Apple Pie Bread is the perfect blend of two beloved favorites: apple pie and homemade bread. This loaf is packed with the warm, cinnamon-infused flavors of a classic apple pie, but in a more convenient and portable form.
The bread itself is incredibly moist, thanks to the addition of sour cream or yogurt, which helps keep it tender even after baking.
The fresh apples provide a juicy burst of flavor, while the streusel topping adds the perfect sweet, crumbly finish. It’s the kind of bread that will fill your home with the aroma of fall, making it the ideal treat for any occasion.
The Appeal of Apple Pie Bread
What makes Apple Pie Bread stand out is its combination of familiar ingredients, all coming together in a comforting loaf. While the flavor is reminiscent of apple pie, the texture is distinctively bread-like, soft with a slight density that makes each slice satisfying.
The sweet and slightly tangy apples contrast beautifully with the cinnamon and sugar in both the batter and the streusel topping. Whether served warm with butter or at room temperature with a drizzle of caramel sauce, it’s a versatile treat that will be a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for this apple pie bread are simple, yet each one plays a crucial role in bringing the bread to life.
Flour, baking soda, and cinnamon form the base of the batter, providing structure and flavor. The butter and sugar create a rich, sweet foundation, while the eggs bind the ingredients together.
Sour cream (or yogurt) contributes to the moistness of the bread, making it soft and tender. Chopped apples are the star ingredient, giving the bread its unmistakable apple pie flavor. Finally, the streusel topping, made with butter, brown sugar, flour, and more cinnamon, adds a sweet, crumbly contrast to the soft loaf.
Step 1: Prepare Your Loaf Pan
Before you begin mixing, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×5-inch loaf pan by greasing it with butter or non-stick cooking spray. You can also line the pan with parchment paper for easier removal.
Preheating the oven ensures the bread bakes evenly and achieves the perfect golden-brown crust.
Step 2: Prepare the Streusel Topping
The streusel topping is what sets this bread apart from other quick breads. In a small bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Add the butter and mix until the mixture becomes crumbly. The streusel adds a delightful crunch and sweetness on top of the soft bread. Set this aside while you prepare the bread batter.
Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. These dry ingredients will provide the structure of your bread. The baking soda helps the bread rise, ensuring it isn’t too dense.
Cinnamon is the key spice that gives the bread its cozy, comforting aroma and flavor, while the salt balances the sweetness of the other ingredients.
Step 4: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the batter, helping to create a tender crumb. Once well combined, add the eggs, one at a time, and beat until fully incorporated. Then, stir in the vanilla extract for a hint of warmth and depth of flavor.
Step 5: Add Wet and Dry Ingredients
Now it’s time to combine the dry ingredients with the wet mixture. Add the flour mixture to the butter and sugar mixture in increments, alternating with the milk and sour cream. Start and end with the dry ingredients.
Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a tough loaf. Overmixing also risks deflating the batter, which could result in a denser texture.
Step 6: Fold in the Apples
Once the batter is mixed, it’s time to fold in the chopped apples. This step helps distribute the apples evenly throughout the batter, ensuring every bite has a burst of fresh apple flavor. The apples should be finely chopped so they cook evenly and blend well into the bread. If you’re using tart apples like Granny Smith, the slight tang will balance the sweetness of the bread beautifully.
Step 7: Prepare the Loaf Pan
Once the batter is ready, pour it into the prepared loaf pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top, ensuring the batter is evenly spread. Then, generously sprinkle the streusel topping over the batter, making sure to cover it completely. The topping will create a deliciously sweet, crumbly texture that contrasts perfectly with the soft, moist bread underneath.
Step 8: Baking the Bread
Place the loaf pan in the oven and bake for 55-65 minutes. The bread is done when it turns golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached.
If the top begins to brown too quickly, cover the loaf loosely with aluminum foil and continue baking. Don’t worry if it takes a little longer than the suggested time; ovens can vary.
Step 9: Cool the Bread
Once the bread is finished baking, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. After that, transfer the loaf to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling the bread before slicing allows it to firm up and ensures clean slices. If you’re in a rush, you can enjoy a warm slice, but be cautious not to burn yourself with the hot bread!
Step 10: Slice and Serve
Once the bread has cooled, it’s ready to slice. Cut into generous slices, and enjoy it as is or with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra indulgence.
This bread can be enjoyed at any time of day, whether it’s as a sweet breakfast treat, an afternoon snack, or even a dessert after dinner.
Step 11: Storage Tips
If you have any leftovers (though that’s unlikely!), store the apple pie bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
For longer storage, you can wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap and foil and freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds or toast them lightly for a crispy finish.
Conclusion: A Perfect Fall Treat
Apple Pie Bread is the perfect treat for anyone who loves the classic flavors of apple pie but wants something easier to make and serve. Whether you’re looking for a cozy snack or a special dish to share with friends and family, this bread is sure to impress.
With its rich, cinnamon-infused batter, sweet apples, and crumbly streusel topping, it brings the best of fall baking into one simple, delicious loaf. Enjoy it fresh out of the oven or as a delicious breakfast the next morning.