There is something truly magical about the warm aroma of baked spices and fresh apples filling your kitchen, and that is exactly what you get with this Apple Cinnamon Pecan Bread Recipe. It combines tender, moist bread with the cozy flavors of cinnamon and nutmeg, the sweetness of chopped apples, and the satisfying crunch of toasted pecans. Every bite feels like a comforting hug, perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a delightful treat anytime you crave something sweet yet wholesome. This recipe is straightforward enough for a weekend project and special enough to impress your family or guests.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Apple Cinnamon Pecan Bread Recipe plays a vital role, whether it’s building the batter’s structure or layering in delicious flavors and textures. The simplicity of the components makes this bread both accessible and irresistibly tasty.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the perfect base for a tender yet sturdy bread.
- 1 tsp baking soda: Helps the bread rise beautifully with a light crumb.
- ½ tsp salt: Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
- 1 ½ tsp ground cinnamon: Brings that signature warm spice that defines this loaf.
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg: Adds depth and a subtle aromatic twist.
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened): Ensures moistness and a rich buttery taste.
- ½ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens with a clean, straightforward flavor.
- ½ cup light brown sugar (packed): Introduces a touch of molasses flavor and extra moisture.
- 2 large eggs: Provide structure and richness to the batter.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances sweetness and rounds out the spice notes.
- ½ cup sour cream: Keeps the bread moist and adds a subtle tang.
- 2 cups peeled and finely chopped apples (Honeycrisp or Granny Smith): Offer natural sweetness and juicy bursts inside the bread.
- ¾ cup chopped pecans: Provides a crunchy, nutty contrast to the soft apple bits.
How to Make Apple Cinnamon Pecan Bread Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Greasing and flouring a 9×5-inch loaf pan or lining it with parchment paper ensures your bread will release easily after baking. A proper pan setup is a simple step that saves a lot of frustration later!
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a medium bowl. This step not only evenly distributes the spices but also ensures there are no clumps in the flour, which helps your bread rise uniformly and have a perfectly balanced flavor.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream the softened butter with both granulated and brown sugars. Aim for a light and fluffy mixture—this aeration incorporates tiny air bubbles that make your bread tender and moist.
Step 4: Add Eggs, Vanilla, and Sour Cream
Beat in the eggs one at a time, allowing each to fully combine before adding the next. Then mix in the vanilla extract and sour cream until everything is smooth. The sour cream is a secret ingredient that gives this Apple Cinnamon Pecan Bread Recipe its lovely tender crumb and slight tang that complements the sweetness perfectly.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet batter and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as that could make the bread tough. Folding the ingredients gently ensures a soft and moist texture.
Step 6: Fold in Apples and Pecans
Gently fold in the finely chopped apples and the pecans. The apples burst with juicy sweetness while the pecans add a delightful crunch—this combination is the heart of the Apple Cinnamon Pecan Bread Recipe’s charm.
Step 7: Bake and Cool
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and level the top with a spatula. Bake for 55 to 65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. After baking, let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely—this resting phase lets the flavors fully develop.
How to Serve Apple Cinnamon Pecan Bread Recipe
Garnishes
A light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey on top can enhance both the look and sweetness without overpowering the bread. For extra indulgence, spread some softened butter or cream cheese—it pairs beautifully with the warm spices.
Side Dishes
This bread shines as a standalone treat but also pairs wonderfully with coffee, chai tea, or a glass of cold milk. For a more substantial breakfast or snack, serve it alongside fresh fruit, yogurt, or a mild cheese plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your Apple Cinnamon Pecan Bread Recipe into a creative dessert by toasting slices and topping them with mascarpone and a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar. Or, slice it thick and make a warm bread pudding using the leftover bread for a cozy twist the next day.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover apple cinnamon pecan bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps the bread moist and fresh, preserving those fabulous flavors with no fuss.
Freezing
This bread freezes exceptionally well! Wrap it securely in plastic wrap and then foil before placing it in the freezer. It can last up to 3 months frozen without losing quality. When you’re ready, thaw it overnight in the fridge or at room temperature.
Reheating
To enjoy the bread warm, reheat individual slices in the toaster oven or microwave for about 20 seconds. Warming brings out the apples’ juiciness and refreshes the spices, making each bite taste freshly baked again.
FAQs
Can I use other types of nuts in this Apple Cinnamon Pecan Bread Recipe?
Absolutely! Walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts can be great substitutes if you prefer or have allergies to pecans. Just keep the quantity the same for the best texture balance.
What type of apples works best for this bread?
Firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or sweet-tart Honeycrisp are ideal as they hold their shape during baking and add a lovely, fresh apple flavor without turning mushy.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend. Just ensure your blend contains xanthan gum for structure, and be mindful of slight texture differences.
Can I add a glaze or frosting?
Definitely! A simple glaze made with powdered sugar and apple cider or vanilla glaze pairs wonderfully, adding a bit of sweetness and a glossy finish that makes the bread look even more inviting.
How do I know when the bread is fully baked?
The best test is inserting a toothpick into the center of the loaf. When it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs clinging, your bread is perfectly baked and ready to cool.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a delightful, comforting treat that brings the cozy flavors of fall year-round, this Apple Cinnamon Pecan Bread Recipe is your new best friend. Warm, tender, and packed with flavor, making this loaf will fill your home with happiness and leave you eager to slice into that first piece. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it part of your tradition!
Print
Apple Cinnamon Pecan Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (about 10 slices)
- Category: Breakfast, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Apple Cinnamon Pecan Bread is a moist, flavorful quick bread perfect for breakfast or a snack. It combines the sweet and tart notes of chopped apples with warm cinnamon and nutmeg spices, enhanced by crunchy pecans for texture. Baked to golden perfection, this loaf provides a delightful balance of sweetness and spice that is delicious fresh or even better the next day.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg
Wet Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup light brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup sour cream
Add-ins
- 2 cups peeled and finely chopped apples (such as Honeycrisp or Granny Smith)
- ¾ cup chopped pecans
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent the bread from sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg until evenly combined.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, use a hand or stand mixer to cream the softened unsalted butter with both granulated and light brown sugars until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add Eggs and Flavor: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then mix in the vanilla extract and sour cream until the batter is smooth.
- Combine Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture, folding or mixing gently until just combined; avoid overmixing for a tender crumb.
- Fold in Apples and Pecans: Carefully fold the finely chopped apples and chopped pecans into the batter, distributing them evenly throughout.
- Fill and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 55 to 65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it onto a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Notes
- For best flavor, allow the bread to rest overnight as the spices and apples develop deeper flavor.
- Walnuts can be substituted for pecans if desired.
- For extra sweetness, consider adding a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and apple juice or milk.
- If using tart apples like Granny Smith, adjust sugar slightly if a sweeter loaf is preferred.
