Are you craving a warm, comforting treat that's surprisingly simple to make? Then look no further! This cinnamon apple bread machine recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights or lazy weekend mornings. Forget complicated instructions and lengthy baking times; this recipe uses the magic of your bread machine to deliver a moist, flavorful loaf packed with the deliciousness of cinnamon and apples. It's a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and healthy meals, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a delightful afternoon snack.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 medium apple (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp recommended), peeled, cored, and diced
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- Optional Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons milk or apple juice
Instructions:
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Prepare your bread machine: Make sure your bread machine pan is clean and lightly greased.
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Add the wet ingredients: Pour the warm water into the bread machine pan. Add the yeast, sugar, cinnamon, salt, eggs, and melted butter.
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Incorporate the dry ingredients: Add the flour, then sprinkle the baking soda on top.
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Add the apples and nuts (optional): Gently fold in the diced apples and chopped nuts (if using) on top of the flour mixture. Do not stir.
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Select the dough cycle: Choose the "dough" cycle on your bread machine. Let the machine knead the dough for the allotted time (usually about 15-20 minutes).
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Shape the dough: Once the dough cycle is complete, carefully remove the dough from the pan and shape it into a loaf. Lightly flour your hands to prevent sticking.
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Place the dough into a greased loaf pan: Place the shaped dough into a greased 9x5 inch loaf pan. Cover the loaf pan with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 45-60 minutes, or until doubled in size.
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Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the bread for approximately 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Cool and Glaze (optional): Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, prepare the optional glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar and milk/apple juice until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bread.
Tips for the Best Cinnamon Apple Bread:
- Use good quality apples for the best flavor. Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples hold their shape well during baking.
- Don't overmix the dough. Overmixing can result in a tough loaf of bread.
- Let the dough rise properly for the best texture.
- Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean, the bread is done.
- Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the dough for extra warmth.
- Add some zest: Incorporate the zest of one lemon or orange for a bright citrusy flavor.
- Make it a crumble top: Sprinkle a cinnamon crumble topping over the loaf before baking.
- Different nuts: Try using different nuts such as pecans, almonds, or even macadamia nuts.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary based on the specific ingredients used and portion size.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: 8-10g
- Carbohydrates: 40-45g
- Protein: 4-5g
This recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and homemade cooking projects. Enjoy this delicious and easy cinnamon apple bread!