If you are searching for a cozy, comforting treat that will fill your kitchen with the most irresistible aroma, this Apple Cinnamon Pecan Bread Recipe is an absolute must-try. Imagine tender, moist bread bursting with juicy, finely chopped apples, the warm embrace of cinnamon and nutmeg, and the delightful crunch of toasted pecans in every bite. This recipe brings together simple, wholesome ingredients that create a loaf perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this Apple Cinnamon Pecan Bread Recipe is an easy way to add a sprinkle of homemade love to your day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the beautiful start to this Apple Cinnamon Pecan Bread Recipe. Each item plays a crucial role—flour sets the structure, cinnamon and nutmeg layer the warmth, apples bring moisture and freshness, and pecans add that irresistible crunchy texture.
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour: The backbone of the bread, providing structure and crumb.
- 2 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon: Offers that signature warm and sweet spice essential to the recipe.
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg: Adds a subtle depth that complements the cinnamon beautifully.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances out sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the bread rise for a perfect, tender crumb.
- 2 large eggs (room temperature): Binds everything together and adds richness.
- 3/4 cup sugar: Sweetens the bread just enough without overpowering.
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil: Keeps the bread moist and tender.
- 2 tablespoons applesauce: Adds natural sweetness and moisture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with its lovely aroma.
- 2 cups finely chopped peeled apples: The star ingredient — fresh, juicy bites throughout.
- 1 cup chopped toasted pecans: Adds a nutty crunch that contrasts beautifully with the softness of the bread.
- 1 tablespoon sugar (for sprinkling the top): Creates a sweet, slightly crunchy topping.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Sprinkled on top for extra spice and visual appeal.
How to Make Apple Cinnamon Pecan Bread Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing a loaf pan ensures that your Apple Cinnamon Pecan Bread will come out effortlessly without sticking, leaving those beautiful edges intact.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and baking powder. This mixture is the foundation of flavor and texture, so taking a moment to combine them well will help distribute the spices evenly throughout the loaf.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate large bowl, beat the eggs, sugar, vegetable oil, applesauce, and vanilla extract until the mixture looks smooth and well blended. This wet blend brings richness and moisture and creates the perfect base for the dry ingredients to join.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gently add the dry ingredient mix into the wet bowl in portions, stirring just until combined. Avoid overmixing here to keep the bread nice and tender. This is where the dough starts to come together, getting ready to envelop all those delicious chunks of apple and pecan.
Step 5: Fold in the Apples and Pecans
Now, fold in the finely chopped apples and half of the toasted pecans carefully. This step ensures each slice will have bursts of fresh apple and crunchy nutty bits, perfecting the texture and flavor that make this Apple Cinnamon Pecan Bread Recipe so special.
Step 6: Prepare the Topping and Bake
In a small bowl, mix the remaining pecans with the tablespoon of sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle this topping over the batter in the loaf pan for an inviting sweet crust. Bake for 55 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, rewarding you with a golden, fragrant loaf.
Step 7: Cool and Enjoy
Give your Apple Cinnamon Pecan Bread time to cool in the pan for 10 to 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This rest period helps the bread set so it slices beautifully and tastes just right. Then, go ahead—slice a generous piece and savor the deliciousness!
How to Serve Apple Cinnamon Pecan Bread Recipe
Garnishes
To make your serving extra special, try a light spread of butter or a drizzle of honey on each slice. A dusting of powdered sugar over the top can add a pretty, delicate sweetness that complements the cinnamon tones beautifully.
Side Dishes
This bread pairs wonderfully with a cup of hot coffee or chai tea for breakfast or afternoon tea. You can also serve it alongside cream cheese or a mild cheese platter for a more indulgent snack or brunch option.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or gatherings, slice the loaf into smaller pieces and arrange it on a wooden board with clusters of fresh fruit and nuts. You can also toast slices lightly and top them with a smear of nut butter or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an unexpected, delightful treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftover Apple Cinnamon Pecan Bread tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay fresh and moist for up to 3 days, making it a perfect make-ahead snack.
Freezing
If you want to keep this delicious bread longer, slice it and freeze the pieces individually in a single layer before transferring them to a freezer bag. It can stay frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor or texture.
Reheating
To enjoy the bread as if freshly baked, warm slices in a toaster or microwave briefly. This brings back that soft, tender crumb and makes the pecans wonderfully toasty again, perfect for a quick breakfast or tasty snack.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of apple for this recipe?
Absolutely! Crisp apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji work wonderfully. Just make sure to finely chop them so they cook evenly throughout the bread.
Do I need to toast the pecans before adding them?
Toasting the pecans enhances their flavor and gives a pleasant crunch, but if you’re short on time, you can add them raw—the bread will still be delicious.
Can I substitute the vegetable oil with butter?
Yes, melted butter can be used instead of vegetable oil for a richer flavor. Just keep the same measurement for a similar texture.
Is this Apple Cinnamon Pecan Bread Recipe suitable for freezing?
Definitely! This bread freezes beautifully, especially when sliced first, so you can enjoy a little bit anytime you like without the whole loaf spoiling.
How do I ensure the bread doesn’t turn out dry?
The key is not to overmix the batter and to bake it just until a toothpick comes out clean. Also, using applesauce and oil helps keep the loaf moist and tender.
Final Thoughts
This Apple Cinnamon Pecan Bread Recipe is one of those comforting foods that feel like a warm hug on a plate. It’s simple to make, packed with wonderful flavors and textures, and perfect for sharing with family and friends. Once you try it, I’m sure it will become a beloved staple in your baking repertoire as it is in mine. So go ahead, preheat that oven and fill your home with the cozy magic of apple, cinnamon, and pecans!
Print
Apple Cinnamon Pecan Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (about 10-12 slices)
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in the warm, comforting flavors of this Apple Cinnamon Pecan Bread, a moist and tender loaf packed with finely chopped apples and toasted pecans, gently spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg. Perfect for breakfast or as a sweet snack, this bread combines a luscious crumb with a crunchy cinnamon-sugar pecan topping.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
Wet Ingredients
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons applesauce
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Add-ins and Topping
- 2 cups finely chopped peeled apples
- 1 cup chopped toasted pecans
- 1 tablespoon sugar (for sprinkling the top)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan to ensure the bread releases easily after baking.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and baking powder until evenly combined to create the dry mixture.
- Combine the Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together, then add the vegetable oil, applesauce, and vanilla extract. Mix until the batter is smooth and homogenous.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.
- Fold in the Apples and Pecans: Carefully fold in the finely chopped peeled apples and half of the chopped toasted pecans to distribute them evenly throughout the batter.
- Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, mix the remaining chopped toasted pecans with 1 tablespoon sugar and 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon. This will be sprinkled on top of the batter for a crunchy, sweet finish.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the greased loaf pan, smooth the top, and evenly sprinkle the pecan topping mixture. Bake for 55 to 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool and Serve: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 to 15 minutes to set, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and enjoying.
Notes
- Use peeled apples to ensure the bread has a smooth texture without tough skin bits.
- To toast pecans, spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-8 minutes, stirring once, until fragrant and lightly browned.
- Room temperature eggs blend better with other ingredients and help create a tender crumb.
- Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer preservation.
- For added moisture and flavor, consider substituting half the vegetable oil with melted butter.
