Warm Cinnamon Spiced Bread

This warm cinnamon-spiced apple bread fills the kitchen with cozy aromas and soft, tender slices perfect for a comforting snack or breakfast treat. The balance of tart apples and fragrant spices makes each bite inviting and satisfying no matter the season.

I first baked this recipe on a rainy autumn afternoon and it instantly became a favorite for weekend breakfasts and holiday gatherings

Ingredients List

• Two cups all-purpose flour: provides a sturdy but tender crumb, choose unbleached for best flavor
• One teaspoon baking soda: for gentle rise without overpowering fluffiness
• Half teaspoon salt: enhances all the other flavors naturally
• One teaspoon ground cinnamon: for that classic warming spice feel fresh ground is best
• Quarter teaspoon ground nutmeg: adds subtle depth freshly grated if possible
• Quarter teaspoon ground cloves: contributes aromatic intensity use sparingly
• Half cup unsalted butter: softened to room temperature for smooth creaming
• One cup granulated sugar: balances tartness and sweetness use fine sugar for easier blending
• Two large eggs: give structure and richness room temperature works best
• One teaspoon vanilla extract: for warm sweetness and aroma real vanilla always shines
• Half cup sour cream: makes the bread moist and tender with a slight tang
• Two cups finely chopped apples: Granny Smith preferred for tartness and firm texture
• Half cup chopped walnuts or pecans: optional for crunch and nuttiness pick fresh and store properly
• One tablespoon turbinado sugar: to sprinkle on top for an inviting sugary crust

Cooking Steps

Prepare The Oven and Pan:

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Lightly grease and flour a 9 by 5 inch loaf pan to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal after baking.

Mix Dry Ingredients:

Whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves in a medium bowl. This helps distribute the spices evenly throughout your bread.

Cream Butter and Sugar:

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, about three minutes. This step builds the base texture and incorporates air.

Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla:

Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to maintain a smooth batter. Stir in the vanilla extract for sweet aromatic notes.

Combine Wet and Dry:

Alternately add the dry ingredient mixture with sour cream to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Gently mix until just combined without overmixing to avoid toughness.

Fold In Apples and Nuts:

Carefully fold in the finely chopped apples and nuts until they are distributed evenly in the batter for pockets of flavor and texture in every slice.

Fill Pan and Add Topping:

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Sprinkle with turbinado sugar to create a lightly crisp and shiny topping after baking.

Bake Until Golden:

Bake for 50 to 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center of the loaf comes out clean. Baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven.

Cool Properly:

Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before removing it to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents the bread from becoming soggy and helps it set perfectly.

This recipe reminds me of cozy afternoons spent baking with family where the whole house filled with that wonderful spicy apple scent. The walnuts are my favorite part because they bring an unexpected crunch to the soft bread that everyone loves.

Best Storage Practices

Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to keep it moist. For longer storage wrap it well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil then freeze for up to three months. Before serving, thaw overnight in the refrigerator or warm gently wrapped in foil.

Ingredient Swaps

Greek yogurt can replace sour cream with a similar tang and moisture Use honey or maple syrup in place of granulated sugar for a natural sweetness variation reduce other liquids slightly Try different apple varieties such as Honeycrisp or Fuji for a milder sweetness or juicier texture Pecans or almonds work well instead of walnuts and offer a different but equally tasty crunch

Serving Pairings

Enjoy slices with a dollop of cream cheese or a smear of butter for richness Pairs beautifully with hot tea, coffee, or a cold glass of milk Serve alongside a bowl of spiced apple cider for an extra seasonal touch

This apple bread has become a favorite in my home, perfect for sharing when friends drop by or as a special weekend treat when time slows down. Nothing beats that first warm slice straight from the oven with butter melting on top.

Frequently Asked Cooking Questions

→ What type of apples work best for this bread?

Granny Smith apples are ideal due to their tartness and firm texture, which hold up well during baking and balance the sweetness.

→ Can I omit the nuts in this bread?

Yes, nuts are optional and can be left out for allergies or personal preference without affecting the overall moistness and flavor.

→ How do I achieve a crunchy topping?

Sprinkling turbinado sugar on the batter before baking creates a delightful crunchy crust that contrasts nicely with the soft crumb.

→ Why use sour cream in the mixture?

Sour cream adds moisture and tenderness to the bread, helping produce a soft, rich crumb and enhancing the overall texture.

→ How can I check if the bread is fully baked?

Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached, the bread is done baking.