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The Cinnamon Swirl Apple Bread Recipe is one of those irresistible treats that feels like a warm hug from the inside out. Imagine tender bread bursting with tender apple pieces, swirled through with sweet cinnamon sugar layers that create a beautiful marbled effect both inside and out. This recipe brings together the perfect balance of soft, moist crumb and comforting spice, making it a favorite to bake for cozy mornings or special gatherings. Once you try this Cinnamon Swirl Apple Bread Recipe, it will quickly become your go-to for celebrating the flavors of fall all year round.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are delightfully simple and straightforward, yet each plays a crucial role in building both flavor and texture. From the rich butter that keeps the bread moist to the crisp apples lending natural sweetness, every component is essential to creating this memorable loaf.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, softened): Adds richness and tenderness to the bread’s crumb.
- Granulated sugar (1/2 cup): Provides sweetness and helps with the bread’s light texture.
- Brown sugar (1/2 cup, packed): Gives a subtle molasses flavor that deepens the taste.
- Large eggs (2): Bind ingredients together and contribute to a fluffy texture.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances sweetness with warm, fragrant undertones.
- All-purpose flour (1 1/2 cups): The base that gives structure to the loaf.
- Baking powder (1 3/4 teaspoons): Leavens the bread, making it light and airy.
- Milk (1/2 cup): Adds moisture and helps combine dry and wet ingredients smoothly.
- Ground cinnamon (1 1/2 teaspoons): Infuses the bread with that iconic warm, spicy aroma.
- Chopped apples (2 cups, peeled and cored): Deliver juicy bursts of natural sweetness and soft texture.
- Cinnamon Sugar Swirl (1/3 cup sugar, 1 teaspoon cinnamon): Creates the signature sweet, spiced swirls inside the bread.
How to Make Cinnamon Swirl Apple Bread Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan to ensure your beautiful bread won’t stick and comes out perfectly shaped.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter together with the granulated sugar and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is where air gets incorporated, helping your bread turn out delightfully tender.
Step 3: Add the Eggs and Vanilla
Mix in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully blended before adding the next. Then stir in the vanilla extract to round out the flavors with a lovely, comforting aroma.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients and Alternate with Milk
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder. Gradually add these dry ingredients into your wet mixture, alternating with milk. This gradual addition prevents overmixing and keeps the bread tender.
Step 5: Fold in the Apples
Gently fold in the chopped apples, distributing them evenly without smashing them, so you get juicy pockets throughout your loaf.
Step 6: Make the Cinnamon Sugar Swirl
In a small bowl, combine the sugar and cinnamon for the swirl. This mixture will create delectable pockets of sweet spice within your bread.
Step 7: Layer and Swirl the Batter
Pour half the batter into your prepared loaf pan, then sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar blend over it. Using a knife, gently swirl the mixture through the batter to create a beautiful marbled effect.
Step 8: Add Second Batter Layer and Swirl Again
Top with the remaining batter, sprinkle the rest of the cinnamon sugar, and swirl gently once more. This double swirl technique ensures cinnamon goodness in every bite.
Step 9: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. This perfect timing gives you a golden crust while keeping the inside soft and moist.
Step 10: Cool Before Slicing
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Cooling completely helps the bread set and makes slicing easier without crumbling.
How to Serve Cinnamon Swirl Apple Bread Recipe
Garnishes
A light dusting of powdered sugar or a thin spread of cream cheese frosting complements the warm cinnamon and apple flavors beautifully. For a cozy touch, try a drizzle of honey over warm slices.
Side Dishes
This bread pairs perfectly with a cup of hot coffee or spiced chai tea. It also shines alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream if you’re in the mood for a delightful dessert twist.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve slices stacked with a pat of cinnamon butter or wrapped in parchment paper tied with twine for a rustic gift idea. You can also transform this bread into French toast the next morning for a breakfast treat that wows.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, wrap leftover bread tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It stays fresh for up to three days, perfect for quick snacks or breakfast on the go.
Freezing
To enjoy this Cinnamon Swirl Apple Bread Recipe later, slice and wrap pieces individually in plastic wrap and then foil before placing them in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to three months without losing flavor or texture.
Reheating
For the best taste, reheat slices in a toaster oven or regular oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving as it can make the bread soggy.
FAQs
Can I use different types of apples in this recipe?
Absolutely! Firm apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji work best because they retain their texture well during baking, adding a nice bite to the bread.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend, but make sure it contains xanthan gum for proper structure. Expect a slightly different texture but still delicious results.
Can I add nuts or raisins to the Cinnamon Swirl Apple Bread Recipe?
Definitely. Chopped walnuts or pecans add a lovely crunch, while raisins bring extra sweetness. Fold them in along with the apples for a personalized twist.
How do I know when the bread is fully baked?
Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter), your bread is perfectly baked and ready to cool.
Can I make mini loaves or muffins with this batter?
Yes! Bake mini loaves or muffins for about 20 to 25 minutes at the same temperature. Keep an eye on them as smaller sizes bake more quickly.
Final Thoughts
This Cinnamon Swirl Apple Bread Recipe is a warm, cozy classic that brings joy to any kitchen. The way the sweet cinnamon swirls mingle with tender apple chunks is absolutely irresistible. Whether you’re baking it for yourself or sharing it with loved ones, this bread promises smiles with every slice. Don’t wait to whip up a loaf and experience the comforting magic yourself!
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Print
Cinnamon Swirl Apple Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 20m
- Cook Time: 1h 0m
- Total Time: 1h 20m
- Yield: 1 loaf (about 10-12 slices)
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cinnamon Swirl Apple Bread is a moist, flavorful quick bread packed with tender apples and warm cinnamon spice. Layers of cinnamon sugar swirl throughout the batter, creating a beautiful marbled effect and a perfect balance of sweetness and spice. Ideal for breakfast, snack, or dessert, it’s easy to make and bakes to a golden brown crust in under an hour.
Ingredients
Bread Batter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 3/4 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 2 cups chopped apples, peeled and cored
Cinnamon Sugar Swirl
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This creates a smooth base for the batter.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time to properly incorporate air and then stir in the vanilla extract for enhanced flavor.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and baking powder, ensuring even distribution of the leavening agent. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet batter, alternating with milk, and mix until just combined to avoid overmixing.
- Fold in Apples: Gently fold the chopped peeled and cored apples into the batter, distributing them evenly without breaking them apart.
- Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Swirl: Mix together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon for the swirl topping in a small bowl.
- Layer Batter and Swirl: Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the batter. Use a knife to gently swirl the cinnamon sugar through the batter, creating a marbled effect.
- Repeat Layers: Add the remaining batter on top of the first layer. Again, sprinkle the remaining cinnamon sugar mixture on top and swirl gently with a knife.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating the bread is fully cooked.
- Cool: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes to set before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely, ensuring the loaf slices cleanly.
Notes
- For an extra moist bread, use tart apples like Granny Smith for a nice balance of sweetness and tartness.
- Make sure not to overmix the batter to keep the bread tender and avoid toughness.
- Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; if it comes out with wet batter, continue baking and check every 5 minutes.
- Store the bread wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to one week.
- This bread can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight at room temperature.
