There is something irresistibly comforting about the warm, spicy aroma of freshly baked apples and cinnamon filling your kitchen, and that’s exactly what you get with this Homestyle Apple Pie Bread Recipe. Imagine a moist, tender bread studded with juicy apple chunks and a buttery, crumbly streusel topping that mimics that classic apple pie experience but in a loaf form. It’s perfect for cozy mornings, afternoon snacks, or dessert, bringing the essence of homemade apple pie into a wonderfully easy-to-make bread that feels like a big, delicious hug in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Homestyle Apple Pie Bread Recipe is in its simple, familiar ingredients, each playing a key role in creating that perfect balance of flavor, texture, and warmth. From the spice mix that adds cozy autumn vibes to the fresh apples for bursts of juicy sweetness, every component works together harmoniously.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of the bread, providing structure and tenderness.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Gives the bread a nice rise and fluffy crumb.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Helps balance the acidity and aids in leavening.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds that warm, spicy aroma essential to apple pie flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Enhances the spice profile with a subtle, nutty warmth.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Highlights and balances the sweetness of the bread.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter just right.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed: Adds moisture and a rich, caramel undertone.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Brings richness and helps create a tender crumb.
- 2 large eggs: Binds ingredients while adding moisture and structure.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Deepens the flavor with a sweet, fragrant note.
- 1/2 cup buttermilk: Adds tenderness and slight tang to balance the sweetness.
- 1 1/2 cups apples, peeled, cored, and diced: Prefer Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for bright, crisp flavor.
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional): Adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor contrast.
- For the streusel topping: 1/4 cup all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed), 2 tablespoons cold unsalted butter (cubed), 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg; combined to create a buttery, crumbly texture with spice.
How to Make Homestyle Apple Pie Bread Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it nice and hot. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan well or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later—this prep step ensures your bread comes out perfectly intact and ready for slicing.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. This blend of spices and leavening agents is what gives the bread its signature texture and that unmistakable cozy apple pie aroma.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
Using a large bowl, beat together granulated sugar, brown sugar, and softened unsalted butter until the mixture is creamy and light. This step is crucial to introduce air into the batter, helping the bread rise beautifully while developing a luscious, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Then, add each egg one at a time, beating well after each addition for a smooth and cohesive batter. Stir in the vanilla extract to add that familiar sweet fragrance we love.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Now, gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter and sugar mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. This careful folding keeps the batter light and tender—mix just until combined to avoid overworking the flour which could make the bread tough.
Step 5: Fold in Apples and Nuts
Gently fold the diced apples and the optional chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter. The apples add juicy, fresh bursts of flavor, while the nuts lend a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft bread.
Step 6: Prepare Streusel Topping
In a small bowl, mix the flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg for the topping. Add the cold, cubed butter and cut it into the mixture with a pastry cutter or your fingers until it resembles coarse crumbs. This streusel topping bakes into a golden, buttery crunch that makes every slice extra special.
Step 7: Bake the Bread
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and evenly sprinkle the streusel topping across the surface. Bake for 60 to 70 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The aroma of baking apples and spices will fill your kitchen—trust me, it’s the best part!
Step 8: Cool and Slice
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes to settle. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. This resting time ensures clean slices that hold together beautifully when you cut into that tender, apple-studded crumb.
How to Serve Homestyle Apple Pie Bread Recipe
Garnishes
Serve slices with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of warm caramel sauce for an elevated touch. A smear of butter or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can also transform this bread into a delightful dessert experience.
Side Dishes
This Homestyle Apple Pie Bread Recipe pairs wonderfully with hot beverages like spiced chai tea, rich coffee, or creamy hot chocolate. It also makes a cozy breakfast alongside a bowl of yogurt and fresh fruit or a simple glass of milk for an easy, comforting treat.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive brunch, cut the bread into cubes and serve it as a bread pudding base, or layer slices with cream cheese frosting for a quick and delicious dessert. You can even toast slices lightly and top them with almond butter and honey for a wholesome snack that’s bursting with flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Stored at room temperature, it will stay fresh for 2 to 3 days. Refrigeration can extend freshness up to a week but might dry it out slightly, so make sure to bring it back to room temperature or warm it gently before serving.
Freezing
This bread freezes beautifully. Wrap it first in plastic wrap and then in a layer of foil or place it in a heavy-duty freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing its delicious flavor or texture. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheating
To reheat, slice the bread and warm it gently in a toaster oven or regular oven at a low temperature, about 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes. This brings back the fresh-baked aroma and restores a soft, tender crumb with a crisp top.
FAQs
Can I use other types of apples?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are preferred for their balance of tartness and sweetness, you can experiment with Fuji, Gala, or Pink Lady apples. Just keep in mind some varieties might make the bread a bit sweeter or softer.
Is it necessary to use buttermilk?
Buttermilk adds a subtle tang and helps keep the bread tender, but if you don’t have any on hand, you can make a quick substitute by stirring 1/2 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar into 1/2 cup of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, by swapping the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum for structure, you can enjoy a gluten-free version. Just be aware the texture might be a little different but still delicious!
What if I don’t like nuts?
No problem! The nuts are optional and can simply be left out. The bread will still have plenty of wonderful texture and flavor from the apples and streusel topping.
How do I know when the bread is done baking?
Use a toothpick or cake tester inserted into the center of the loaf—it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached. If there’s wet batter on the toothpick, bake for a few more minutes and test again.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this Homestyle Apple Pie Bread Recipe a try because it’s a little slice of comfort and joy in every loaf. It brings the classic, homey flavors we all adore in apple pie but is quick and effortless enough to whip up on any day you crave something sweet and soothing. Whether for sharing with your family or savoring with a cup of tea, this recipe will keep you coming back for just one more slice.
Print
Homestyle Apple Pie Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60-70 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (about 10-12 slices)
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Homestyle Apple Pie Bread combines the warm, comforting flavors of classic apple pie into a moist and tender quick bread. Loaded with diced apples, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a buttery streusel topping, this bread is perfect as a breakfast treat or a cozy dessert.
Ingredients
Bread Batter
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1 1/2 cups apples, peeled, cored, and diced (preferably Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Streusel Topping
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
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 flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt to ensure even distribution of leavening and spices.
- Cream Sugars and Butter: In a large bowl, beat granulated sugar, brown sugar, and softened butter until the mixture is creamy and light in color, about 3-4 minutes. This creates a light texture for the bread.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition to fully incorporate. Then stir in the vanilla extract for flavor.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined to avoid overmixing, which can toughen the bread.
- Fold in Apples and Nuts: Gently fold in the diced apples and chopped walnuts or pecans if using, ensuring even distribution without crushing the fruit.
- Prepare Streusel Topping: In a small bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Add the cold cubed butter and cut it into the mixture using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and evenly sprinkle the streusel topping over it. Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing to maintain structure and enhance flavor.
Notes
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for best flavor and texture.
- If you prefer a nut-free version, omit the walnuts or pecans.
- Ensure butter for the streusel topping is cold to achieve crumbly texture.
- Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
- For extra moisture, serve slices with a smear of butter or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
