There’s something incredibly comforting about the smell of apples and cinnamon baking in the oven. This Apple Pie Filling Quick Bread is my absolute favorite way to get that cozy, comforting aroma with minimal effort. It’s a moist, tender, and flavorful quick bread that’s studded with chunks of apple and topped with a sweet cinnamon-sugar crust. The secret is a brilliant shortcut: using a box of yellow cake mix. This makes the recipe incredibly easy and foolproof.

I’ve been on a mission to find the best quick and easy fall baking recipes, and this one is at the top of my list. It’s a fantastic solution for when you’re craving that classic apple pie flavor but don’t have the time to make a full pie from scratch. It’s a no-fuss recipe that delivers a huge amount of deliciousness with minimal effort.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s a perfect blend of simplicity and flavor. The cake mix and self-rising flour create a light, tender crumb, while the mashed apple pie filling and fresh apple chunks keep the bread incredibly moist. The cinnamon-sugar topping adds a perfect crunchy texture and a warm, cinnamony flavor that complements the apples beautifully. It’s a fantastic recipe for a weeknight because it’s so easy to throw together, but it feels special enough to serve on a weekend or for a holiday brunch.

Ingredients

• 1 (21 oz) can apple pie filling, mashed
• 1 box yellow cake mix
• 4 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 1 cup self-rising flour
• 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
• 1 medium apple, chopped
• 1 tbsp sugar, for topping
• 1 tsp cinnamon, for topping

Swaps and Notes

• Apple Pie Filling: The canned apple pie filling is the key shortcut here. Mash it with a fork to break up the apple chunks, but leave some for texture.
• Cake Mix: A box of yellow cake mix is perfect for this. You can also use a box of white or spice cake mix for a different flavor profile.
• Fresh Apple: The addition of a fresh, chopped apple adds a wonderful texture and a fresh, bright flavor. I like using a firm apple like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith.
• Topping: The cinnamon-sugar topping is a must! It adds a beautiful crunchy crust that is simply irresistible.

How to Make Apple Pie Filling Quick Bread

1. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease and flour two standard loaf pans.
2. Mash the Filling: In a large bowl, mash the canned apple pie filling with a fork until the apple chunks are broken down but still have some texture.
3. Mix the Batter: Add the box of yellow cake mix, self-rising flour, and 1 tablespoon of cinnamon to the bowl with the mashed filling. Add the lightly beaten eggs and mix everything together with a spatula until just combined.
4. Add Fresh Apples: Gently fold the chopped fresh apple into the batter.
5. Pour into Pans: Pour the batter evenly into the two prepared loaf pans.
6. Add Topping and Bake: In a small bowl, mix together the sugar and cinnamon for the topping. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar topping evenly over the top of each loaf.
7. Bake: Bake for 35 to 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the bread comes out clean.
8. Cool and Serve: Let the bread cool in the pans for a few minutes before turning them out onto a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy.

Tips for Success

• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter will make the bread tough. Mix until the ingredients are just combined.
• Mash the Filling: Mashing the apple pie filling helps distribute the apple chunks throughout the bread.
• Use Fresh Apples: The addition of a fresh apple adds a wonderful texture and flavor that complements the canned filling beautifully.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This quick bread is fantastic on its own, but it’s also wonderful with a smear of butter, a drizzle of caramel sauce, or a dollop of whipped cream. It’s the perfect treat for a weekend breakfast or a holiday brunch. For a full dessert spread, you could serve it with some of my Caramel Apple Pie Cookies or these Pecan Pie Bars.

Storage and Leftover Tips

Store the quick bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. It can also be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. The bread freezes beautifully. Wrap each loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, and it will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

More Recipes You Will Love

If you’re a fan of baking and comforting desserts, you’ll want to check out these other favorites:

• For a great way to use up ripe bananas, my Chocolate Chip Banana Bread is a classic.
• If you’re already in the mood for all things fall, these Easy Pumpkin Spice Muffins are a must-try.
• If you’re a chocolate lover, these Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Brownie Bombs are the ultimate treat.

Final Thoughts

This Apple Pie Filling Quick Bread is a recipe that reminds us that a delicious homemade treat doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s a simple, delicious, and deeply satisfying bread that is perfect for any occasion. I hope this recipe becomes a new favorite in your home.

If you make this quick bread, I’d love to hear about it! What’s your go-to fall baking recipe? Let me know in the comments below.