Calling all apple lovers, because Cinnamon Apple Bread is the perfect treat for apple season. We’ve packed it full of diced Granny Smith apples, so every bite has that tart apple flavor. But we didn’t stop there—we also swapped out the oil for applesauce to double down on that apple goodness and keep the bread irresistibly moist.

For more quick bread, be sure to check out our master quick bread recipe so you can make any flavor your heart desires.

Why Our Recipe

  • Packed with Granny Smith apples for all that apple goodness.
  • We add more apple flavor by using applesauce instead of oil to keep this bread super moist.
  • A batter so simple it’s ready for the oven in under 15 minutes.
Sliced loaf of moist cinnamon apple bread on a cutting board.

This Apple Quick Bread is super moist. Many quick bread recipes use vegetable oil to keep the loaf moist, but that adds quite a few calories and a whole lot of fat. Instead, this recipe uses applesauce for a lighter version that’s just as moist. Plus, more delicious apple flavor!

Ingredient Notes

  • Unsweetened Applesauce: This adds an extra layer of apple flavor and moisture, replacing oil or butter.
  • Eggs: Eggs provide structure. Using the grade AA large variety.
  • Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract has the best flavor, but imitation vanilla will work too.
  • Sugar: If you’re looking to reduce sugar, you could use a sugar substitute, but be aware that it might affect the texture.
  • Brown Sugar: Brown sugar adds a touch of molasses flavor and keeps the bread moist. Light or dark brown sugar can be used, but dark will give a richer flavor.
  • All-Purpose Flour: This is the base of the bread, providing structure.
  • Baking Soda: Baking soda helps the bread rise. Make sure your baking soda is fresh for the best results.
  • Salt: Flavor enhancer.
  • Ground Cinnamon: The perfect compliment to apples. For a variation, you could add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves.
  • Granny Smith Apples: These apples are ideal for baking because they hold their shape and add a tart contrast to the sweet bread. Be sure to peel, core, and dice them evenly for the best texture. If you want a sweeter taste, you could use a different variety like Honeycrisp or Fuji, but the bread will be less tart.

Unsweetened Applesauce vs. Sweetened

This recipe calls for unsweetened applesauce. If you try to use sweetened you may want to reduce the amount of additional sugar you add or your bread may end up quite sweet. Use unsweetened applesauce for best results and complete control over your bread.

Granny Smith Apples

This recipe uses green Granny Smith apples. Why? Granny Smith apples are tart which provides a great balance to the sweetness of the bread. Granny Smith apples also bake up nicely without becoming mushy which makes them a great candidate for baking inside of a bread.

When preparing your apples, start by peeling and coring them. You can do this by using a peeler corer slicer or simply peel using a knife or potato peeler and then cut the core out.  Be sure to cut up your apple pieces quite small. I hate having large chunks in my bread. I keep my pieces 1/4 of an inch or less.

Hand holding a slice of apple bread

Pan Size and Mini Loaves

This recipe is designed for two standard 9×5-inch loaf pans, but you can easily adjust it to make mini loaves if you prefer. If you’re using mini loaf pans (usually around 5.75×3 inches), the batter will yield approximately 6 mini loaves. Keep in mind that mini loaves will bake faster—check for doneness around the 45-50 minute mark by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, your mini loaves are ready! Mini loaves are perfect for gifting.

Storage Instructions

Room Temperature: Store the bread in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap for about 3 days.

Refrigeration: If you prefer to keep the bread longer, refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Keep in mind that refrigeration may slightly dry out the bread.

Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the bread. Wrap each loaf or slice tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a resealable freezer bag. The bread can be frozen for up to 3 months. To enjoy, thaw it at room temperature or warm slices in the microwave for 20-30 seconds.

More apple recipes…

Watch the video below where we will walk you through every step of the recipe with a video demonstration.