For the Bread
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Apple Filling
- 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the Topping (Optional)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
Equipment Needed
Before you start, gather the following kitchen equipment:
- 9×5-inch loaf pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Peeler and corer
- Small saucepan (for the apple filling)
- Cooling rack
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Apple Filling
- Cook the Apples: In a small saucepan, combine the diced apples, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the mixture has thickened slightly. Remove from heat and let it cool while you prepare the bread batter.
2. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare Pan: Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
3. Make the Bread Batter
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix.
4. Assemble the Bread
- Layer the Batter and Apples: Pour half of the bread batter into the prepared loaf pan. Spoon half of the apple filling over the batter, then gently swirl it in with a knife or skewer. Repeat with the remaining batter and apple filling.
- Add Topping (Optional): If using, mix the sugar and cinnamon together and sprinkle it over the top of the batter. Drizzle with melted butter for a crisp, sweet crust.
5. Bake the Bread
- Bake: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a cooling rack to cool completely.
Tips for Perfect Apple Pie Bread
- Apple Variety: Use firm apples that hold their shape well during baking, such as Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Fuji.
- Mixing: Avoid overmixing the batter, as this can result in a dense loaf. Mix until just combined.
- Swirling: For a beautiful swirl effect, gently fold the apple filling into the batter rather than mixing it thoroughly.
Variations and Add-Ins
- Nuts: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the apple filling for extra crunch and flavor.
- Caramel: Drizzle caramel sauce over the top of the bread before serving for an indulgent treat.
- Spices: Experiment with additional spices like clove or allspice for a more complex flavor profile.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover apple pie bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. To thaw, leave it at room temperature or reheat in the oven for a warm, freshly-baked taste.
Pairing Suggestions
Apple Pie Bread pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or tea. It also makes a delightful addition to a brunch spread or a cozy dessert option. Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra touch of indulgence.