Apple Streusel Bread

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If you’re anything like me, the smell of warm cinnamon and apples baking in the oven instantly feels like a cozy hug. This Apple Streusel Bread has become one of my absolute favorite bakes to pull together when I’m craving something sweet but not overly complicated. The combination of moist, tender apple-spiced cake and the buttery, crunchy streusel topping is simply irresistible. It’s perfect with a morning cup of coffee or as an afternoon snack when you need a pick-me-up.

I started baking this when I wanted something comforting yet easy to slice and share. What I love most about it is how it looks more involved than it really is. The swirls of cinnamon sugar through the soft bread and the golden crumb topping make it feel like something from a bakery — but I promise, it’s 100% doable in a home kitchen. Let’s dig into what makes this Apple Streusel Bread so special.

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Why You’ll Love This Apple Streusel Bread

This bread is a beautiful blend of texture and flavor — the moist crumb, sweet apple notes, warm cinnamon, and crumbly topping all come together in perfect harmony. It feels like coffee cake meets apple pie, and who wouldn’t want a slice of that? Plus, it stays moist for days, making it an ideal bake-ahead treat.

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What Kind of Apples Should I Use?

I usually go with firm, slightly tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. They hold up well while baking and balance the sweetness of the batter and streusel. You want pieces that soften but don’t turn mushy, giving every bite a nice pop of apple flavor.

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Options for Substitutions

You can easily tailor this bread to your taste or pantry. Swap out the apples for pears if that’s what you’ve got. No sour cream? Greek yogurt works just as well for moisture. Want to make it dairy-free? Use a plant-based butter and dairy-free yogurt. You can even add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the streusel for a little crunch.

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Ingredients for this Apple Streusel Bread

All-Purpose Flour – This is the base of the bread, giving it structure and a soft, cake-like texture.

Baking Powder – Helps the bread rise and gives it a light, tender crumb.

Salt – Enhances the flavor and balances the sweetness.

Ground Cinnamon – Used in both the batter and the streusel, it gives that warm, cozy spice that pairs perfectly with apples.

Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness to the bread and helps the streusel crisp up beautifully.

Brown Sugar – Adds a richer, deeper sweetness and moisture to the streusel.

Unsalted Butter – Keeps the bread moist and rich; it’s also used in the streusel for that irresistible crumble.

Eggs – Binds the batter and gives structure to the loaf.

Sour Cream – Adds moisture and a subtle tang that balances the sweet flavors.

Vanilla Extract – Deepens the overall flavor of the bread.

Chopped Apples – The star of the show! Fresh apple chunks add juiciness and bursts of fruity flavor in every bite.

All-Purpose Flour (for streusel) – Gives the crumb topping its body and crunch.

Milk or Cream (optional for glaze) – Helps thin the glaze to the perfect drizzling consistency.

Powdered Sugar (for glaze) – Adds a sweet, decorative finish.

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Step 1: Prepare the Streusel Topping

In a bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter. Mix with a fork until crumbly. Set aside while you prepare the batter. This will be the crispy, buttery crown of your bread.

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Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. This ensures the leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the flour.

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Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter with granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This incorporates air and creates a lighter texture in the final loaf.

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Step 4: Add the Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. This step ensures even mixing and helps the batter emulsify properly.

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Step 5: Add the Sour Cream

Mix in the sour cream until fully combined. This adds richness and keeps the bread moist for days.

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Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix, or the bread may turn out dense.

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Step 7: Fold in the Apples

Gently fold in the chopped apples. Distribute them evenly so each slice has that lovely apple flavor.

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Step 8: Layer and Swirl

Pour half the batter into a greased loaf pan, sprinkle a layer of cinnamon sugar (optional), then pour the remaining batter on top. Use a knife to swirl for a marbled look.

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Step 9: Add the Streusel

Sprinkle the prepared streusel mixture generously over the top of the batter. Press it lightly to help it stick.

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Step 10: Bake the Bread

Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cover loosely with foil during the last 10 minutes if the top browns too quickly.

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Step 11: Cool and Glaze

Let the bread cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Once completely cool, drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and a bit of milk or cream.

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How Long to Prepare the Apple Streusel Bread

Making this bread doesn’t take much time at all, and the results are well worth it. From start to finish, you’ll be surprised how quickly it all comes together.

Preparation Time: Chopping apples, preparing the streusel, and mixing the batter should take about 20–25 minutes. If you’re organized and have your ingredients ready, it could be even quicker.

Baking Time: The bread needs about 50–60 minutes in the oven at 350°F (175°C). Allow 10–15 minutes of cooling time before removing from the pan, plus another 20–30 minutes if you plan to add the glaze once fully cooled.

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Tips for Perfect Apple Streusel Bread

• Use room temperature ingredients to help them mix evenly and smoothly.
• Don’t overmix the batter — stir until ingredients are just combined to avoid a dense loaf.
• Make sure your apples are chopped into even, small pieces so they bake through and distribute well.
• Line your loaf pan with parchment paper or grease it thoroughly to ensure easy removal.
• Let the bread cool completely before slicing for clean, neat cuts.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Using overly juicy apples: They can release too much liquid and make the bread soggy.
• Skipping the swirl step: The cinnamon sugar swirl adds a gorgeous pattern and flavor burst — don’t miss it!
• Not checking for doneness: Every oven is different, so always test with a toothpick.
• Overbaking the streusel topping: If the top is browning too fast, cover it loosely with foil.
• Adding glaze while bread is warm: It will melt right off. Wait until it’s fully cooled.

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What to Serve With Apple Streusel Bread?

1. A Warm Cup of Coffee or Chai

The cinnamon and apple flavors make this bread the perfect companion to a cozy morning brew.

2. Vanilla Ice Cream

Turn it into dessert by warming a slice and topping it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

3. Apple Butter or Cinnamon Spread

Enhance the apple notes even further by spreading a little apple butter on top.

4. A Glass of Cold Milk

Simple and classic, milk balances out the sweetness beautifully.

5. Yogurt and Berries

For a brunch-style serving, pair a slice with a bowl of Greek yogurt and some fresh berries.

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Storage Instructions

Room Temperature: Keep the bread tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or an airtight container. It will stay fresh for 2–3 days at room temperature.

Refrigerator: For longer freshness, refrigerate the loaf for up to 5–6 days. Warm individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.

Freezer: This bread freezes beautifully. Wrap the cooled loaf (or individual slices) in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature.

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Estimated Nutrition

(Per slice, based on 10 servings)

• Calories: 320
• Total Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Cholesterol: 55mg
• Sodium: 160mg
• Carbohydrates: 46g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 26g
• Protein: 4g

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use applesauce instead of chopped apples?

You could, but the texture will change. Chopped apples give bites of fruit throughout. Applesauce would make the loaf softer and more uniform.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Be sure it includes xanthan gum for best results.

How do I know when the bread is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s ready. Avoid overbaking to keep it moist.

Can I add nuts to this recipe?

Definitely. Chopped walnuts or pecans in the streusel or folded into the batter would add a nice crunch and nutty flavor.

Does this bread need to be refrigerated?

Not necessarily. It will last a few days at room temperature, but if you want to extend its shelf life, refrigerating is a good option.

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Conclusion

Apple Streusel Bread is the kind of recipe that brings warmth and joy with every bite. It’s simple enough for beginner bakers but delivers bakery-level flavor and texture. Whether you’re making it for a cozy weekend breakfast, a brunch table centerpiece, or just a weekday treat, it’s guaranteed to satisfy. One loaf, endless smiles!

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