Dessert

Apple Bread with Cinnamon Pecan Crunch Recipe

BySarah Summers October 19, 2025October 19, 2025

Introduction

This Apple Bread with Cinnamon Pecan Crunch is a delightful treat that combines tender apple-studded bread with a crunchy, spiced pecan topping. It’s perfect for breakfast, snack time, or a cozy dessert with a cup of tea.

The image shows three thick slices of nut bread stacked closely on a white plate, with visible chunks of nuts embedded in the light brown, soft and crumbly texture of the bread. The edges of the bread have a darker, golden crust. At the front right side of the plate, a small piece of red apple is placed, adding a touch of fresh, smooth, and shiny contrast to the scene. The background is a white marbled texture, keeping the focus on the bread and apple piece. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 3/4 cups all purpose flour
2 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking powder
2 large eggs, room temperature
3/4 cup sugar
1/3 cup vegetable oil
2 tablespoons applesauce
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups finely chopped peeled apples
1 cup chopped toasted pecans
1 tablespoon sugar (for sprinkling the top)
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan thoroughly.
Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and baking powder until well combined.
Step 3: In a large bowl, beat the eggs with sugar, vegetable oil, applesauce, and vanilla extract until smooth and blended.
Step 4: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently just until combined. Fold in the chopped apples and half of the toasted pecans carefully.
Step 5: In a small bowl, mix the remaining pecans with 1 tablespoon sugar and 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon. Sprinkle this pecan crunch evenly over the batter in the loaf pan.
Step 6: Bake for 55 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Allow the bread to cool for 10-15 minutes before removing it from the pan.

Tips & Variations

For extra moisture, replace the applesauce with the same amount of yogurt or sour cream.
Use a mix of sweet and tart apple varieties for a more complex flavor.
Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds if preferred.
To keep the pecan topping crunchy, place it on the bread partway through baking instead of before baking.

Storage

Store the apple bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap tightly and refrigerate for up to a week. Reheat slices gently in the microwave or a low oven to restore warmth and softness.

How to Serve

Three thick slices of nut-studded banana bread are placed side by side on a white plate, showing a dense and moist texture with visible pieces of chopped nuts throughout. The top crust is slightly crumbly and light brown, contrasting with the softer, beige inside. At the front, a slice of red apple adds a fresh pop of color, resting on the white plate against the bread. The background features a clean white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen apples instead of fresh?

It’s best to use fresh apples as frozen ones can release excess moisture and make the bread soggy. If using frozen, thaw and drain well before adding.