Apple Bread (Easy Apple Loaf Cake)

Preheat oven to 325°F and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan. Position the oven rack in the lower third.
Shred the apple using a box grater and set aside.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar with a hand mixer until light and fluffy.
Add the eggs and vanilla extract, then mix until smooth.
Add dry ingredients to wet and stir until a thick, crumbly batter forms. Do not overmix.
Fold in the shredded apple, buttermilk, and chopped nuts (if using). Stir just until combined.
Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan. Tent with foil after 35 minutes.
Bake for 50–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs.
Cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice with a serrated bread knife.