Apple Cinnamon Streusel Loaf: A Moist, Spiced Delight with Crunchy Topping

Ingredients

For the Loaf:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup sour cream or plain yogurt
• 1 1/2 cups diced apples (peeled, about 1–2 medium apples)
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

For the Streusel Topping:

• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/3 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and cubed

Preparation

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Make the Streusel Topping

1. In a small bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
2. Add cold butter and crumble until coarse crumbs form. Set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Batter

1. Whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl.
2. Cream butter and sugar until fluffy in a large bowl.
3. Add eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla and sour cream.
4. Gradually mix in dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Fold in diced apples and cinnamon.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

1. Pour batter into prepared pan and sprinkle streusel on top.
2. Bake for 50–60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
3. Tent with foil if streusel browns too quickly.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

1. Cool in pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
2. Slice and serve plain or with optional glaze.

Optional Glaze

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1–2 tablespoons milk
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract – Mix until smooth and drizzle over loaf.

Tips for Success

• Use Fresh Apples: Granny Smith, Fuji, or Honeycrisp work best.
• Avoid Overmixing: Mix until just combined for a light texture.
• Monitor Baking Time: Check doneness at 50 minutes.

Storage

• Room Temperature: 3 days in an airtight container.
• Refrigerator: 5 days; serve at room temperature.
• Freezer: 3 months; thaw overnight.

Why This Recipe Works

This Apple Cinnamon Streusel Loaf combines moist, spiced apple bread with a crunchy cinnamon topping. The sour cream ensures tenderness, while the streusel adds irresistible texture. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert!

Conclusion

This loaf is a fall favorite, filling your kitchen with warmth and spice. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, it’s a must-try for apple lovers. Bake it today and savor every bite!