Apple Streusel Bread

Freshly baked Apple Streusel Bread with a golden brown topping

Why Make This Apple Streusel Bread

Apple Streusel Bread is a delightful treat that combines the warm flavors of cinnamon and apples with a crunchy and sweet streusel topping. This bread is perfect for breakfast, a cozy afternoon snack, or even as a dessert. The aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your kitchen is simply irresistible. Not only is it deliciously flavorful, but it’s also packed with the goodness of apples, making it a pleasant and slightly healthier option than many sweets. With its moist texture and sweet, crunchy topping, this homemade bread will quickly become a beloved favorite in your household. Plus, it’s straightforward to make, meaning you can whip it up even on the busiest of days.

How to Make Apple Streusel Bread

Making Apple Streusel Bread is a straightforward process that requires common baking ingredients. The combination of tender apples, the warmth of cinnamon, and the crunchy streusel topping will ensure that each slice is a delightful experience. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting, you’ll find these steps easy to follow.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 and 1/2 cups finely chopped apples
  • 1/3 cup brown sugar (for swirl)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for swirl)
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for streusel)
  • 1/3 cup brown sugar (for streusel)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for streusel)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (for streusel)
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
  • 1–2 tablespoons milk or cream (for glaze)

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together 2 cups of flour, 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
  3. In another bowl, beat 2 large eggs, 1/2 cup of milk, 1/2 cup of vegetable oil, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth.
  4. Mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined. Gently fold in 1 and 1/2 cups of finely chopped apples.
  5. In a small bowl, combine 1/3 cup brown sugar and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon for the swirl.
  6. In another bowl, mix 1/2 cup flour, 1/3 cup brown sugar, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and 1/4 cup softened butter to create the streusel until crumbly.
  7. Pour half of the batter into the loaf pan, sprinkle the swirl mixture over it, then add the remaining batter. Top with the streusel.
  8. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center. Let it cool for 10 minutes in the pan.
  9. While the bread cools, mix 1/2 cup of powdered sugar with 1 to 2 tablespoons of milk or cream for the glaze. Drizzle this glaze over the cooled bread before serving.

Nutritional Information

Per serving (1 slice, assuming 12 servings total):

  • Calories: 230
  • Total Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 37g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 18g
  • Protein: 3g

How to Serve Apple Streusel Bread

Apple Streusel Bread is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving options. Enjoy it warm, drizzled with glaze for a sweet treat, or toasted with a pat of butter for breakfast. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. For a special occasion, serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Garnish with extra chopped apples or a sprinkle of cinnamon for an attractive presentation.

How to Store Apple Streusel Bread

To keep your Apple Streusel Bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze the bread for up to 3 months. Just be sure to slice it beforehand, so you can easily take out individual pieces as needed.

Expert Tips for Perfect Apple Streusel Bread

  • Use firm apples, like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, for the best flavor and texture.
  • Make sure not to overmix the batter as it can lead to tough bread.
  • Let the bread cool completely before slicing to avoid a crumbly texture.
  • For a bit of extra flavor, add chopped nuts to the streusel topping or mix some into the batter.
  • If you want a spicier bread, you can increase the amount of cinnamon or add nutmeg.

Delicious Variations

  • Nutty Apple Streusel Bread: Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a crunchy texture.
  • Caramel Apple Streusel Bread: Drizzle caramel sauce over the top before baking for added sweetness.
  • Gluten-Free Version: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I use other fruits instead of apples?
    Yes! Pears or even ripe bananas can work great as substitutes for apples, just make sure to adjust the sugar level if the fruit is sweeter.

  2. Is it necessary to glaze the bread?
    The glaze adds a nice touch of sweetness but is not necessary. You can enjoy the bread plain or with a sprinkle of powdered sugar instead.

  3. Can I make this bread ahead of time?
    Absolutely! You can bake it a day or two ahead of time. Just store it properly to keep it fresh, and reheat slightly in the oven or microwave before serving.

Conclusion

Apple Streusel Bread is a comforting, delicious recipe that captures the essence of fall with its warm spices and sweet flavors. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family breakfast or a treat for guests. Give this easy recipe a try, and enjoy the delightful combination of soft bread, tender apples, and a crunchy topping. Please share your baking experience with us, and let us know how you personalized your Apple Streusel Bread! Happy baking!

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