Homemade Apple Cinnamon Swirl Loaf Recipe – Moist, Sweet, and Irresistible
If you’re craving a cozy, bakery-style treat that fills your home with the warm aroma of apples and cinnamon, this Homemade Apple Cinnamon Swirl Loaf is the perfect recipe. This moist quick bread combines sweet chopped apples, a buttery cinnamon swirl, and a drizzle of creamy glaze for a dessert (or breakfast) that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re preparing it for fall gatherings, holiday brunch, or simply as a sweet weekend bake, this easy recipe will quickly become a family favorite.
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 variety works well)
For the Glaze
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix the Cinnamon Sugar
In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and ground cinnamon. Set aside—this will be used for the swirl layers.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat together the white sugar and softened butter until smooth and creamy. This creates the perfect fluffy base for your loaf.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract until well incorporated.
Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix the flour and baking powder. Add this mixture to the creamed butter mixture, stirring until just combined. Slowly stir in the milk until the batter is smooth.
Step 6: Layer the Batter
Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Spread half of the chopped apples over the batter, then sprinkle with half of the brown sugar–cinnamon mixture. Repeat with the remaining batter, apples, and cinnamon sugar.
Step 7: Bake the Loaf
Bake for 30–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 8: Add the Glaze
Whisk together the powdered sugar and milk until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled loaf for a sweet finishing touch.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
- Breakfast Treat: Serve warm slices with a pat of butter for a cozy morning meal.
- Dessert Upgrade: Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an indulgent dessert.
- Nutty Twist: Fold in 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
- Healthier Option: Swap half the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour and use coconut sugar instead of white sugar.
- Spiced Flavor: Enhance the flavor with a pinch of nutmeg or allspice in the batter.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use different apples?
Yes! Granny Smith apples add a tart flavor, while Honeycrisp and Fuji bring extra sweetness.
How do I store apple cinnamon swirl loaf?
Keep the loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. It also freezes well—wrap tightly in plastic and freeze for up to 3 months.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! You can bake two loaves at once or use a larger pan. Just adjust the baking time as needed.
Is this loaf dairy-free friendly?
Yes, you can substitute plant-based butter and non-dairy milk for a dairy-free version.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 310 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Fat: 13 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sugar: 26 g
Conclusion
This Homemade Apple Cinnamon Swirl Loaf is more than just a bread—it’s a comforting, crowd-pleasing treat that’s perfect for breakfast, dessert, or snacking anytime of the year. With its tender crumb, bursts of apple, and signature cinnamon swirl, it’s guaranteed to satisfy. Try this recipe once, and it will quickly become a staple in your baking rotation.