Few things say cozy comfort like a thick slice of Apple Streusel Bread, still warm from the oven. With its moist crumb, buttery cinnamon swirl, and that irresistible crumble topping, this loaf is a slice of heaven with every bite. Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon treat with coffee, this bread delivers the nostalgic flavor of homemade apple pie baked into a soft, tender loaf.

Perfect for fall, holiday brunches, or any time you crave something sweet and spiced, this quick bread recipe is easy to whip up and even easier to love. The combination of tart apples, cinnamon sugar, and a sweet vanilla glaze creates a balance of flavor that tastes both indulgent and comforting.

Why You’ll Love This Apple Streusel Bread

Loaded with Fall Flavors: Warm cinnamon and apple flavor in every layer.
Simple Yet Impressive: No fancy equipment or skills needed.
Versatile Delight: Great for breakfast, brunch, dessert, or gifting.
Freezer Friendly: Make ahead and store for busy weeks or holidays.

What Kind of Apples Should I Use?

Firm, slightly tart apples work best in baking. Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Pink Lady are all great choices because they hold their shape and balance the sweetness of the streusel. Avoid soft varieties like Red Delicious, which tend to turn mushy during baking.

Ingredients for the Apple Streusel Bread

To create this beautifully layered loaf, each ingredient plays an essential role:

All-Purpose Flour: Provides the structure for the bread.
Granulated Sugar: Sweetens both the batter and the streusel topping.
Brown Sugar: Adds a molasses depth to the streusel and cinnamon swirl.
Ground Cinnamon: Infuses warm spice throughout the bread.
Baking Powder: Helps the bread rise and become fluffy.
Salt: Enhances the overall flavor.
Eggs: Binds the ingredients and adds moisture.
Milk: Loosens the batter and adds richness.
Vegetable Oil: Keeps the bread moist and tender.
Vanilla Extract: Adds depth of flavor.
Apples: Finely chopped, they add sweetness and texture.
Powdered Sugar: Used for the glaze.
Milk or Cream (for glaze): Creates a smooth drizzle on top.

How To Make the Apple Streusel Bread

Step 1: Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl and Streusel

In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon for the swirl. In another, combine flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and butter until crumbly to make the streusel.

Step 2: Mix the Batter

Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt in a large bowl. In another bowl, combine eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla. Gradually mix wet ingredients into the dry until just combined. Fold in the chopped apples.

Step 3: Assemble the Loaf

Pour half the batter into a greased loaf pan. Sprinkle with the cinnamon sugar swirl. Add the remaining batter and top generously with the streusel.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Step 5: Glaze and Serve

Whisk powdered sugar with a splash of milk or cream until it reaches drizzle consistency. Drizzle over the cooled loaf.

How to Serve and Store Apple Streusel Bread

This loaf serves 8 to 10 generous slices, making it ideal for family gatherings or a week of breakfasts. Serve it warm with a pat of butter or cooled with a cup of tea or coffee.

To store, wrap tightly in plastic wrap or keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the loaf (unglazed) for up to 3 months and reheat slices as needed.