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Apple Cinnamon Swirl Loaf Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 60 reviews

This Apple Cinnamon Swirl Loaf is a moist, flavorful quick bread featuring tender chunks of diced apples and a rich cinnamon swirl throughout. The loaf is lightly spiced with cinnamon and enhanced with a buttery cinnamon sugar swirl that creates a beautiful marbled effect. Optionally topped with a sweet vanilla glaze, this comforting bread is perfect for breakfast or an afternoon treat.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Loaf:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk
  • 1 1/2 cups peeled and diced apples (preferably Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)

For the Cinnamon Swirl:

  • 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted

For the Glaze (optional):

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×5-inch loaf pan by greasing and flouring it or lining it with parchment paper for easy release.
  2. Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. Whisk them thoroughly to blend evenly, then set aside.
  3. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together. Beat for about 3-4 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy.
  4. Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time to the creamed mixture, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract until fully combined.
  5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture, alternating with buttermilk. Start and finish with the dry ingredients, mixing gently until just combined to avoid overmixing and ensure a tender loaf.
  6. Fold in Apples: Gently fold the peeled and diced apples into the batter, distributing them evenly without overworking the mix.
  7. Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl Mixture: In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and melted butter until a smooth paste forms.
  8. Layer the Batter: Pour half of the apple batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly. Spoon half of the cinnamon swirl mixture over the batter, then use a knife to gently swirl it through. Add the remaining batter on top, followed by the rest of the cinnamon swirl mixture, swirling again to create a marbled effect.
  9. Bake the Loaf: Bake in the preheated oven for 55-65 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean. If the top browns too quickly, tent with aluminum foil.
  10. Cool the Loaf: Remove from oven and cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  11. Prepare the Glaze (Optional): Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and lump-free.
  12. Serve and Enjoy: Slice the cooled loaf and drizzle with the prepared glaze if desired. Enjoy this warm, flavorful apple cinnamon treat!

Notes

  • Use tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best balance of sweetness and tartness.
  • Do not overmix the batter once the dry ingredients are added to keep the loaf tender.
  • If the top of the loaf browns too quickly while baking, tent it gently with foil to prevent burning.
  • The glaze is optional but adds a lovely sweetness and enhances presentation.
  • For a decorative touch, serve slices with a light dusting of ground cinnamon and extra apple slices on the side.

Keywords: apple cinnamon loaf, cinnamon swirl loaf, apple bread, quick bread, breakfast bread, cinnamon swirl

Find it online: https://dishedbydana.com/apple-cinnamon-swirl-loaf-recipe/