Chunky Apple Bread with Crunchy Granola Topping
A moist, spiced quick bread packed with tender apple chunks and topped with crushed granola bars for extra crunch. The combination of Greek yogurt and butter creates a perfectly tender crumb, while cinnamon and vanilla enhance the apple flavor. This homestyle loaf is ideal for breakfast, brunch, or afternoon snacking, and the granola topping sets it apart from traditional apple breads with an irresistible textural contrast.
Ingredients
- ¾ cup sugar
- ½ cup butter or margarine, softened
- 1 container (6 oz) Greek fat-free honey vanilla yogurt
- 2 eggs
- 2 cups Gold Medal all-purpose flourgluten-free flour blend1:1gluten-freegluten-free
For gluten sensitivity
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 apple, peeled, coarsely chopped (about 1 cup)
- ⅓ cup walnuts, chopped
- 1 pouch Nature Valley oats 'n honey crunchy granola bars, crushed
Instructions
- 1
Heat oven to 325°F and grease bottom only of loaf pan with shortening or cooking spray, then lightly flour
- 2
Beat sugar, butter, yogurt and eggs with electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy
- 3
Beat in flour, cinnamon, baking powder, vanilla and salt on low speed
- 4
Stir in apples and walnuts
- 5
Spoon batter into prepared pan
- 6
Sprinkle crushed granola bar evenly over top of batter, pressing lightly into batter
- 7
Bake 1 hour 5 minutes to 1 hour 10 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean
- 8
Cool 5 minutes, then loosen sides and remove from pan to cooling rack
- 9
Cool completely about 1 hour before slicing with serrated knife into 16 slices
Tips
Press the crushed granola topping lightly into the batter to prevent it from falling off during baking while maintaining the crunchy texture.
Use a serrated knife for clean slices without tearing the tender crumb or dislodging the granola topping.
Good to Know
Wrap tightly and store in refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Can be made 1 day ahead and stored covered at room temperature.
Serve at room temperature or lightly warmed. Cut with serrated knife for clean slices.
Common Mistakes
Don't overmix the batter after adding flour to avoid tough bread.
Press granola topping lightly to avoid it falling off but don't push too deep.
Substitutions
Dairy-Free Swaps
Gluten-Free Swaps
For gluten sensitivity
General Alternatives
FAQ
Can I use fresh granola instead of granola bars?
Yes, use about 1/3 cup of your favorite granola, though granola bars provide more uniform pieces and better adherence to the batter.
How long does this bread keep?
Store wrapped tightly in refrigerator for up to 1 week, or freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Can I freeze this apple bread?
Yes, wrap cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap then foil. Freeze up to 3 months. Thaw overnight at room temperature before serving.