Apple Bread with Cinnamon Pecan Crunch

Apple Bread with Cinnamon Pecan Crunch is the perfect fall treat! It’s moist, bursting with chunks of fresh apples, and topped with a deliciously crunchy cinnamon pecan topping. Enjoy a slice with coffee or tea, and let the warm spices fill your kitchen with comforting aromas!

Why You’ll Love This Apple Bread with Cinnamon Pecan Crunch

• Moist and Flavorful: Each bite is packed with juicy apples and warm cinnamon.
• Crunchy Topping: The pecan topping adds a delightful texture contrast.
• Perfect for Fall: Ideal for breakfast, snacks, or dessert on cozy days.

Ingredients for Apple Bread with Cinnamon Pecan Crunch

For the Apple Bread

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups peeled and diced apples (about 1-2 medium apples; use a sweet-tart variety like Honeycrisp or Gala)

For the Cinnamon Pecan Crunch Topping

• 1/3 cup chopped pecans
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon cold unsalted butter, diced

Tools You’ll Need

• 9×5-inch loaf pan: For baking the bread.
• Mixing bowls: To prepare the batter and topping.
• Spatula and whisk: For mixing ingredients.

How to Make Apple Bread with Cinnamon Pecan Crunch

Step 1: Prepare the Topping

1. In a small bowl, mix chopped pecans, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
2. Add the diced cold butter and use your fingers or a fork to combine until the mixture is crumbly. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Bread Batter

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. In a separate large bowl, mix melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
4. Add eggs, Greek yogurt, and vanilla extract, stirring until well combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Do not overmix.
6. Fold in the diced apples until evenly distributed.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

1. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly.
2. Sprinkle the Cinnamon Pecan Crunch topping over the batter.
3. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. If the topping starts to brown too quickly, cover loosely with foil.
4. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serving Suggestions

• Enjoy warm with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey.
• Pairs well with a cup of coffee, tea, or hot apple cider.

Tips for the Best Apple Bread with Cinnamon Pecan Crunch

• Use Firm Apples: Choose apples that hold their shape during baking, like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith.
• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can make the bread dense, so gently fold the ingredients together.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: For best results, bring eggs and yogurt to room temperature before mixing.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freeze: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and warm up before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I use walnuts instead of pecans?
A: Absolutely! Walnuts make a great substitute and add a similar crunch.

Q2: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, simply substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend designed for baking.

Q3: Can I add other spices?
A: Feel free to add a pinch of cloves or allspice for even more warming flavor.

This Apple Bread with Cinnamon Pecan Crunch is a cozy, fall-inspired treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Every bite is bursting with apple flavor and a touch of warm spice, making it impossible to resist!

Enjoy, and don’t forget to share a slice with loved ones.