Cinnamon Apple Bread with Brown Sugar Glaze

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Cinnamon Apple Bread with Brown Sugar Glaze

History:

Fruit-studded breads date back to medieval Europe, where dried fruits and nuts were baked into dense loaves to preserve them. In American baking traditions, apple bread evolved from farmhouse-style cooking where apples were abundant. Cinnamon apple bread, especially with a glaze, became a favorite in the Midwest and South for its warm, spiced comfort—perfect with coffee or tea.

Lovers of This Bread:

  • Fall fanatics: They crave warm, spiced loaves.
  • Coffee lovers: This bread is perfect with a cup of joe.
  • Bakers at heart: Simple to make but feels indulgent.
  • Kids & adults: The moist cake and sweet glaze make it irresistible.

Ingredients:

For the Apple Bread:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp baking soda
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 ½ tsp cinnamon
  • ½ tsp nutmeg
  • ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • ¼ cup brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ½ cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
  • 1 ½ cups peeled and finely chopped apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)

Optional Add-ins:

  • ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts
  • ¼ cup raisins or dried cranberries

For the Brown Sugar Glaze:

  • ¼ cup unsalted butter
  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • 2 tbsp milk or heavy cream
  • ½ tsp vanilla extract
  • ½ to ¾ cup powdered sugar (sifted)

Instructions & Method:

Step 1: Prepare the Loaf

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
  3. In a medium bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
  4. In a large bowl, cream butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until fluffy (2–3 minutes).
  5. Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla.
  6. Mix in sour cream or Greek yogurt until smooth.
  7. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined.
  8. Fold in apples (and nuts or raisins, if using).
  9. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.

Step 2: Bake

  1. Bake for 50–60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  2. Let the bread cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

Step 3: Make the Glaze

  1. In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
  2. Stir in brown sugar and milk; bring to a gentle boil.
  3. Remove from heat, stir in vanilla, then whisk in powdered sugar until smooth.
  4. Pour the warm glaze over the cooled loaf

Benefits:

  • Apples add fiber and antioxidants.
  • Cinnamon helps regulate blood sugar and boosts brain function.
  • Homemade means no preservatives or artificial flavors.
  • Moist and satisfying, perfect for breakfast, snack, or dessert.
  • Versatile: You can freeze it, toast it, or serve it warm with ice cream!

Pro Tips:

  • Chop apples small for even distribution.
  • Let glaze set before slicing (or don’t—no judgment).
  • Want a crunchier top? Sprinkle raw sugar before baking.

Conclusion:

Cinnamon Apple Bread with Brown Sugar Glaze is more than just a loaf—it’s a cozy, comforting bite of nostalgia. Whether you’re enjoying it on a lazy Sunday morning or bringing it to a potluck, this bread steals the show. It’s a beautiful fusion of moist apple cake and sticky-sweet glaze that’s bound to be loved by all.

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