No Knead Apple Cinnamon Bread Recipe
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INGREDIENTS
- 2 cups/250 grams all-purpose flour
- 1 cup + 2 tablespoons/270 milliliters lukewarm water
- ½ teaspoon/1½ grams dry yeast
- ½ teaspoon coarse salt
- 2 tablespoons/30 milliliters olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Apple filling:
- 2 apples, diced
- 3½ tablespoons butter
- ¼ cup grams sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Topping:
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
INSTRUCTIONS
- In a bowl, mix all the dough ingredients until a sticky dough forms. Cover and let it rise in a warm place for 2 hours.
- Meanwhile, prepare the filling: place all filling ingredients in a skillet and cook over low heat for 10 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Generously flour your work surface. Stretch the dough into a rectangle with your hands. Spread the apple mixture on top, including the juices, and sprinkle with brown sugar.
- Roll the dough tightly, seal the edges, and shape it into a spiral. Place in a small, round pan lined with parchment paper. Cover and let it rise for 1 hour in a warm place.
- Bake for about 35 minutes, until golden brown. Let cool completely before slicing. Enjoy!
MY NOTES
FAQ
Best types of apples for apple cinnamon bread recipe
The type of apple you choose to make this apple cinnamon bread recipe can impact the flavor and texture of the bread. Sweet varieties like Fuji, Gala, and Honeycrisp create a more sugary filling, which caramelizes well. For a more tart, flavorful contrast, Granny Smith apples are ideal since they maintain their shape during cooking, providing a firmer bite. A combination of sweet and tart apples can also work beautifully, balancing sweetness with a bit of tang. Some people even enjoy mixing in pear or other seasonal fruits for a unique twist. Experimenting with different apples can yield distinct and delicious results.
What if I don’t have brown sugar for the topping?
If you’re out of brown sugar, you can use regular white sugar, though it won’t offer the same depth of flavor. Brown sugar’s molasses content provides a hint of caramel, so a good substitute is to mix a tablespoon of molasses into a cup of white sugar to replicate this richness. Maple sugar or coconut sugar can also work as a natural alternative, each with its own subtle flavor that complements the cinnamon and apples. Honey or agave can be used as well, though they may alter the texture slightly, so a bit less is usually recommended to avoid over-softening the topping.
How should I store the bread?
For short-term storage, keep the bread at room temperature in an airtight container or wrapped in plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out, which keeps it fresh for up to three days. If you want to store it longer, freezing is ideal. Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag to avoid freezer burn. To enjoy later, thaw the bread at room temperature, then warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This will restore the bread’s softness and flavor as if it were freshly baked.
What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise properly?
If the dough hasn’t risen, check that your yeast is still active; expired yeast may not work. Fresh yeast should foam slightly when combined with warm water (105-110°F or 40-43°C). Ensure the dough is kept in a warm, draft-free environment, as cooler temperatures slow yeast activity. If it’s cold, consider placing the bowl in a turned-off oven with the oven light on or next to a warm area. Kneading or stretching the dough slightly can sometimes activate sluggish yeast. Patience is key—allow extra time if needed, and the dough should eventually rise properly.
How to use fresh yeast in this apple cinnamon bread recipe
Fresh yeast can substitute dry yeast in most bread recipes, including this apple cinnamon bread recipe. It’s typically more perishable, but it provides a more subtle flavor. As a rule of thumb, you’ll need about three times the amount of fresh yeast as dry yeast. So, for this recipe, use 1.5 teaspoons of fresh yeast instead of 1/2 teaspoon of dry yeast. Dissolve the fresh yeast in lukewarm water to activate it before combining it with the other ingredients. Since fresh yeast is more sensitive to heat, ensure the water temperature doesn’t exceed 110°F (43°C) to avoid killing the yeast.
Can I substitute olive oil with another type of oil?
Many oils can replace olive oil, though each will affect the bread’s flavor slightly. Vegetable oil has a neutral taste, making it a great alternative. Coconut oil can add a hint of sweetness, while melted butter imparts richness and a creamier texture. Avocado oil works well for a healthy option, as it has a mild flavor and high nutritional value. Just avoid strongly flavored oils, like sesame or peanut, as they can overpower the apple-cinnamon filling. Whichever oil you choose, make sure it’s in liquid form to blend smoothly with the dough.
How to make this apple cinnamon bread recipe gluten-free
Use a high-quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that’s suitable for yeast baking, like those containing xanthan gum or guar gum for structure. Gluten-free doughs tend to be stickier, so adjust by adding a little extra flour or reducing water slightly. Allowing more time for rising can help gluten-free dough achieve better texture. You may also consider adding a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar or honey to improve elasticity. Note that gluten-free bread may not rise as much, but the taste and aroma will be just as delicious.
What size baking pan is recommended?
A small round pan, about 6 to 8 inches (15-20 cm) in diameter, works best for shaping this bread into a spiral, creating a nice, even bake. A loaf pan can also be used if you prefer a different shape, though it may require a slightly longer baking time to cook through fully. If using a larger pan, the bread may spread more, resulting in a flatter loaf. A springform pan with parchment lining is also a convenient option for easy removal after baking, allowing the bread to keep its shape.
Can I add nuts or raisins to this apple cinnamon bread recipe?
Absolutely! Adding a handful of chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans gives a delightful crunch that complements the soft bread and tender apples. Raisins or even dried cranberries can add a burst of sweetness and extra texture. Simply stir them into the apple filling after it’s cooked and cooled to avoid them becoming too soft. If using raisins, soak them briefly in warm water before adding them to the filling to keep them plump. These additions can enhance both flavor and texture, making this apple cinnamon bread recipe even more satisfying.
What can I do if the bread is undercooked after 35 minutes?
If the bread looks golden but is undercooked in the center, cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent further browning, then bake for an additional 5-10 minutes. This technique helps the center bake through without burning the crust. Another way to check doneness is by inserting a toothpick or skewer into the center—if it comes out with wet dough, it needs more time. Bread should also sound hollow when tapped on the bottom, indicating it’s fully baked. Be cautious with extra time, as overbaking can dry out the bread.
Can I prepare the dough and filling ahead of time?
You can prepare both the dough and filling in advance for added convenience. Prepare the dough, then cover it and let it rise overnight in the refrigerator. This slow rise can deepen the flavor. Bring it to room temperature before proceeding with shaping. The filling can also be made a day ahead and refrigerated, though be sure to let it cool completely before spreading it on the dough. Prepping in advance is a great way to save time and allows the flavors to meld, enhancing the taste of the final product.
How to make this apple cinnamon bread recipe vegan
A few easy swaps can make this recipe vegan. Replace the butter in the filling with vegan butter or coconut oil, both of which work well to caramelize the apples. Choose vegan-friendly sugar if needed, as some sugars are processed with animal products. Olive oil is already vegan, so no changes are needed there. These substitutions maintain the same taste and texture, making this bread an excellent plant-based option while still providing that comforting apple-cinnamon flavor.
How to prevent the dough from sticking to surface
Generously flouring your work surface and hands can prevent the dough from sticking. Lightly flour the dough itself if it’s especially sticky, but avoid adding too much, as this can alter the texture. Another tip is to use a silicone baking mat, which offers a non-stick surface for rolling out dough. Alternatively, you can lightly oil your surface instead of flouring to keep it from sticking. If your kitchen is warm or humid, you may need to use extra flour or refrigerate the dough briefly to make it easier to handle.
