Homemade Apple Cinnamon Swirl Loaf Recipe

This Homemade Apple Cinnamon Swirl Loaf combines tender apple pieces, warm cinnamon, and a soft, buttery loaf. Perfect for breakfast, a coffee companion, or a dessert, this loaf is as delightful to make as it is to eat. Follow this easy recipe to create a warm, fragrant loaf that will fill your home with the smell of autumn.

Ingredients

For the Loaf

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1½ teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup milk
• 1½ cups peeled and finely diced apples (e.g., Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)

For the Cinnamon Swirl

• ⅓ cup granulated sugar
• 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon

For the Topping

• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons chopped nuts (optional, e.g., pecans or walnuts)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl: In a small bowl, mix the sugar and cinnamon for the swirl. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Batter

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Mix in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
4. Incorporate Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with milk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
5. Fold in Apples: Gently fold in the diced apples.

Step 3: Layer the Loaf

1. First Layer: Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly.
2. Add Cinnamon Swirl: Sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the batter.
3. Second Layer: Add the remaining batter and smooth it out.
4. Top with Swirl and Nuts: Sprinkle the remaining cinnamon-sugar mixture over the top, and if using, sprinkle the chopped nuts.

Step 4: Bake the Loaf

1. Bake: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
2. Cool: Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Slice and Serve: Slice the loaf once cooled and enjoy it as-is, or spread a little butter or cream cheese on top for extra indulgence.
2. Pair: Serve with a cup of tea, coffee, or hot cider for a cozy treat.

Tips for Success

• Use Fresh Apples: For the best flavor and texture, use fresh, crisp apples.
• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can lead to a dense loaf. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
• Add a Glaze: For extra sweetness, drizzle the loaf with a simple powdered sugar glaze once it has cooled.
• Storage: Store the loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to a week.

Conclusion

The Homemade Apple Cinnamon Swirl Loaf is a deliciously comforting treat that’s ideal for any time of day. Its blend of tender apples and warm cinnamon creates a loaf that’s as delightful as it is versatile. Perfect for autumn or anytime you’re craving a cozy bake, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home!