Pin It Ricotta Apple Cinnamon Bread brings together creamy ricotta and chunks of juicy apple in a spiced loaf that is equally at home on your breakfast table or alongside your afternoon mug of tea. My family loves slicing into this bread while it is still just barely warm and watching the buttery cinnamon sugar crust crackle under the knife. It is a recipe I reach for often when apple season hits or when I need a cozy treat with only pantry staples.
I first discovered the magic of ricotta in quick bread when I wanted something a little different from banana bread and needed to use up extra apples in my fruit bowl. Now every autumn my kids ask when we are making the apple ricotta loaf.
Ingredients
- ricotta cheese whole milk type: The secret ingredient for ultra-moist texture and a tender crumb Go for whole milk ricotta for best richness Avoid brands with added stabilizers
- whole milk: Adds extra moisture to keep the crumb soft Use milk at room temperature for easier mixing
- unsalted butter softened: Provides rich flavor and a velvety mouthfeel Quality butter makes a difference select one with a sweet fresh cream taste
- eggs: Give structure and lift Look for large eggs at room temperature
- all-purpose flour: The backbone of the bread Choose an unbleached brand for a delicate texture
- granulated sugar: For sweetness and to help the loaf brown evenly
- baking powder and baking soda: Ensure the loaf rises tall and fluffy Check freshness for best results
- salt: Balances the sweet flavors
- ground cinnamon and nutmeg: Add aromatic warmth to every bite Always use ground cinnamon that smells bright and spicy for best flavor
- apples: Granny Smith or Honeycrisp recommended They stay firm and tangy after baking Choose firm apples with no bruises
- vanilla extract: For floral depth and sweetness Use pure vanilla for best flavor
- lemon zest optional: Offers a pop of freshness and brightness in each bite Go for organic lemons if available
- turbinado sugar and cinnamon optional: Topping creates a crunchy sweet crust Choose coarse sugar for extra sparkle
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan:
- Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit Make sure it is fully preheated for even baking Grease a standard 9 by 5 inch loaf pan and line with a parchment paper sling letting the sides overhang for easy bread removal
- Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium mixing bowl whisk together all purpose flour baking powder baking soda salt cinnamon and nutmeg Whisk thoroughly to evenly distribute the leaveners and spices so every bite is flavorful
- Cream Butter and Sugar:
- In a large bowl use an electric mixer or sturdy whisk to beat softened butter with granulated sugar Continue for about two minutes until the mixture looks pale light and fluffy This step builds structure and gives the bread a delicate crumb
- Add Eggs and Dairy:
- Beat in eggs one at a time so they fully incorporate without splitting the batter Mix in ricotta cheese milk vanilla extract and lemon zest if using Beat until everything looks smooth and creamy Do not rush this step as a well combined batter prevents dense pockets
- Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients:
- Gradually add the dry flour mixture to your wet bowl Use a spatula to fold gently just until the flour disappears Overmixing leads to tough bread
- Fold in Apples:
- Scatter diced apples over the batter and gently fold them in so they are evenly distributed Try not to press or mash to keep texture in the bread
- Prepare Topping and Fill Pan:
- Stir together turbinado sugar and cinnamon for the topping if using Sprinkle evenly over the batter in the pan for a crunchy spiced crust
- Bake:
- Place loaf pan into the preheated oven Bake for 50 to 60 minutes turning the pan once halfway through Test for doneness at 50 minutes by inserting a toothpick into the center It is done when the toothpick comes out clean and the top is deeply golden and domed
- Cool and Slice:
- Let the bread cool in the pan for at least ten minutes Lay a wire rack nearby so you can lift the bread out using the parchment edges Allow the loaf to cool fully before slicing to prevent crumbling Moist crumbs need time to set
Pin It Ricotta transforms plain quick bread into something special with an almost custardy tenderness that sets it apart from ordinary apple loaves I have vivid memories of my children helping me fold apples into the batter their hands sticky with sugar and cinnamon as we counted down the minutes for the loaf to cool
Storage Tips
Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic or foil and keep it at room temperature for up to three days For longer storage refrigerate in an airtight container for up to a week This bread also freezes well Slice it first and wrap portions individually for easy breakfast on busy days Let slices thaw at room temp or toast them gently
Ingredient Substitutions
If you do not have ricotta cottage cheese blended until smooth can work in a pinch Whole milk yogurt will give a slight tang but still offer plenty of moisture No apples Try ripe but firm pears for a subtle variation You can use light brown sugar if you are out of granulated and it will add a faint caramel note
Serving Suggestions
This bread is wonderful on its own or try spreading slices with soft butter or rich cream cheese For a sweet touch drizzle with a little honey or a dusting of powdered sugar Serve as an afternoon snack or as part of brunch with fresh fruit Add toasted nuts to the batter for crunch
Cultural And Seasonal Context
Quick breads are a proud part of American home baking tradition especially for using up extra fruit or dairy in the kitchen Apple cinnamon is a classic combination for autumn but you can make this loaf any time apples are available Add lemon zest in spring or extra spice in winter to fit the season
Pin It Once you bake Ricotta Apple Cinnamon Bread you will find yourself making it on repeat It is a cozy loaf that always turns out and brings smiles to anyone who tastes it
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Can I substitute apples with other fruits?
Yes, pears work well in place of apples for a different flavor and texture.
- → How do I store this bread to keep it fresh?
Wrap tightly and store at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze slices individually.
- → How can I make the loaf more flavorful?
Try adding lemon zest, toasted walnuts, or a spoonful of honey to enhance the taste.
- → Can I use part-skim ricotta cheese?
Part-skim ricotta can be used, but whole milk ricotta gives a richer, moister texture.
- → What type of apples are best?
Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples offer the best balance of sweetness and tartness.