Apple Cinnamon Bread with Icing Recipe

I absolutely love my Apple Cinnamon Bread with Icing Recipe because it’s that cozy treat that feels like a warm hug every time you take a bite. The combo of tender bread, sweet cinnamon, and fresh apple chunks is just irresistible, especially when topped with a smooth, vanilla-infused icing that melts perfectly into every nook and cranny.

Whenever I’m craving something comforting but not too sweet, this bread hits the spot—whether for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or even a simple dessert. You’ll find that it’s easy enough for a weeknight bake but special enough to bring out when you want to impress guests or pamper yourself.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient here works together to create that tender, flavorful loaf we all crave. I always recommend fresh apples for the best texture, and soft butter to keep the bread moist and tender.

• Light brown sugar: Adds moisture and a subtle caramel flavor that complements the cinnamon perfectly.
• Ground cinnamon: The star spice that brings warmth and depth to this bread.
• Granulated sugar: Balances the brown sugar with some clean sweetness.
• Unsalted butter: Softened butter helps keep the bread rich and tender without being greasy.
• Eggs: Provide structure and help everything bind together nicely.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors and adds a lovely sweet aroma.
• All-purpose flour: The base that gives the bread its texture.
• Baking powder: Helps the bread rise and stay fluffy.
• Milk: Adds moisture and keeps the crumb soft.
• Apple: Peeled and finely chopped, fresh apple adds natural sweetness and juicy texture.
• Powdered sugar (for icing): Creates that sweet, smooth glaze that takes this bread to the next level.

Variations

I love switching this Apple Cinnamon Bread with Icing Recipe up by adding my own twists. A recipe becomes a personal favorite when you feel free to tweak it — so don’t hesitate to make it your own!

• Add nuts: I sometimes toss in chopped walnuts or pecans for some crunch, and my family can’t get enough of the texture contrast.
• Use different apples: For a sweeter loaf, Fuji or Honeycrisp apples work great, while Granny Smith offers that perfect tart kick.
• Make muffins: I’ve adapted this into muffins for a grab-and-go style breakfast — perfect for busy mornings!
• Spice it up: Adding a pinch of nutmeg or ground cloves brings a little extra warmth I adore during the fall season.

How to Make Apple Cinnamon Bread with Icing Recipe

Step 1: Prep your pan and cinnamon sugar

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F and grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan. Trust me, this prevents sticking and makes your life easier. Then, mix the light brown sugar and ground cinnamon in a small bowl—this simple mixture is going to infuse each layer of the bread with warm sweetness.

Step 2: Cream the butter and sugars

Grab a large mixing bowl and beat the granulated sugar with softened butter until smooth and light. I find using an electric mixer makes this step much quicker and yields a fluffier texture. Then add the eggs and vanilla extract, beating at medium speed until everything’s combined into a silky smooth batter.

Step 3: Build the batter

Now, sift together the flour and baking powder and gradually add to your wet mixture. Pour in the milk and gently mix everything until just combined—overmixing here can lead to a tougher bread, so mix with care. Then fold in half the batter into the prepared pan, creating the base layer.

Step 4: Layer with apples and cinnamon sugar

Sprinkle half of the diced apples over the batter and press them gently into the surface with the back of a spoon. Then, sprinkle half of your brown sugar-cinnamon mixture over the apples. It’s the layering that gives this bread its amazing pockets of gooey cinnamon goodness!

Step 5: Finish layering and bake

Pour the remaining batter over the apple layer, then top with the rest of the diced apples and sprinkle the last of the cinnamon sugar mixture. Pat the topping gently into the batter again. Bake your bread for about 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. I like to keep an eye on it towards the end because ovens can vary.

Step 6: Cool and drizzle the icing

After baking, cool the bread in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. For the icing, whisk powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk in a small bowl until smooth. Once the bread is fully cooled, generously drizzle the icing over the top and let it set for about 15 minutes before slicing and serving.

How to Serve Apple Cinnamon Bread with Icing Recipe

Garnishes

I love topping slices with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a sprinkle of chopped toasted pecans for an extra bit of crunch and festive flair. Sometimes I add a dollop of whipped cream or a smear of cream cheese on the side—that extra creaminess is irresistible!

Side Dishes

Pair this bread with a hot cup of coffee or chai tea—a combo that feels like a perfect autumn morning. For a brunch, I like serving it alongside scrambled eggs or a simple fruit salad to balance the sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I’ve cut the bread into small squares and served it on a pretty platter with mini jars of honey or apple butter, letting guests customize their slices. Wrapping slices individually in parchment paper also makes adorable grab-and-go treats.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I keep leftover apple cinnamon bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap at room temperature—it stays delicious for up to four days. The icing may soften, but that’s part of its charm.

Freezing

This bread freezes wonderfully! I slice it first, wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw slices overnight in the fridge or for a couple of hours at room temp.

Reheating

To bring back that fresh-baked warmth, I pop slices in the toaster oven or microwave for about 20 seconds. If you want, add a tiny pat of butter or an extra drizzle of icing before warming for an indulgent treat.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Apple Cinnamon Bread with Icing Recipe has become one of my go-to recipes whenever I want something that’s both simple and soul-satisfying. The layers of cinnamon sugar and juicy apples make each slice a delightful surprise, and that drizzle of vanilla icing really seals the deal. Give it a try—you’ll enjoy the process as much as the delicious results, and I’m pretty sure it’ll become a favorite in your kitchen too!

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