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Warm Cinnamon Sugar Apple Loaf – A Soft Winter Slice That Feels Like a Hug
When the weather turns cold and the days grow shorter, there’s something deeply comforting about baking. The smell of apples, cinnamon, and sugar filling your kitchen is more than just delicious — it’s emotional. This Warm Cinnamon Sugar Apple Loaf is the kind of winter treat that makes everything slow down for a moment.
Soft, moist, and gently spiced, this loaf is perfect with a cup of coffee in the morning or tea in the evening. It’s not a cake, not quite bread — it lives in that magical space between the two. Cozy. Familiar. Perfect for winter.
Why This Apple Loaf Is a Winter Favorite
This loaf stands out because it balances sweetness with spice and softness with structure. The apples bring natural moisture, the cinnamon adds warmth, and the sugar crust gives a light crunch on top. It’s simple, but it feels special.
Unlike heavy desserts, this loaf feels light enough for breakfast and comforting enough for dessert. That’s why people love baking it again and again once winter hits.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need for one standard loaf:
• 2 cups (240 g) all-purpose flour
• 1½ teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon nutmeg (optional, for extra warmth)
• ½ cup (120 ml) vegetable oil or melted butter
• ¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar
• ¼ cup (50 g) brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup (120 ml) milk or buttermilk
• 2 cups (about 300 g) finely chopped apples (peeled)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Cinnamon Sugar Topping
For the signature winter crust:
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Preparing the Batter
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a loaf pan and set it aside. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
In another bowl, mix the oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Slowly add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir gently. Do not overmix — the batter should be soft and thick.
Fold in the chopped apples. They will release moisture as they bake, keeping the loaf tender and juicy.
Layering and Baking
Pour half the batter into the loaf pan. Sprinkle a little of the cinnamon sugar over it. Add the rest of the batter on top and finish with the remaining cinnamon sugar.
Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. If the top browns too quickly, loosely cover with foil.
Cooling and Serving
Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack. Slice it warm for the best texture and aroma.
This loaf is beautiful on its own, but it’s also amazing with:
• A little butter
• Cream cheese
• Or a drizzle of honey
Storage Tips
Wrap the loaf tightly and store at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 6 days or freeze slices for later enjoyment.
Final Thoughts
Warm Cinnamon Sugar Apple Loaf is more than a recipe — it’s a winter ritual. It fills your home with comfort and your table with something soft, sweet, and satisfying.
Bake it once, and it will become one of those recipes you come back to every cold season. Simple. Cozy. Perfect.