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Apple Cinnamon Swirl Loaf Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 84 reviews

This Apple Cinnamon Swirl Loaf is a moist, tender quick bread bursting with fresh diced apples and warm cinnamon flavor. Layers of a sweet cinnamon swirl folded right into the batter create a beautiful marbled effect that enhances every bite. Finished with an optional vanilla glaze, this loaf makes the perfect cozy breakfast treat or afternoon snack.

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. Use a whisk to blend them thoroughly, then set the bowl 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 until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
  4. Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs to the creamed mixture, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
  5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the creamed butter and sugar, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and finish with the dry ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Take care not to overmix to ensure a tender loaf.
  6. Fold in Apples: Carefully fold the diced apples into the batter, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout without overworking the mixture.
  7. Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl Mixture: In a small bowl, mix the packed 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, spreading it evenly. Spoon half of the cinnamon swirl mixture over the batter, then use a knife to gently swirl it through the batter. Pour the remaining apple batter on top, followed by the rest of the cinnamon swirl mixture, swirling again for a beautiful marbled effect.
  9. Bake the Loaf: Place the loaf in the preheated oven and bake for 55-65 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean. If the top starts to brown too quickly, loosely tent it with aluminum foil.
  10. Cool the Loaf: Remove the loaf from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
  11. Prepare the Glaze (Optional): If using, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth and free of lumps.
  12. Serve and Enjoy: Once cooled, slice the loaf and drizzle with the glaze, if desired. Enjoy a delightful piece of apple cinnamon goodness!

Notes

  • Use tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for balanced sweetness and texture.
  • Do not overmix the batter after adding flour to keep the loaf tender and moist.
  • If the top browns too fast during baking, loosely cover with foil to prevent burning.
  • Allow the loaf to cool completely before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting off.
  • For a dairy-free variation, substitute buttermilk with a plant-based milk and vinegar mixture.
  • The glaze is optional but adds a nice sweet finish and visual appeal.
  • Store leftovers wrapped tightly at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

Keywords: apple cinnamon loaf, cinnamon swirl bread, quick bread, autumn baking, apple bread, cinnamon bread, breakfast loaf, easy loaf recipe

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