Homemade Apple Cinnamon Swirl Loaf Recipe

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There’s something truly magical about the smell of baked apples and cinnamon wafting through the kitchen. This Apple Cinnamon Swirl Loaf captures the essence of cozy fall afternoons, with tender, sweet apples nestled in a buttery, fluffy bread topped with a luscious old-fashioned crème glaze. It’s a recipe that evokes warmth, nostalgia, and comfort in every slice.

Perfect for a weekend brunch, a family gathering, or simply as a treat with your afternoon coffee, this loaf is a versatile, easy-to-make delight. You can keep it classic or get creative—add walnuts, swap in chocolate chips, or even experiment with other fruits. But today, we’re savoring the timeless apple fritter flavor.

Let’s get baking!

Ingredients

Brown Sugar & Cinnamon Mixture:

  • 1/3 cup light brown sugar – Adds a rich, caramel-like sweetness to the swirl.
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – The perfect spice to pair with apples and bring warmth to the loaf.

Bread Loaf Batter:

  • 2 large apples – Any variety works, peeled and chopped for juicy bursts of flavor.
  • 1/2 cup butter, softened – Creates a tender crumb and buttery taste.
  • 2/3 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the loaf just right.
  • 2 eggs (room temperature) – Provides structure and helps the batter rise.
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor with a hint of warmth.
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour – The foundation of the loaf.
  • 1 3/4 teaspoons baking powder – Ensures the loaf rises beautifully.
  • 1/2 cup milk (or almond milk) – Adds moisture for a soft, fluffy texture.

Chopped Apple Mixture:

  • 2 large apples, peeled and chopped small but not too fine.
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar – Helps sweeten and soften the apples as they bake.
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Coats the apples with that iconic fall flavor.

Old-Fashioned Crème Glaze:

  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar – Sweet and smooth for the perfect drizzle.
  • 1-3 tablespoons milk or cream – Adjust the amount depending on how thick or thin you want the glaze.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Loaf Pan and Oven

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Spray a 9x5-inch loaf pan with non-stick spray or line it with foil for easy removal.

2. Make the Brown Sugar Cinnamon Mixture

  • In a small bowl, combine 1/3 cup light brown sugar and 1 teaspoon cinnamon. Set aside for later.

3. Prepare the Batter

  • In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour and 1 3/4 teaspoons baking powder. Set aside.
  • In another bowl, beat 1/2 cup softened butter and 2/3 cup granulated sugar using an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
  • Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  • Gradually mix in the dry flour mixture.
  • Finally, add 1/2 cup milk, stirring until the batter is smooth and well combined.

4. Prepare the Apple Mixture

  • Peel and chop 2 large apples. Toss them with 2 tablespoons sugar and 1 teaspoon cinnamon until well coated.

5. Assemble the Loaf

  • Pour half the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
  • Add half the chopped apples and sprinkle with half of the brown sugar cinnamon mixture.
  • Pour the remaining batter over the apple layer. Top with the rest of the chopped apples and brown sugar cinnamon mixture.
  • Lightly press the apples into the batter and swirl the brown sugar mixture into the loaf using a knife or spoon for that beautiful marbled effect.

6. Bake the Loaf

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

7. Make the Glaze

  • Mix 1/2 cup powdered sugar with 1-3 tablespoons milk or cream to achieve your desired consistency.
  • For a thin, pourable glaze, use more milk; for a thicker drizzle, use less.
  • Optional: Microwave the glaze for 10 seconds to make it easier to pour.
  • Drizzle the glaze generously over the cooled loaf.

Pro Tips for Success

  1. Don’t Overmix – Mix the batter just until the flour is incorporated to avoid a dense loaf.
  2. Glaze It Twice – For a true apple fritter donut experience, first pour a thin glaze over the loaf, let it set, and drizzle a thicker glaze on top.
  3. Apple Choice – Use firm, slightly tart apples like Granny Smith for a nice contrast to the sweetness. For a softer bite, go with Honeycrisp or Fuji.
  4. Customize the Recipe – Add chopped walnuts for crunch or swap in chocolate chips for a decadent twist.

Serving Suggestions

  • Pair a warm slice of this loaf with a steaming cup of chai latte or coffee for the ultimate cozy treat.
  • Serve it for breakfast alongside scrambled eggs and bacon to balance the sweetness.
  • Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top of a warm slice for an indulgent dessert.

Final Thoughts

This Apple Cinnamon Swirl Loaf is everything you want in a fall-inspired bake: tender, flavorful, and bursting with cinnamon-spiced apples. The irresistible swirl of brown sugar and the sweet crème glaze take this loaf to the next level. Whether you’re baking it for a cozy family brunch, a festive gathering, or just to treat yourself, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

Simple, customizable, and full of flavor, this recipe will quickly become your go-to fall bake. So grab your apples, preheat that oven, and get ready to savor the season—one slice at a time.

Enjoy! Happy Baking!