Apple Pie Banana Bread

This Apple Pie Banana Bread takes your classic banana bread recipe to the next level with the addition of spiced apples and a touch of cinnamon. The apples add moisture and a delicious fruitiness, while the cinnamon and nutmeg bring that warm, comforting apple pie flavor. It’s the perfect cozy treat for any time of day!

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Why You’ll Love This Banana Bread

• Apple Pie Flavors: The addition of apples and spices makes this bread taste just like apple pie.
• Moist & Tender: Bananas keep the bread incredibly moist while the apples add a nice texture.
• Perfectly Spiced: Cinnamon, nutmeg, and a hint of vanilla add a warm, comforting flavor.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and easy steps make this a quick go-to recipe.

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Ingredients for Apple Pie Banana Bread

For the Banana Bread:

• 2 large ripe bananas, mashed
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup buttermilk (or regular milk with 1 teaspoon lemon juice)
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

For the Apple Pie Filling:

• 1 large apple, peeled, cored, and diced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Pinch of salt

For the Topping (optional):

• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

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Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls
• Loaf pan (9×5 inches)
• Small skillet (for the apple pie filling)
• Whisk and spatula

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How to Make Apple Pie Banana Bread

Step 1: Prepare the Apple Pie Filling

• In a small skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
• Add the diced apple, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Stir to combine and cook for 4-5 minutes until the apples soften and begin to caramelize.
• Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly while you prepare the banana bread batter.

Step 2: Make the Banana Bread Batter

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan, or line it with parchment paper.
• In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth.
• Add the melted butter, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir to combine until everything is well incorporated.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
• Add the buttermilk (or milk with lemon juice) and stir until the batter is smooth and thick.
• Fold in the chopped nuts, if using.

Step 3: Fold in the Apple Pie Filling

• Gently fold the apple pie filling into the banana bread batter, being careful not to overmix. You want the apples to be evenly distributed throughout the batter but not mushy.

Step 4: Pour the Batter into the Loaf Pan

• Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it out evenly.
• In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture over the top of the batter to create a nice sugary crust.

Step 5: Bake the Banana Bread

• Bake in the preheated oven for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the bread comes out clean (with just a few crumbs).
• If the top begins to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil and continue baking.

Step 6: Cool and Slice

• Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
• Once cooled, slice and enjoy!

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm with a pat of butter for a comforting treat.
• Pair with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon snack.
• Try adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra indulgent dessert.

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Tips for the Best Apple Pie Banana Bread

• Use Overripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be.
• Customize the Spice: If you love warm spices, feel free to increase the cinnamon or nutmeg to suit your taste.
• Add More Fruit: For an extra burst of flavor, try adding in other fruits, such as raisins or dried cranberries.
• Avoid Overmixing: Mix the batter just until combined to ensure a soft, tender texture. Overmixing can result in dense bread.

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Storage Instructions

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container or wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerator: Keep the banana bread in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Freezer: This banana bread freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw before serving.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I make this banana bread gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

Q2: Can I make this banana bread without eggs?
You can substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg) or another egg substitute like applesauce.

Q3: Can I use different apples?
Absolutely! You can use any apple variety you like, but firmer apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best to maintain their shape during cooking.

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Conclusion: A Sweet and Spiced Twist on Classic Banana Bread

Apple Pie Banana Bread brings together two beloved desserts into one amazing loaf! The soft, moist banana bread with warm spices, sweet bananas, and caramelized apples will make this recipe a new favorite. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, as a snack, or as dessert, this treat is sure to impress!

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Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 60 minutes
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food

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Nutritional Information (per slice)

• Calories: 220
• Protein: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 10g
• Fiber: 2g

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Enjoy this sweet, apple-infused twist on banana bread!

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