Cinnamon Apple Bread – A Cozy, Lighter Slice of Fall Comfort

This Cinnamon Apple Bread is everything you want in a fall-inspired treat: tender, moist, filled with chunks of real apple, and topped with a fragrant cinnamon swirl. With just the right touch of sweetness and lightened-up ingredients, it’s perfect for breakfast, a midday snack, or a comforting dessert that feels homemade and wholesome. It’s a feel-good favorite you’ll want to make again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Warm & Comforting: Classic cinnamon-apple flavor with a soft, moist texture.
Lower in Sugar & Fat: Applesauce and fresh fruit keep it moist and light.
Easy to Make: One bowl and simple ingredients.
Perfect for Any Time of Day: Serve with coffee, tea, or pack in lunchboxes.

Ingredients

For the Bread:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup whole wheat flour (or use all-purpose for a lighter texture)
• 1½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 1½ tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ cup unsweetened applesauce
• ¼ cup light brown sugar, packed
• 2 tbsp maple syrup or honey
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup finely chopped apples (peeled if desired; any sweet variety works)

For the Cinnamon Swirl (Optional):

• 1 tbsp light brown sugar
• ½ tsp cinnamon

Instructions

1. Preheat & Prepare Pan
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flours, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.

3. Mix Wet Ingredients
Add applesauce, brown sugar, maple syrup, egg, and vanilla to the dry mixture. Stir just until combined—do not overmix.

4. Fold in Apples
Gently stir in the chopped apples.

5. Add Cinnamon Swirl (Optional)
Pour half the batter into the loaf pan. Sprinkle with the cinnamon-sugar swirl. Add the remaining batter on top.

6. Bake
Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool in pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

7. Slice & Serve
Slice into 10 pieces and enjoy warm or at room temperature.

Nutritional Information (Per Slice, Approximate)

Calories: 140
Carbohydrates: 24g
Fat: 3g
Protein: 3g
Fiber: 2g

Tips for Success

• Use Sweet Apples: Fuji, Gala, or Honeycrisp bring natural sweetness.
• Chop Apples Small: Finely chopped pieces bake more evenly and give better texture.
• Add Nuts: A tablespoon of chopped walnuts or pecans adds crunch and healthy fats.
• Freeze-Friendly: Wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 3 months.

Why This Recipe Works

With cozy spices, juicy apples, and naturally moist texture from applesauce, this bread delivers all the comfort of a traditional quick bread in a smarter, lighter way. It’s made with pantry staples, comes together in one bowl, and satisfies without being overly rich or heavy.

Cinnamon Apple Bread is a delicious way to welcome the flavors of fall—or enjoy year-round. Light, fluffy, and gently sweet, it’s the perfect wholesome treat for anyone who loves homemade baked goods that are both comforting and balanced. Serve it with coffee, tuck it in a lunchbox, or enjoy a slice as a mindful dessert—it’s a recipe that fits just right.