Warm Cinnamon Spiced Apple Bread (Printable Version)

Moist cinnamon-spiced bread loaded with apple chunks and hints of vanilla, ideal for cozy mornings or snacking.

# Ingredients:

→ Core Ingredients

01 - 2 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1 cup granulated sugar
03 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
04 - 1 cup peeled and diced apples (about 2 medium apples, preferably Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
05 - 1/2 cup milk
06 - 2 large eggs
07 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
08 - 1 teaspoon baking powder
09 - 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
10 - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
11 - 1/4 teaspoon salt

→ Optional Ingredients

12 - 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
13 - 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
14 - 1/4 cup raisins

→ Substitutions

15 - Use a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a gluten-free version
16 - Substitute half the butter with unsweetened applesauce for reduced fat content

# Steps:

01 - Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for even baking and a golden crust.
02 - Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking and allow easy removal.
03 - In a medium bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
04 - In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 3 to 4 minutes.
05 - Add eggs one at a time to the creamed mixture, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract to combine.
06 - Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk. Begin and end with the dry mixture, mixing gently until just combined.
07 - Gently fold in diced apples, and blend in walnuts, pecans, nutmeg, or raisins if using, ensuring an even distribution throughout the batter.
08 - Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula for an even bake.
09 - Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
10 - Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer onto a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

# Notes:

01 - For best results, use tart apples such as Granny Smith for a robust flavor contrast.
02 - To store, keep the loaf tightly wrapped in the refrigerator for up to one week or freeze it for up to three months.