If you’ve ever wished you could enjoy the warm, nostalgic flavors of classic apple pie in an easy, sliceable loaf, Apple Pie Bread is about to become your new favorite treat. This delightful bread combines tender chunks of apples, cozy cinnamon, and a buttery crumb for a loaf that’s equally welcome at breakfast, brunch, or as a comforting dessert. With its golden crust and irresistible aroma, every bite is like a hug from autumn itself. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply want to fill your home with the scent of spiced apples, Apple Pie Bread is a recipe you’ll want to make again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

All you need are a handful of simple, everyday ingredients to make this luscious Apple Pie Bread. Each one plays its part to create that perfect balance of moistness, flavor, and texture that makes this loaf so memorable.

All-purpose flour: This forms the sturdy base of your bread, giving it a soft but structured crumb.
Baking powder: Ensures the bread rises beautifully and stays light.
Baking soda: Works alongside baking powder for just the right lift and texture.
Salt: A pinch enhances all the other flavors and keeps the sweetness in check.
Cinnamon: Brings that unmistakable warmth and classic apple pie aroma.
Nutmeg: Adds a gentle depth and subtle spice for true bakery flavor.
Unsalted butter (softened): Makes the loaf rich and tender, with that melt-in-your-mouth quality.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the bread and helps create a golden crust.
Large eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add moisture.
Vanilla extract: Infuses the loaf with a lovely, fragrant undertone.
Sour cream: The secret weapon for ultra-moist, soft bread with a slight tang.
Peeled and diced apples: Star of the show—choose crisp, tart apples for the best flavor and texture.
Chopped pecans or walnuts (optional): For extra crunch and a nutty finish (totally delicious, but skip if you prefer nut-free).
Brown sugar (for topping): Creates a sweet, caramelized crust on top.
Cinnamon (for topping): A final sprinkle for that irresistible bakery touch.

How to Make Apple Pie Bread

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. Prepping the pan first means you can move quickly once your batter is ready, ensuring the perfect rise and bake.

Step 2: Whisk the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This step evenly distributes the leaveners and spices, so you get that cozy apple pie flavor in every bite of your Apple Pie Bread.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process incorporates air, resulting in a tender, moist loaf. Take your time here—the fluffier, the better!

Step 4: Mix in Eggs, Vanilla, and Sour Cream

Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract and sour cream. The eggs help bind everything together, while the sour cream adds richness and keeps the Apple Pie Bread impossibly moist.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix—this is the key to a soft, tender crumb that practically melts in your mouth.

Step 6: Fold in Apples and Nuts

Gently fold in the diced apples and nuts (if using). The apples add pockets of juicy sweetness, while the nuts, if added, provide a delightful crunch and nutty depth.

Step 7: Add Topping and Bake

Spoon the batter into your prepared loaf pan. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon for the topping, then sprinkle it evenly over the batter. Bake for 55 to 65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy

Let your Apple Pie Bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then gently transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This little rest helps the flavors come together and makes slicing a breeze.

How to Serve Apple Pie Bread

Garnishes

A dusting of powdered sugar, a simple drizzle of vanilla glaze, or even a dollop of whipped cream can take Apple Pie Bread from everyday delicious to truly special. For a fun twist, try a scoop of vanilla ice cream on a warm slice—pure bliss!

Side Dishes

Pair your Apple Pie Bread with a creamy latte, hot apple cider, or a mug of spiced tea for the coziest snack or breakfast imaginable. It’s also wonderful alongside a fruit salad or served as part of a brunch spread with eggs and bacon.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing and toasting the bread, then slathering with cinnamon butter, or cut into cubes for a sweet breakfast “bread salad” with yogurt and berries. Mini loaves or muffins make charming gifts or lunchbox treats, and they’re just as irresistible as the classic loaf.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Apple Pie Bread tightly wrapped or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen as it sits, making each slice even more delicious the next day.

Freezing

Apple Pie Bread freezes beautifully! Wrap the loaf (or individual slices) tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, and freeze for up to two months. When you’re ready for a treat, just thaw at room temperature overnight.

Reheating

To reheat, simply warm a slice in the microwave for 10–15 seconds or pop it in a toaster oven until it’s just heated through. This brings back that fresh-baked warmth and aroma—perfect for chilly mornings.

FAQs

Can I use a different type Bread, Dessert, Snack

Absolutely! While tart, crisp apples like Granny Smith hold their shape and add a lovely tang, you can use any variety you love or have on hand. Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala are all excellent choices for Apple Pie Bread.

Is it possible to make this bread nut-free?

Yes, just leave out the nuts entirely. Apple Pie Bread is just as moist and flavorful without them, making it perfect for anyone with allergies or a preference for smooth, tender slices.

Can I make Apple Pie Bread ahead of time?

Definitely! In fact, the flavors deepen and improve after a day. Bake it the night before, let it cool completely, and wrap it tightly. It’s ready to slice and serve the next morning or afternoon.

What’s the best way to make this bread extra moist?

The sour cream in the recipe already works wonders, but be sure not to overbake. Check for doneness around the 55-minute mark and remove as soon as a toothpick comes out clean. Using fresh, juicy apples also adds extra moisture!

How can I add a glaze to the bread?

For a simple glaze, mix powdered sugar with a splash of milk or cream and a drop of vanilla extract. Drizzle it over the cooled loaf for a sweet, bakery-style finish that truly elevates your Apple Pie Bread.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a loaf that captures all the best parts of homemade apple pie in a fuss-free, sliceable form, Apple Pie Bread is your answer. I can’t wait for you to try it and share a slice (or two) with friends and family. Trust me, it’s the kind of recipe that turns ordinary days into something a little more special—happy baking!

Apple Pie Bread Recipe

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4.5 from 10 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Yield: 1 loaf (10 slices) 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This Apple Pie Bread combines the comforting flavors of classic apple pie with the ease of quick bread baking. Filled with tender diced apples, warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, and a crunchy nut topping, this moist loaf is perfect for fall breakfasts, snacks, or dessert.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons 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
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup sour cream

Add-ins and Topping

2 cups peeled and diced apples
1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (for topping)

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Instructions

Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease 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 ensuring they are evenly combined.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, which helps create a tender texture.
Add Eggs, Vanilla, and Sour Cream: Beat in the eggs one at a time to incorporate fully, then stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream until smooth and well combined.
Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined to avoid overmixing which can toughen the bread.
Fold in Apples and Nuts: Carefully fold in the diced apples and chopped nuts if using, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.
Prepare Topping and Pour Batter: In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle this mixture evenly over the batter once poured into the prepared loaf pan.
Bake the Bread: Bake the loaf in the preheated oven for 55 to 65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, indicating the bread is fully cooked.
Cool Before Serving: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely for easier slicing and better texture.

Notes

For added sweetness, drizzle a simple glaze made with powdered sugar and milk over the cooled bread.
This bread freezes well and can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.
You can substitute the nuts with your favorite or omit entirely for a nut-free version.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Category: Bread, Dessert, Snack
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American