Warm, cozy, and rich with the flavors of fall, this Harvest Spice Bread is like autumn in every bite. With grated apples, warm cinnamon, and earthy nutmeg, each slice is moist and tender with just the right amount of crunch from chopped pecans. Whether you’re curled up with a mug of tea or need a sweet companion for your morning coffee, this bread brings comfort and nostalgia to the table.

Perfectly sweetened and deeply spiced, it balances softness with a hearty texture that holds together beautifully. This recipe is also an ideal way to use up those last apples of the season or to bring a rustic, homemade treat to a weekend brunch or holiday table.

Why You’ll Love This Harvest Spice Bread

Moist and Flavorful: Fresh apple and a hint of brown sugar keep every bite rich and soft.
Cozy Spices: Cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves create that familiar warm spice profile.
No-Fuss Preparation: No mixer needed, just two bowls and a whisk.
Versatile Treat: Serve it for breakfast, dessert, or a snack with butter or cream cheese.
Freezer-Friendly: Make ahead and store a loaf for later.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Baking this Harvest Spice Bread is all about ease and warmth. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing Bowls (Large & Medium): You’ll need two bowls to separate dry and wet ingredients initially. Helps avoid overmixing.
Whisk & Spatula: A whisk for combining your wet mix and a spatula to gently fold in the dry ingredients.
Box Grater: To shred fresh apples. This adds texture and natural sweetness to the bread.
9×5-inch Loaf Pan: The classic size ensures an even bake and golden crust.
Parchment Paper or Non-Stick Spray: To prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Wire Rack: For cooling your bread thoroughly so it doesn’t get soggy.

These simple tools make the process seamless, keeping your prep clean and the final loaf perfectly textured.

Ingredients for the Harvest Spice Bread

All-purpose flour: Forms the base of the bread and gives it structure.
Baking soda: Acts as the leavening agent for a light rise.
Salt: Balances and enhances the sweetness and spice.
Cinnamon, nutmeg, and ground cloves: Bring warmth and that nostalgic fall flavor.
Eggs: Bind everything together and provide moisture.
Brown sugar & granulated sugar: A combination gives depth and a gentle caramel undertone.
Neutral oil (like canola or vegetable): Keeps the bread moist.
Vanilla extract: Adds complexity and enhances the spices.
Apples (grated): The star ingredient—adds moisture, flavor, and natural sweetness.
Chopped pecans (optional): Bring in texture and a nutty crunch.

How To Make the Harvest Spice Bread

Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves until evenly combined.

Step 2: Prepare the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, then add in the brown sugar, granulated sugar, oil, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth and fully blended.

Step 3: Add the Apples

Fold the grated apples into the wet mixture. Their juices will loosen the batter and add natural moisture.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Slowly add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients using a spatula. Stir gently just until incorporated. Don’t overmix or the bread may turn dense.

Step 5: Add Pecans (Optional)

If using, fold in the chopped pecans to evenly distribute throughout the batter.

Step 6: Pour and Bake

Pour the batter into a greased or parchment-lined 9×5-inch loaf pan. Smooth the top. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Serving and Storing This Cozy Loaf

Serve Harvest Spice Bread slightly warm with a smear of butter, cream cheese, or even apple butter for an extra hit of fall flavor. It pairs beautifully with coffee, hot cider, or chai tea.

To store, wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap or place in an airtight container. It stays moist for up to 4 days at room temperature. For longer storage, freeze individual slices and thaw as needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this bread gluten-free?

You can substitute a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Just ensure it contains xanthan gum for structure.

Can I use a different type of nut?

Absolutely! Walnuts work beautifully in this recipe and offer a slightly more bitter crunch.

What are the best apples for this bread?

Firm, slightly tart apples like Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Fuji work best to balance the sweetness.

Can I skip the nuts?

Yes, the nuts are completely optional. The bread will still be moist and flavorful without them.

Can I turn this into muffins?

Yes—divide the batter into a greased or lined muffin tin and bake at 350°F for about 18-22 minutes.

Want More Bread Ideas with a Twist?

If this Harvest Spice Bread has you craving more comforting bakes, try these reader favorites:

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add nuts or swap in pears? Did you try it with a glaze?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other bake smarter.

➡️ For even more seasonal bakes and homey treats, visit my Pinterest board: Kitchen By Kate