This cinnamon apple butter bread is soft, moist, and filled with cozy apple and spice flavors that make my kitchen smell like fall the moment it goes into the oven. I love how the combination of applesauce, apple butter, and maple syrup creates a naturally sweet loaf that feels comforting without being heavy. I often enjoy it as a simple breakfast, an afternoon snack with coffee, or a lightly sweet dessert after dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it comes together in one bowl and doesn’t require any fancy techniques. The texture stays tender for days, and the cinnamon flavor shines without overpowering the apple. I also appreciate how easy it is to adapt for different diets, since I can use plant-based milk, vegan butter, or gluten-free flour depending on what I have on hand. It’s the kind of loaf I like to bake for quiet weekends, holiday mornings, or when I want something comforting and homemade.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
½ cup unsweetened applesauce
1 cup milk (any kind)
½ cup maple syrup
¼ cup brown sugar or coconut sugar
½ cup melted butter (regular or plant-based)
⅓ cup apple butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1½ teaspoons cinnamon
1 teaspoon baking soda
2½ cups regular or gluten-free all-purpose flour
Pinch of salt
Optional toppings for serving
Soft butter
Apple butter
Maple syrup
Directions
I start by preheating the oven to 375°F and greasing a large loaf pan with oil or baking spray. In a large mixing bowl, I whisk together the applesauce, milk, maple syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, apple butter, vanilla, cinnamon, and baking soda until everything is smooth. I then stir in the flour and a pinch of salt, mixing just until a thick, even batter forms.
I pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. I bake the bread for about 45 minutes, until the center is set and a toothpick inserted into the middle comes out clean. Once it’s done, I let it cool slightly before slicing and serving it warm with butter, apple butter, or a drizzle of maple syrup.
Servings And Timing
I usually get about 16 slices from one loaf.
Prep time is about 5 minutes, and bake time is around 45 minutes, so the total time comes to roughly 50 minutes.
Variations
I like adding chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a little crunch. Sometimes I mix in a handful of raisins or diced apples for extra texture. If I want a stronger spice flavor, I add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves along with the cinnamon. For a slightly less sweet loaf, I reduce the brown sugar and let the apple butter carry more of the sweetness.
Storage/Reheating
I let the bread cool completely before storing it. I usually keep it covered at room temperature for up to two days, or in the refrigerator for up to five days if my kitchen is warm. For longer storage, I slice the loaf and freeze the pieces for up to three months. When I’m ready to eat, I reheat slices in the toaster or microwave until warm.
FAQs
Can I make this bread gluten-free?
I make this bread gluten-free by using a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, and it turns out just as moist and tender.
Can I use store-bought apple butter?
I often use store-bought apple butter, and it works perfectly. I just look for one with simple ingredients for the best flavor.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
I make this recipe vegan by using plant-based milk and dairy-free butter, and it bakes up beautifully.
Can I skip the apple butter?
I don’t recommend skipping the apple butter in this recipe, since it adds moisture and depth of flavor. If I want a loaf without it, I usually choose a different apple bread recipe instead.
How do I know when the bread is done baking?
I check the center with a toothpick. When it comes out clean and the top feels set, I know the bread is ready.
Conclusion
This cinnamon apple butter bread is one of my favorite cozy baking recipes because it’s simple, reliable, and full of warm flavor. I love how easily it fits into everyday life, whether I’m serving it for breakfast, sharing it with friends, or freezing slices for later. It’s a comforting loaf I come back to whenever I’m craving something homemade and gently sweet.
This cinnamon apple butter bread is moist, warmly spiced, and naturally sweetened with maple syrup and apple butter. It’s a one-bowl, cozy recipe perfect for breakfast, snack time, or dessert.
Ingredients
½ cup unsweetened applesauce
1 cup milk (any kind)
½ cup maple syrup
¼ cup brown sugar or coconut sugar
½ cup melted butter (regular or plant-based)
⅓ cup apple butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1½ teaspoons cinnamon
1 teaspoon baking soda
2½ cups regular or gluten-free all-purpose flour
Pinch of salt
Optional toppings: soft butter, apple butter, maple syrup
Instructions
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a large loaf pan.
In a large bowl, whisk together applesauce, milk, maple syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, apple butter, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and baking soda until smooth.
Stir in flour and a pinch of salt until a thick batter forms—do not overmix.
Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm with butter, apple butter, or maple syrup if desired.
Notes
Add chopped nuts, raisins, or diced apples for extra texture.
Enhance spice flavor with nutmeg or cloves.
Use gluten-free or vegan substitutes as needed.
Slice and freeze for up to 3 months for longer storage.
Let cool completely before storing to prevent sogginess.
