Homemade Apple Cinnamon Swirl Loaf A Cozy Fall Favorite

Posted by My Name is Alice on



Nothing says fall in a slice quite like a freshly baked Apple Cinnamon Swirl Loaf. The warm aroma of apples, cinnamon, and brown sugar fills your kitchen as this delightful loaf bakes to perfection. With tender chunks of apples swirled into a moist, fluffy crumb and topped with a rich, old-fashioned creme glaze, this treat is perfect for chilly afternoons, family gatherings, or cozy weekends with a cup of coffee. This recipe brings all the flavors of an apple fritter donut but with the heartiness of a homemade quick bread.

Whether you bake it as a full loaf or as muffins, this versatile recipe will soon become a family favorite. Let's dive in and make this irresistible fall dessert together!

Ingredients for Apple Cinnamon Swirl Loaf

Brown Sugar-Cinnamon Mixture

  • 1/3 cup light brown sugar: Adds a deep, molasses-like sweetness and creates the signature swirl.
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: The perfect spice to complement the sweetness of apples.

Bread Loaf

  • 2 large apples: Any variety works—Granny Smith for tartness or Honeycrisp for a sweet crunch.
  • 1/2 cup butter (softened): Provides richness and moisture for a tender loaf.
  • 2/3 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the loaf just right.
  • 2 large eggs (room temperature): Help bind the batter and ensure a fluffy texture.
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor with a sweet, aromatic note.
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Forms the structure of the loaf.
  • 1 3/4 teaspoons baking powder: Leavens the bread, creating a light and airy crumb.
  • 1/2 cup milk or almond milk (room temperature): Adds moisture and smooths out the batter.

Chopped Apple Mixture

  • 2 large apples (peeled and chopped small): For juicy bursts of flavor in every bite.
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar: Adds extra sweetness to the apples.
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and spice.

Old-Fashioned Creme Glaze

  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar: The base for a smooth, sweet glaze.
  • 1-3 tablespoons milk or cream: Adjust to achieve your desired glaze thickness.
    • For an “apple fritter” style glaze: Use 3 tablespoons milk for a thinner, pourable glaze.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Apple Cinnamon Swirl Loaf

1. Preheat and Prepare

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with non-stick spray or line it with foil for easy removal.
  • Mix together 1/3 cup brown sugar and 1 teaspoon cinnamon in a small bowl. Set aside.

2. Prepare the Batter

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups flour and 1 3/4 teaspoons baking powder. Set aside.
  2. In a separate bowl, beat 2/3 cup sugar and 1/2 cup softened butter with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
  3. Add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract.
  4. Gradually add the flour mixture into the creamed butter mixture, mixing until combined.
  5. Slowly mix in 1/2 cup milk until the batter is smooth and thick.

3. Assemble the Loaf

  1. Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
  2. Top with half of the chopped apples (mixed with sugar and cinnamon). Sprinkle with half of the brown sugar-cinnamon mixture.
  3. Pour the remaining batter over the apple layer. Top with the remaining chopped apples and the rest of the brown sugar-cinnamon mixture.
  4. Lightly pat the apples into the batter and use a knife or spoon to gently swirl the brown sugar mixture throughout the loaf.

4. Bake to Perfection

  • Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  • Let the loaf cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

5. Make the Creme Glaze

  1. Whisk together 1/2 cup powdered sugar and 1-3 tablespoons milk or cream until smooth. Adjust for desired thickness:
    • Thinner glaze: Use more milk for a pourable consistency.
    • Thicker glaze: Use less milk for a drizzled finish.
  2. Microwave the glaze for 10 seconds if needed for easier pouring.
  3. Drizzle the glaze generously over the cooled loaf.

Pro Tips for the Best Apple Cinnamon Swirl Loaf

  • Use Fresh Apples: Fresh, firm apples like Granny Smith or Fuji hold their shape while baking and provide a juicy texture.
  • Perfect Swirl: Don’t over-swirl the brown sugar mixture; you want defined, delicious layers.
  • Customize the Flavor: Add chopped walnuts for crunch, chocolate chips for indulgence, or swap in pears for a twist.
  • Double the Glaze: For a more decadent finish, make a double batch of the glaze—pour once and drizzle again for maximum sweetness.
  • Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs, milk, and butter are at room temperature for a smooth, even batter.

Serving Suggestions

  • Pair a slice of this Apple Cinnamon Swirl Loaf with a steaming cup of pumpkin spice latte or hot cider for the ultimate fall treat.
  • Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert option.
  • This loaf also makes an excellent breakfast bread—warm it up and spread with butter for a comforting start to your day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Homemade Apple Cinnamon Swirl Loaf combines the best flavors of fall: sweet, spiced apples and a rich, moist crumb topped with a creamy glaze. Whether you're baking it for yourself, sharing it with loved ones, or gifting it to a friend, it’s an irresistible recipe that delivers cozy autumn vibes in every bite.

Simple to Make. Easy to Love.

With easy-to-follow steps, customizable options, and the perfect blend of flavors, this loaf is a must-try for any baker. Whether you're baking for a fall gathering or enjoying a quiet afternoon at home, this Apple Cinnamon Swirl Loaf is guaranteed to delight.

Bake, slice, and enjoy! 🍁🍎