This Cinnamon Swirl Apple Bread is a warm, soft, and moist loaf bursting with the flavors of sweet apples, cinnamon, and brown sugar. With a beautiful cinnamon swirl running through it, this bread is perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack.
It’s easy to make and fills your kitchen with the most irresistible aroma. Let’s get started!
Ingredients
For the Bread:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon 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 buttermilk (or whole milk)
- 1 cup chopped apples (peeled, any variety)
For the Cinnamon Swirl:
- ⅓ cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
For the Topping (Optional):
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- 1 tablespoon sugar mixed with ½ teaspoon cinnamon
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Servings: 8-10 slices
How to Make Cinnamon Swirl Apple Bread
Step 1: Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl
- In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon together. Set aside.
Step 2: Make the Bread Batter
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
- Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, alternating with buttermilk, until just combined.
- Gently fold in the chopped apples.
Step 3: Layer the Batter and Cinnamon Swirl
- Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
- Sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the batter.
- Add the remaining batter, then top with the rest of the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- Use a knife to gently swirl the cinnamon mixture into the batter.
Step 4: Bake the Bread
- Bake for 50-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Step 5: Add the Finishing Touches
- Brush the top with melted butter, then sprinkle with cinnamon sugar for an extra sweet crunch.
- Slice and serve warm with butter or a drizzle of honey.
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy with a hot cup of coffee or tea.
- Spread with cream cheese, butter, or apple butter.
- Serve warm with vanilla ice cream for a dessert twist.
Tips for the Best Cinnamon Swirl Apple Bread
Use tart apples – Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best for flavor balance.
Don’t overmix the batter – This keeps the bread soft and moist.
Swirl gently – Overmixing the cinnamon sugar may prevent distinct swirls.
Storage: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
Freezing: Wrap slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
Calories and Nutritional Information (Per Slice)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 20g
(Nutritional values may vary based on ingredients used.)
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Super soft and moist – Perfectly tender and flavorful.
Easy to make – Simple ingredients, no fancy equipment needed!
Cinnamon sugar swirl – Adds a beautiful, sweet crunch.
Great for any time of day – Perfect for breakfast, snack, or dessert.
Final Thoughts
This Cinnamon Swirl Apple Bread is the ultimate cozy, homemade treat with sweet apple chunks, a buttery texture, and a rich cinnamon swirl. Whether you’re making it for a fall-inspired breakfast or as a gift for loved ones, this bread will always be a hit!