Cinnamon Swirl Apple Bread
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Savor the warm flavors of fall with this delicious Cinnamon Swirl Apple Bread recipe. This moist and tender loaf is packed with fresh apples and swirls of cinnamon sugar, making it the perfect treat for breakfast or a cozy afternoon snack. Simple to make and incredibly satisfying, this bread is sure to become a family favorite that fills your kitchen with delightful aromas.
This charming bread combines the sweetness of apples with the warmth of cinnamon to create a delightful treat perfect for any occasion.
The Perfect Fall Treat
Cinnamon Swirl Apple Bread embodies the essence of autumn with its delightful blend of warm spices and fresh apples. As the leaves change color and the air turns crisp, this recipe offers a comforting way to celebrate the season. It's not just a recipe; it's an experience that fills your kitchen with inviting aromas, making it the perfect centerpiece for gatherings or simple family breakfasts.
This delightful bread is ideal for using up those extra apples from your fall harvest or to take advantage of seasonal sales at the market. The combination of tender, flaky bread swirled with sweet cinnamon and apple pieces ensures that each bite is bursting with flavor and texture. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or toasted with a bit of butter, Cinnamon Swirl Apple Bread is bound to warm your heart.
Tips for the Best Bread
To ensure your Cinnamon Swirl Apple Bread comes out perfectly every time, it's vital to use the right type of apples. Varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp add a nice tartness that balances the sweetness of the bread. Be sure to dice the apples into smaller pieces for even distribution, ensuring that every slice is packed with delicious apple chunks.
Another tip for achieving that perfect swirl of cinnamon is to sprinkle the mixture evenly over the batter before layering it in the pan. This creates a beautiful marbled effect as the bread bakes. Lastly, keep an eye on your baking time, as ovens can vary. It's always best to do a toothpick test to check for doneness before taking it out of the oven.
Serving and Storing
Cinnamon Swirl Apple Bread is best enjoyed fresh, but it can also be stored for later enjoyment. If you plan to keep it for a few days, store it wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature to preserve its moisture and flavor. You can also freeze slices for easy later enjoyment; just wrap them individually and seal them tightly in a freezer-safe bag.
This bread is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. Slice it thick and enjoy it plain, or elevate it with a spread of cream cheese or butter. For a brunch gathering, consider serving it alongside a warm cup of spiced cider or coffee. With its extraordinary flavor profile, Cinnamon Swirl Apple Bread is sure to impress guests and family alike, making it a delightful addition to any meal.
Ingredients
For the Bread
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup diced apples (peeled)
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
For the Cinnamon Swirl
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
Cream Butter and Sugar
In another bowl, cream together the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Combine Wet Ingredients
Add eggs and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, mixing well.
Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
Add Apples and Nuts
Fold in the diced apples and nuts, if using.
Prepare Cinnamon Swirl
In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon.
Layer the Batter
Pour half of the batter into the greased loaf pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon mixture. Top with remaining batter and sprinkle the rest of the cinnamon mixture.
Bake
Bake for 50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cool and Serve
Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Enjoy warm or at room temperature!
FAQs About Cinnamon Swirl Apple Bread
One common question is, 'Can I use other fruits in this recipe?' Absolutely! While apples are the star of this version, feel free to experiment with pears or even berries for a different twist. Just be mindful of the moisture content in the fruits you choose, as this can affect the texture of the bread.
Another frequent inquiry concerns the use of nuts. While the recipe includes optional chopped nuts for added texture, they can easily be omitted if you prefer a nut-free version. Alternatively, you can swap in seeds or dried fruits for a unique touch that caters to your dietary preferences.
Pairing Suggestions
Cinnamon Swirl Apple Bread pairs wonderfully with a variety of beverages. A hot cup of chai tea or a traditional apple cider complements the warm spices and flavors wonderfully. For those looking for a richer experience, a drizzle of caramel sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can turn this bread into a delightful dessert.
For a more savory touch, consider pairing your slices with a slice of aged cheddar or a smear of almond butter. This combination balances the sweetness of the bread while adding a delightful crunch and creaminess that enhances the overall experience.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other fruits?
Yes, pears or berries work well too.
→ How do I store this bread?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Cinnamon Swirl Apple Bread
Savor the warm flavors of fall with this delicious Cinnamon Swirl Apple Bread recipe. This moist and tender loaf is packed with fresh apples and swirls of cinnamon sugar, making it the perfect treat for breakfast or a cozy afternoon snack. Simple to make and incredibly satisfying, this bread is sure to become a family favorite that fills your kitchen with delightful aromas.
Created by: Ella
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 1 loaf
What You'll Need
For the Bread
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup diced apples (peeled)
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
For the Cinnamon Swirl
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
In another bowl, cream together the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Add eggs and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, mixing well.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
Fold in the diced apples and nuts, if using.
In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon.
Pour half of the batter into the greased loaf pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon mixture. Top with remaining batter and sprinkle the rest of the cinnamon mixture.
Bake for 50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220
- Total Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 34g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 15g