshness for up to 3 days at room temperature, making the bread just as delightful the next day.
Freezing
If you want to savor this Homestyle Apple Pie Bread Recipe later, wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, or store it in a freezer-safe bag. It freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator for best results.
Reheating
To bring your bread back to life, gently warm slices in a toaster oven or microwave. Warming helps revive that fresh-baked aroma and soft texture, especially delightful if you plan to serve it with butter or a drizzle of honey.
FAQs
Can I use other types of apples for this bread?
Absolutely! While Honeycrisp and Granny Smith apples are recommended for their balanced sweetness and tartness, feel free to experiment with your favorite varieties. Just keep in mind that softer apples may release more moisture, which could alter the texture slightly.
Is it necessary to use nuts in this recipe?
Not at all. The nuts add a lovely crunch and additional flavor, but you can leave them out if you prefer a nut-free bread or have allergies. The bread will still have that classic apple pie taste and moist texture.
Can I substitute the sour cream with something else?
Yes! Greek yogurt is a perfect substitute and will lend the same tanginess and moisture to the bread. You could also try buttermilk, although it may slightly change the consistency, so reduce any other liquids accordingly.
How do I know when the bread is fully baked?
The best way to check is with a toothpick or cake tester inserted into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the bread is done. If there’s wet batter, it needs more time in the oven.
Can I add a glaze or frosting to this bread?
Definitely! A simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk or cream cheese frosting pairs beautifully, adding an extra layer of sweetness that complements the spicy apple flavor. Drizzle or spread it as you like after the bread has cooled completely.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about this Homestyle Apple Pie Bread Recipe that makes it a standout in any season—comforting, versatile, and downright delicious. Whether you’re baking for a cozy morning breakfast, an afternoon treat, or a dessert that reminds you of family gatherings, this bread hits every note perfectly. I encourage you to grab your ingredients, warm up your oven, and give this recipe a try. It might just become one of your favorite homemade traditions.
Print
Homestyle Apple Pie Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 10 slices
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Homestyle Apple Pie Bread is a cozy, moist quick bread bursting with the warm flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and tart apples. Perfect for breakfast or dessert, this easy-to-make bread combines tender crumb with a crunchy cinnamon sugar topping for a delightful treat that feels like homemade comfort food.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Add-ins
- 1 1/2 cups peeled and finely chopped apples (such as Honeycrisp or Granny Smith)
- 1/3 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Cinnamon Sugar Topping
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, use a mixer to cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, ensuring a tender bread texture.
- Add Eggs and Flavorings: Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated. Then mix in the sour cream (or Greek yogurt) and vanilla extract for moisture and richness.
- Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture, stirring gently just until combined to avoid overmixing.
- Fold in Apples and Nuts: Carefully fold in the chopped apples and optional nuts, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.
- Prepare the Batter in Pan: Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula for even baking.
- Add Cinnamon Sugar Topping: In a small bowl, mix the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Sprinkle this evenly over the batter for a sweet, spiced crust.
- Bake the Bread: Bake in the preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating the bread is fully cooked.
- Cool Before Serving: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove it carefully and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.
Notes
- This bread stays moist for several days and is delicious for breakfast or dessert.
- You can double the recipe and freeze one loaf for later enjoyment.
- For extra sweetness, consider adding a simple glaze on top after baking.
