If you’re on the lookout for a comforting treat that combines the warmth of cinnamon with the juicy sweetness of fresh apples, you’ve got to try this Cinnamon Swirl Apple Fritter Bread Recipe. It’s a delightful twist on a classic apple fritter, baked into a tender, moist bread that’s perfect for breakfast, snack time, or dessert. Filled with a luscious cinnamon-sugar swirl and chunks of spiced apples, each bite feels like a cozy hug from the inside out. Plus, the sweet glaze drizzled on top seals in all that heavenly flavor, making it impossible to resist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Preparing this Cinnamon Swirl Apple Fritter Bread Recipe is wonderfully simple because every ingredient plays a crucial role, whether it’s building the batter’s fluffiness, adding sweetness, or creating that irresistible cinnamon aroma. Here’s what you’ll need to gather before you start baking.
- Light brown sugar: Adds a deep, molasses-like sweetness that enhances the cinnamon flavor.
- Ground cinnamon: The star spice that gives the bread its classic warm and spicy note.
- Granulated sugar: Provides the essential sweetness in the batter and topping.
- Unsalted butter, softened: Ensures a rich, tender crumb without overpowering saltiness.
- Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and contribute to a light, airy texture.
- Vanilla extract: Gives a subtle, aromatic undertone that complements the cinnamon perfectly.
- All-purpose flour: The base of the bread, lending structure to the batter.
- Baking powder: Helps the bread rise and stay fluffy throughout baking.
- Milk: Moisturizes the batter and keeps it tender.
- Apples, peeled and chopped: Fresh apples provide juicy bursts of flavor and texture.
- Powdered sugar: Used for the sweet glaze that tops off the bread beautifully.
How to Make Cinnamon Swirl Apple Fritter Bread Recipe
Step 1: Get Your Pan Ready
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan to ensure your bread slides out easily after baking. This simple prep step sets you up for success later on.
Step 2: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Blend
In a small bowl, mix together the light brown sugar and ground cinnamon. This mixture will create that iconic cinnamon swirl and add bursts of sweet spice inside the bread.
Step 3: Season the Apples
Combine the chopped apples with granulated sugar and cinnamon in another bowl. This step lets the fruit take on a sweet, spiced flavor that will contrast beautifully with the soft bread.
Step 4: Make the Batter
In a large bowl, cream together the granulated sugar and softened butter until the mixture is light and fluffy, unlocking a rich texture. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract for that extra layer of flavor.
Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients
Whisk together the flour and baking powder in a separate bowl. Gradually add this dry mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with milk, starting and ending with the flour mixture. Mix just until combined to keep the bread tender.
Step 6: Layer the Batter and Fillings
Pour half of the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the batter, then distribute half of the apple mixture on top, gently pressing the apples into the batter.
Step 7: Add the Remaining Layers and Swirl
Pour the remaining batter over the layers, spreading it evenly. Top with the rest of the cinnamon-sugar blend and apples. Use a knife to lightly swirl these toppings into the batter, creating those beautiful cinnamon swirls that make this bread irresistible.
Step 8: Bake
Bake for 50 to 60 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Patience here pays off with a perfect loaf every time.
Step 9: Drizzle the Glaze
Whisk powdered sugar and milk together until smooth. Drizzle this glaze generously over the cooled bread, adding an extra sweet finish that melts into every cinnamon-swirled bite.
How to Serve Cinnamon Swirl Apple Fritter Bread Recipe
Garnishes
For an inviting look, sprinkle a tiny bit of cinnamon or a light dusting of powdered sugar over the glaze. Fresh apple slices or a pinch of chopped nuts on top can also add a crunchy contrast that makes each serving pop visually and texturally.
Side Dishes
This bread pairs beautifully with a cup of hot coffee, chai tea, or a spiced latte for an indulgent morning treat. If serving as dessert, offer it alongside whipped cream or smooth vanilla ice cream for a cozy, decadent finish.
Creative Ways to Present
Try slicing the bread thick and lightly toasting it, then spread with cinnamon butter or cream cheese for elevated flavor. You can also cut the bread into small cubes and serve it as part of a brunch bread basket alongside other pastries.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled completely, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This keeps it moist, flavorful, and ready to enjoy whenever you want a slice.
Freezing
The Cinnamon Swirl Apple Fritter Bread Recipe freezes wonderfully. Wrap it well in plastic and then foil, or use a freezer-safe container. It will keep fresh for up to three months, making it perfect for prepping ahead or gifting to friends.
Reheating
To revive that fresh-baked warmth, slice what you need and toast the bread lightly or warm it in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds. The glaze softens and the cinnamon-spiced apples taste like they were just baked.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of apple?
Absolutely! Crisp apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best because they hold their shape and provide a nice tart balance to the sweet cinnamon sugar.
Is it possible to make this bread gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend that includes xanthan gum to maintain structure. Just be sure to follow your blend’s instructions for best results.
Can I add nuts to this recipe?
Definitely! Chopped walnuts or pecans make a delicious addition to the apple mixture or sprinkled on top for a pleasant crunch and rich flavor contrast.
How long will this bread stay fresh at room temperature?
When stored properly in an airtight container, this Cinnamon Swirl Apple Fritter Bread stays fresh for about three days. For longer storage, freezing is recommended.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
With a few substitutions—such as using flax eggs instead of regular eggs, plant-based butter, and non-dairy milk—you can create a vegan version that’s just as delicious!
Final Thoughts
This Cinnamon Swirl Apple Fritter Bread Recipe is a heartwarming, crowd-pleasing treat that’s as comforting as it is delicious. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it quickly becomes a favorite to bake and share. Whether for a cozy breakfast or an afternoon pick-me-up, this bread is sure to brighten your day. So grab those apples and cinnamon and get ready to bake some magic!
Print
Cinnamon Swirl Apple Fritter Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Breakfast, Snack, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cinnamon Swirl Apple Fritter Bread is a moist and flavorful loaf featuring layers of cinnamon-sugar and spiced apples swirled through tender, buttery batter. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy dessert, it combines the comforting flavors of apple fritters with the ease of quick bread. Finished with a simple powdered sugar glaze, this bread is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
For the Cinnamon Sugar Swirl
- 1/3 cup light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
For the Bread Batter
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 3/4 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 cup milk
For the Apple Mixture
- 2 large apples, peeled and chopped
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
For the Glaze
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons milk
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan to prevent sticking.
- Make Cinnamon Sugar Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the light brown sugar and 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon. Set aside for swirls in the bread.
- Prepare Apple Mixture: In another bowl, toss the chopped peeled apples with 2 tablespoons granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon. Set aside to let apples absorb the flavors.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the granulated sugar and softened butter together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This creates a creamy base for the batter.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated. Stir in the vanilla extract for flavor.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and baking powder.
- Mix Batter: Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with milk. Begin and end with the flour mixture. Stir just until combined to keep the bread tender.
- Layer Batter and Mixtures: Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the batter, then spoon half of the apple mixture on top and lightly press them into the batter.
- Add Remaining Layers and Swirl: Pour the remaining batter over the apples and spread evenly. Top with the remaining cinnamon sugar and apple mixture. Using a knife, lightly swirl the top to create a marbled effect.
- Bake the Bread: Place the loaf pan in the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. The bread is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare Glaze and Drizzle: Whisk powdered sugar and milk together until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bread for a sweet finish.
Notes
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a nice balance to the sweet bread.
- If apples are very juicy, drain excess liquid before mixing to avoid a soggy bread.
- You can substitute milk with almond or oat milk for a dairy-free option.
- Store leftover bread tightly wrapped at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
- Ensure not to overmix batter once flour is added to keep the bread tender and soft.
