Directions to follow
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan to ensure easy release after baking.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. This aromatic blend is the foundation of your bread.
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Crack the eggs in one at a time, making sure to beat well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract for an added depth of flavor.
- Mix in the sour cream until it blends smoothly with the other wet ingredients.
- Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring just until everything is blended together.
- Gently fold in the diced apples and optional walnuts, creating a delicious burst of flavor in every bite.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and evenly sprinkle the brown sugar over the top for a sweet, caramelized finish.
- Bake for 60-70 minutes. It’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Best ways to enjoy it
This Apple Pie Bread is versatile and can be enjoyed in many delightful ways. Serve warm, sliced, with butter or cream cheese spread on top. It pairs beautifully with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea. For a decadent touch, serve it with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream as a dessert. You could also toast individual slices for breakfast, drizzling some honey over them for extra sweetness.
How to store & freeze
To keep your Apple Pie Bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you’d like to keep it longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, storing it in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven for a warm, fresh slice.
Helpful cooking tips
- Ensure your butter is softened for easy creaming with sugar.
- Don’t overmix the batter once you add the dry ingredients; this keeps the bread fluffy.
- Experiment with different apple varieties for varied flavors and textures—Granny Smith offers tartness, while Honeycrisp adds sweetness.
- If you prefer a less sweet bread, reduce the sugar slightly; just be aware it may affect the texture.
Creative twists
This recipe is open to variations based on your taste preferences! Consider adding a cup of raisins or substituting some flour for oat flour for a heartier texture. Spice it up with some ginger or add some citrus zest for a fresh twist. For a vegan version, swap out the eggs for flax eggs and use a plant-based butter and sour cream.
Common questions
How can I make this Apple Pie Bread gluten-free?
You can substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Just ensure the blend contains xanthan gum designed for baking.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the batter a day ahead and store it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.
What other fruits can I use instead of apples?
Pears or even peaches can work wonderfully in this recipe, especially when in season. Just adjust the spices to match the flavor profile.
Is there a way to make this dish less sweet?
Yes, you can reduce the sugar amount. Alternatively, you can use unsweetened applesauce as a natural sweetener both in the batter and as an oil substitute.
