Ingredients
Scale
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 2 cups peeled and finely chopped apples
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
For the topping:
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour your loaf pan to ensure the bread releases easily after baking.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, setting the stage for a moist bread.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Incorporate the eggs one at a time, blending after each addition, then mix in the milk and vanilla for flavor depth.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg to distribute the leavening and spices evenly.
- Mix Dry with Wet Ingredients: Gradually blend the dry ingredients into the creamed mixture, ensuring everything is combined without overmixing.
- Fold in Apples and Walnuts: Gently fold in the apples and optional walnuts, distributing them throughout the batter without deflating it.
- Prepare Topping: Mix the granulated sugar and cinnamon for the topping in a small bowl and set aside.
- Pour Batter into Pan: Transfer the batter into the prepared loaf pan, then drizzle with melted butter and sprinkle with the cinnamon-sugar topping for a crispy finish.
- Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 55-60 minutes. The bread should be golden and set, with a toothpick inserted in the center coming out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature, enjoying each slice's rich, moist texture and aromatic spice.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes