Description of this recipe
This Cinnamon Swirl Apple Bread is a delightful treat that combines the comforting flavors of cinnamon and apple in a moist, tender loaf. It’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy afternoon snack. The swirls of cinnamon sugar add a touch of sweetness and visual appeal, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. The bread is easy to make and uses simple ingredients, making it a great option for both experienced bakers and beginners. The addition of fresh apples keeps the bread moist and adds a subtle fruity sweetness that complements the warm spice of cinnamon beautifully.
Why you will love this recipe
You’ll absolutely adore this Cinnamon Swirl Apple Bread for its irresistible combination of flavors and textures. The moist, tender crumb, the sweet and spicy cinnamon swirl, and the chunks of soft, baked apples create a symphony of deliciousness in every bite. It’s incredibly easy to make, and the aroma that fills your kitchen as it bakes is simply heavenly. This bread is not just a treat; it’s an experience. It’s perfect for sharing with friends and family or enjoying a quiet slice on your own with a cup of coffee or tea. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and you’ll find yourself making it again and again. The simplicity of the ingredients and the straightforward instructions make it a go-to recipe for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 cups chopped apples (Pink Lady, Gala, Honeycrisp – any apples that are good for baking), peeled and chopped, about 2 apples
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8 x 5 inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper. This will ensure that the bread doesn’t stick to the pan and comes out easily. Set the prepared pan aside.
Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar and ground cinnamon. This mixture will create the delicious cinnamon swirl that runs through the bread. Ensure the two ingredients are thoroughly combined and set aside.
Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs and granulated sugar together until they are well combined. Whisking the eggs and sugar together creates a light and airy base for the bread.
Step 4: Whisk in the melted butter and vanilla extract into the egg and sugar mixture until everything is thoroughly combined. The melted butter adds richness and moisture to the bread, while the vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor.
Step 5: In the same mixing bowl, stir in the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt just until combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter. Overmixing can result in a tough bread. The batter will be quite thick at this stage.
Step 6: Gently fold in the chopped apples into the batter. Ensure the apples are evenly distributed throughout the batter. The apples will add moisture and a subtle sweetness to the bread.
Step 7: Add half of the batter to the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
Step 8: Sprinkle about three-quarters of the brown sugar-cinnamon mixture on top of the batter in the loaf pan.
Step 9: Carefully spread the remaining batter on top of the brown sugar mixture, trying to cover it as evenly as possible.
Step 10: Sprinkle the remaining brown sugar mixture on top of the second layer of batter. Use a knife or spoon to gently swirl the cinnamon-sugar mixture into the top layer of the batter, creating a beautiful marbled effect.
Step 11: Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 45 minutes, or until the bread is lightly golden on top and an inserted toothpick comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. If the bread is browning too quickly, you can tent it with foil for the last 10 to 15 minutes of baking to prevent it from burning.
Step 12: Let the bread cool completely in the loaf pan before slicing and serving. Cooling the bread completely allows it to set properly and makes it easier to slice.
COOKING Rating:
Easy
Serving Suggestions:
This Cinnamon Swirl Apple Bread is delicious on its own, but it can also be enhanced with a few simple additions. Serve it warm with a pat of butter or a dollop of whipped cream. It pairs perfectly with a cup of hot coffee, tea, or a glass of milk. For a more decadent treat, try toasting a slice and topping it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce. It also makes a wonderful addition to brunch spreads and is a great way to use up extra apples during the fall season.
Tips:
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Using room temperature eggs allows them to emulsify better with the other ingredients, resulting in a smoother batter.
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can lead to a tough bread. Mix until just combined.
- Choose the Right Apples: Select apples that hold their shape well during baking, such as Pink Lady, Gala, or Honeycrisp.
- Cool Completely: Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing to prevent it from crumbling.
- Storage: Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze slices for longer storage.
- Variations: Add chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to the batter for extra texture and flavor. A glaze made from powdered sugar and milk or lemon juice can also be drizzled over the cooled bread for added sweetness.
Prep Time:
20 minutes
Cook Time:
35-45 minutes
Total Time:
55-65 minutes
Nutritional Information: (Note: Nutritional information is approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
Calories:
Approximately 250-300 per slice
Protein:
Approximately 4-5 grams per slice
Sodium:
Approximately 150-200 mg per slice
Conclusion
This Cinnamon Swirl Apple Bread is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to create something special in your kitchen. The combination of warm spices, sweet apples, and a moist, tender crumb makes it a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re baking it for a weekend brunch, a holiday gathering, or simply to enjoy with a cup of coffee on a quiet afternoon, this bread is sure to bring joy to everyone who tries it. The simplicity of the ingredients and the easy-to-follow instructions make it accessible to bakers of all skill levels. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to fill your home with the irresistible aroma of freshly baked Cinnamon Swirl Apple Bread. It’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again, and one that’s sure to become a cherished favorite.
5 Questions and Answers About This Recipe
Q1: Can I use a different type of apple for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can definitely use different types of apples! While Pink Lady, Gala, and Honeycrisp are recommended for their baking qualities, you can experiment with other varieties like Fuji, Braeburn, or even Granny Smith for a slightly tart flavor. Just make sure the apples are firm and hold their shape well during baking.
Q2: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Ensure that the blend contains xanthan gum or add about ½ teaspoon of xanthan gum to the batter for better texture and structure.
Q3: How do I store the Cinnamon Swirl Apple Bread to keep it fresh?
A: To keep the bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the bread. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, or place slices in a freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Q4: Can I add nuts to this recipe?
A: Yes, adding nuts is a great way to enhance the flavor and texture of this bread! You can add about ½ cup of chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds to the batter along with the apples. Toasting the nuts before adding them can also bring out their flavor.
Q5: My bread is browning too quickly on top. What should I do?
A: If you notice that the bread is browning too quickly on top, you can tent it with aluminum foil for the last 10 to 15 minutes of baking. Simply place a sheet of foil loosely over the top of the loaf pan to protect it from direct heat while allowing the inside to continue baking.
