Apple bread is one of those classic comfort bakes that fills your home with the warm aroma of cinnamon and apples. This recipe is quick, beginner-friendly, and made with simple pantry ingredients. Whether you enjoy it as a breakfast treat, an afternoon snack, or a cozy dessert, this moist apple bread will become a family favorite. Best of all, it’s budget-friendly and can be prepared in under an hour.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: No complicated steps—just mix, fold, and bake.
• Perfect Texture: Moist inside with a slightly crisp cinnamon-sugar topping.
• Versatile: Enjoy it warm with butter, serve as dessert with ice cream, or pack as a snack.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Makes two loaves, so it’s great for sharing or freezing.
• Seasonal Favorite: The apple flavor makes it ideal for fall gatherings, holidays, and potlucks.

Ingredients Breakdown

• Apple Pie Filling (1 can, mashed): Provides natural sweetness, moisture, and apple flavor without peeling or cooking fresh apples.
• Yellow Cake Mix: A shortcut that adds structure, sweetness, and a rich, buttery flavor.
• Eggs (4, slightly beaten): Bind the batter, add moisture, and give the bread a soft crumb.
• Self-Rising Flour (1 cup): Contains baking powder and salt, helping the bread rise evenly.
• Cinnamon (1 tablespoon): Enhances the apple flavor and adds warmth.
• Fresh Apple (1 medium, chopped): Adds texture and bursts of apple flavor throughout the bread.
• Cinnamon-Sugar Topping: Sprinkled before baking, it creates a lightly crunchy, sweet crust.

Tips and Tricks

1. Mash the Pie Filling: Breaking down the apple chunks ensures even distribution and a smooth batter.
2. Don’t Overmix: Stir just until combined to avoid dense bread.
3. Use Glass Loaf Pans: They promote even baking and help prevent over-browning.
4. Check Early: Ovens vary, so begin checking doneness at 35 minutes. A toothpick should come out clean.
5. Cool Before Slicing: Let loaves rest for at least 15 minutes before cutting to prevent crumbling.

Variations and Customizations

• Nutty Apple Bread: Add ½ cup of chopped pecans or walnuts to the batter.
• Caramel Apple Bread: Drizzle caramel sauce over each slice for extra sweetness.
• Cranberry Apple Bread: Fold in ½ cup of dried cranberries for a tart contrast.
• Healthy Twist: Replace half the cake mix with whole wheat flour and use unsweetened applesauce in place of some pie filling.
• Glazed Apple Bread: Mix powdered sugar with milk and drizzle on top after baking.

Pairing Suggestions

• Breakfast: Serve warm with butter and a hot cup of coffee.
• Snack: Pair with a glass of cold milk or spiced tea.
• Dessert: Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an indulgent treat.
• Holiday Spread: Slice and serve alongside pumpkin pie or pecan pie for Thanksgiving or Christmas.

Storage Instructions

• Room Temperature: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil; keeps for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Freezer: Wrap each loaf in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Popular Questions

Q: Can I make this bread without self-rising flour?
Yes, substitute 1 cup all-purpose flour mixed with 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder and ¼ teaspoon salt.

Q: Can I use homemade apple pie filling instead of canned?
Absolutely! Just ensure it has a similar consistency.

Q: Can I make muffins instead of loaves?
Yes, pour batter into a greased muffin tin and bake at 325°F for 20–25 minutes.

Q: What can I use instead of yellow cake mix?
White cake mix or spice cake mix both work wonderfully.