This Cinnamon Swirl Apple Fritter Bread is a cozy, delicious treat that combines the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon, apples, and a soft, slightly sweet bread. Perfect for chilly mornings or as a snack with your favorite hot beverage, this bread is an easy-to-make delight that will fill your kitchen with the irresistible smell of autumn. Whether you’re baking it for yourself or sharing it with loved ones, it’s guaranteed to become a favorite!
Ingredients
For the Bread:
1/3 cup light brown sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
2/3 cup granulated sugar
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup buttermilk (or 1 cup milk with 1 tablespoon vinegar)
1 large apple, peeled, cored, and diced (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
For the Cinnamon Swirl:
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Preheat your oven: Set the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan. You can also line the pan with parchment paper for easy removal of the bread once it’s baked.
Prepare the apple: Peel, core, and dice the apple into small pieces. Set aside.
Step 2: Make the Bread Batter
In a large bowl, combine light brown sugar, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Mix well.
Cream the butter and sugars: Add the softened butter to the sugar mixture and beat it with an electric mixer or by hand until light and fluffy. This should take about 2 minutes.
Add the eggs and vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
Alternate wet and dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
Add the diced apples: Gently fold the diced apple pieces into the batter.
Step 3: Make the Cinnamon Swirl
In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon for the swirl. Set aside.
Step 4: Assemble the Bread
Layer the batter: Pour half of the bread batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing it out evenly.
Add the cinnamon swirl: Sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the batter.
Add the remaining batter: Spoon the remaining batter into the pan, spreading it out gently to cover the cinnamon layer.
Create the swirl: Sprinkle the remaining cinnamon-sugar mixture on top of the batter. Using a butter knife or a skewer, gently swirl the cinnamon sugar into the batter. Don’t overmix—just a few swirls to create the cinnamon pattern.
Step 5: Bake the Bread
Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the bread comes out clean.
Cool: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Why This Recipe Works
Apple chunks: The diced apples add natural sweetness and moisture to the bread, making it tender and flavorful with every bite.
Cinnamon swirl: The cinnamon-sugar swirl not only adds a burst of flavor but also creates a beautiful marbled effect in the bread.
Soft and fluffy texture: The combination of buttermilk and butter ensures the bread stays soft and moist without being heavy.
Tips for Recipe Success
Use fresh apples: To get the best flavor and texture, use firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. They hold up well in the batter and balance the sweetness of the bread.
Don’t overmix: Overmixing the batter can lead to a dense loaf. Mix until just combined to keep the texture light.
Check for doneness: Ovens can vary, so be sure to check the bread with a toothpick around the 55-minute mark. If it comes out clean, it’s done!
Serving Suggestions
Morning treat: This bread makes a perfect breakfast or brunch item, served alongside a hot cup of coffee or tea.
Snack or dessert: Enjoy a slice as a snack, or serve it as a dessert with a drizzle of caramel or a dusting of powdered sugar.
Gift idea: Wrap up a loaf in parchment paper or a decorative box to share with friends or family during the holidays.
Storage Instructions
Store: Keep the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4-5 days.
Freeze: To keep the bread fresh longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before serving.
Why You’ll Love Cinnamon Swirl Apple Fritter Bread
This bread combines the best of both worlds: the comfort of a classic apple fritter and the ease of a loaf-style bread. It’s perfect for chilly weather when you crave something warm, spiced, and comforting. With the delicate swirl of cinnamon sugar and chunks of tender apple, this bread is sure to become a staple in your baking rotation!