Cinnamon Apple Quick Bread with Apple Cider Glaze
As the crispness of fall fills the air, there’s nothing quite like the heartwarming aroma of freshly baked cinnamon apple quick bread wafting through your kitchen. This delightful treat combines the succulent sweetness of apples with the warm spices of cinnamon, creating a perfect balance of flavors that resonates with the essence of autumn. Topped with an irresistible apple cider glaze, this quick bread is not just a comforting snack; it’s an experience that brings family and friends together.
Ingredients and Preparation
Creating this delicious cinnamon apple quick bread begins with gathering the right ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Wet Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt or sour cream
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup finely chopped apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work beautifully)
For the Apple Cider Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 3 tablespoons apple cider
To start, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan. Combine the dry ingredients in a large mixing bowl, whisking them together to ensure an even distribution of the baking soda and spices. In a separate bowl, mix the wet ingredients: melted butter, yogurt, eggs, and vanilla. Blend these together until smooth.
Next, gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring just until combined. The key to a lovely quick bread is not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine. Finally, add the chopped apples, incorporating them into the batter.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. As the bread bakes, anticipation builds as the delightful scent of cinnamon and apples fills your home.
Crafting the Apple Cider Glaze
While your quick bread is baking, it’s time to prepare the luscious apple cider glaze. In a small bowl, mix the powdered sugar with apple cider until you achieve a smooth, pourable consistency. If the glaze is too thick, simply add a little more cider until it loosens up. This glaze not only adds a touch of sweetness but also enhances the apple flavors in the bread, creating a cohesive and delightful treat.
Once the bread has cooled for about 10 minutes in the pan, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Drizzle the glaze generously over the top, allowing it to cascade down the sides. The visual appeal of the shiny glaze on the warm, spiced bread is simply irresistible.
Enjoying the Final Product
This cinnamon apple quick bread is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. It’s perfect for breakfast alongside your morning coffee, a cozy afternoon snack, or even as a dessert topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Its moist texture, punctuated by tender apple pieces and the warmth of cinnamon, makes every bite a delicious journey into fall. Imagine gathering with loved ones on a chilly evening, sharing slices of this delightful bread while reminiscing about cherished memories. This bread doesn’t just satisfy hunger; it nourishes the soul.
Storing and Serving Suggestions
If you happen to have leftovers, storing your quick bread is easy. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing individual slices. Just make sure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, simply thaw at room temperature or pop it in the microwave for a few seconds.
This cinnamon apple quick bread with apple cider glaze is not just a recipe; it’s a tradition waiting to be created in your home. With its inviting flavors and delightful aroma, it’s sure to become a staple in your fall baking repertoire. Embrace the essence of autumn and indulge in this warm, sweet treat that celebrates one of nature’s finest gifts – the apple!
