A cozy classic reimagined with a simple shortcut and heartwarming flavor
If you love the comforting aroma of baked apples, cinnamon, and a soft, moist crumb, this Apple Pie Bread recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. It’s the perfect blend of an old-fashioned apple pie and a sweet, tender quick bread — and the best part? You can whip it up in no time thanks to a simple yellow cake mix.
Ideal for breakfast with coffee, a midday snack, or as a sweet way to end the day, this recipe is packed with flavor, texture, and just the right touch of nostalgia. With fresh chopped apples for bite, and cinnamon sugar baked right on top, every slice is warm, fragrant, and irresistible.
class="wp-block-heading">Ingredients
- 1 can apple pie filling (mashed with a fork)
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 4 large eggs, slightly beaten
- 1 cup self-rising flour
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 medium apple, peeled, cored, and chopped
- Granulated sugar, for topping (as desired)
- Ground cinnamon, for topping (as desired)
- Butter or non-stick spray, for greasing pans
Directions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to 325°F (160°C). Allow it to preheat fully so the bread bakes evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Loaf Pans
Grease two loaf pans generously with butter or non-stick cooking spray. You can also line them with parchment paper for easier removal.
class="wp-block-heading">Step 3: Mash the Pie Filling
Open your can of apple pie filling and pour it into a bowl. Use a fork to mash the apple slices until the mixture is chunky but spreadable. This gives the bread great texture and flavor throughout.
Step 4: Chop the Fresh Apple
Peel and core a medium apple, then dice it into small pieces. This fresh apple will add a lovely bite and contrast to the sweetness of the filling.
Step 5: Lightly Beat the Eggs
In a small bowl, whisk the eggs with a fork until the yolks and whites are just combined.
Step 6: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, add the yellow cake mix, self-rising flour, and 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon. Stir until well combined.
Step 7: Add the Wet Ingredients
Pour the mashed apple pie filling and the beaten eggs into the dry mixture. Stir everything together until the batter is fully incorporated. Don’t overmix — just enough to get a smooth consistency.
Step 8: Fold in Fresh Apple
Add the chopped fresh apple to the batter and gently stir it in. This will give your bread lovely little pockets of tender apple in every slice.
Step 9: Pour into Prepared Pans
Divide the batter evenly between the two greased loaf pans. Smooth out the tops with a spatula.
Step 10: Add Cinnamon Sugar Topping
Sprinkle a light (or generous!) layer of granulated sugar and ground cinnamon over the tops of each loaf. This creates a sweet, slightly crisp topping after baking.
Step 11: Bake
Place both pans in the oven and bake for 35 to 45 minutes. The exact time may vary depending on your oven. Begin checking at 35 minutes.
Step 12: Check for Doneness
Insert a toothpick into the center of each loaf. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs (not wet batter), the bread is done.
Step 13: Let Cool
Remove the pans from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for about 10 to 15 minutes. This helps the bread firm up and makes it easier to remove from the pans.
Step 14: Slice and Serve
Once cool enough to handle, gently remove the loaves from the pans. Slice, serve warm, and enjoy the rich aroma of cinnamon, apple, and sweet cake.
Tips for the Best Apple Pie Bread
- Make it your own: Add chopped pecans, walnuts, or even a handful of raisins for extra texture and flavor.
- Use parchment: If you’re gifting or storing, lining your pans makes removal and cleanup easier.
- Serve it warm: This bread is wonderful straight from the oven or reheated with a pat of butter.
Storing and Freezing
- Store: Wrap cooled loaves in plastic wrap or foil and store at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, or place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or reheat individual slices in the microwave.
This apple pie bread is a sweet slice of comfort and a wonderful way to use pantry staples in a delicious new way. It’s perfect for holiday mornings, casual brunches, or simply when you want to make your home smell like an old-fashioned bakery.