Homemade Apple Cinnamon Swirl Loaf

Table of Contents

This Apple Cinnamon Swirl Loaf is the perfect cozy, delicious treat for the fall season and Thanksgiving gatherings. With its sweet cinnamon swirl, tender apples, and rich glaze, it’s sure to be a hit! Here’s the full recipe along with some common questions to help you make this scrumptious loaf.

Ingredients:

For the loaf:

1/3 cup light brown sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
2/3 cup white sugar
1/2 cup butter, softened
2 eggs
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 3/4 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 cup milk
2 apples, peeled and chopped (any kind)

For the old-fashioned glaze:

1/2 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons milk

Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
Make the cinnamon sugar mixture:
- In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and ground cinnamon together. Set this aside for later.
Prepare the batter:
- In a separate large bowl, beat the white sugar and butter together until smooth and creamy.
- Beat in eggs, one at a time, until fully incorporated.
- Stir in vanilla extract for added flavor.
Combine dry ingredients:
- In a smaller bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and baking powder. Gradually add this to the creamed mixture, mixing well.
- Stir in the milk to create a smooth batter.
Layer the loaf:
- Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
- Sprinkle half of the chopped apples on top, followed by half of the cinnamon sugar mixture.
- Pour the remaining batter over the apple layer, then top with the rest of the chopped apples and the remaining cinnamon sugar mixture.
Bake the loaf:
- Bake for 30 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean. (Note: Baking times may vary depending on your oven. Mine usually takes 60-65 minutes. You may need to cover the loaf with foil if it browns too quickly on top.)
Cool the loaf:
- Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Make the glaze:
- While the loaf cools, whisk together powdered sugar and milk to create a smooth glaze.
- Once the loaf is completely cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top.
Serve and enjoy:
- Slice, serve, and enjoy your delicious Apple Cinnamon Swirl Loaf! Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or as a treat for any gathering.

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 40 minutes (varies based on your oven)

Total Time: 55 minutes

Servings: 8 servings

Q&A:

Q: Can I use a different kind of apple?

A: Absolutely! Any apple variety works, but Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples are particularly good for baking due to their balance of sweetness and tartness. Just make sure the apples are firm, so they don’t turn mushy while baking.

Q: My loaf seems to be browning too quickly on top. What should I do?

A: If the top is browning too fast, cover the loaf with foil halfway through baking to prevent over-browning while the inside cooks through. You may need to bake it a bit longer with the foil on top.

Q: Can I make this loaf without the glaze?

A: Yes, you can skip the glaze if you prefer a less sweet option. The loaf is still delicious on its own, with a beautiful cinnamon and apple flavor. The glaze adds an extra touch of sweetness, but it’s optional.

Q: Can I use a different type of flour, like whole wheat?

A: You can substitute whole wheat flour, but keep in mind it may make the loaf denser. If you do, you might need to adjust the liquid slightly by adding a little more milk.

Q: Can I make this loaf ahead of time?

A: Yes, this loaf can be made ahead and stored. It keeps well for about 3 days at room temperature, or you can store it in the fridge for up to a week. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.

Q: Can I add nuts to this loaf?

A: Definitely! Chopped walnuts or pecans would add a wonderful crunch and flavor to the loaf. Just fold them into the batter before baking.

Conclusion:

This Apple Cinnamon Swirl Loaf is a warm, comforting, and flavorful treat perfect for fall and Thanksgiving celebrations. It’s easy to make, packed with delicious apple and cinnamon layers, and topped with a sweet glaze. Whether you serve it for breakfast, dessert, or as a snack, this loaf is sure to be a hit! Enjoy! 🍏🍞✨