Cinnamon Swirl Apple Bread
Ingredients
- ½ cup light brown sugar
packed
- 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter
melted and slightly cooled, 1 stick
- ½ cup milk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
spooned into measuring cup and leveled-off
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 cup peeled
cored, and finely diced tart baking apples, from 1 apple, preferably Granny Smith
Directions
- 1
Preheat the oven to 350°F and set an oven rack in the middle position. Spray an 8.5 x 4.5-inch loaf pan lightly with nonstick cooking spray. Line the long side of the pan with a parchment paper “sling” and spray lightly with nonstick cooking spray again.
- 2
In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon until evenly combined. Set aside.
- 3
In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment or beaters, beat the eggs and granulated sugar on medium speed until pale and creamy, about 2 minutes.
- 4
With the mixer on low, gradually add the melted butter followed by the milk and vanilla, and mix just until evenly combined.
- 5
Add the flour, salt, and baking powder to the batter and mix on low speed until evenly combined.
- 6
Add the apples to the batter and fold with a rubber spatula until evenly incorporated.
- 7
Spoon about ⅔ of the batter into the prepared pan. Sprinkle about ⅔ of the brown sugar-cinnamon mixture on top of the batter. Spoon the remaining batter over top, followed by the remaining brown sugar-cinnamon mixture. Using a butter knife, swirl the layers by making a zig-zag motion through the batter once in each direction (don't overdo it!).
- 8
Bake for about 50 minutes, until the bread is golden brown and a cake tester or toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the bread cool on a rack for about 30 minutes, then use the parchment sling to lift the bread out of the pan and onto the rack. Let cool completely before slicing, a few hours or overnight. Store loosely covered with aluminum foil on the countertop for up to 4 days.
Cinnamon Swirl Apple Bread
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About this Recipe
Imagine a cozy morning, the aroma of warm apples and cinnamon filling your kitchen. This Cinnamon Swirl Apple Bread delivers just that—a truly lovely loaf with a generous swirl and a crisp, sugary top, perfect for a comforting start to your day or a delightful afternoon treat.
What truly sets this apple bread apart is its thoughtful construction: a sweet, aromatic cinnamon swirl woven throughout the moist crumb, complemented by a delightful crisp sugared top. The inclusion of finely diced tart baking apples ensures a balanced flavor, adding bursts of natural sweetness and a pleasant texture that elevates every slice.
With each bite, you'll experience a comforting warmth from the rich ground cinnamon and vanilla extract, intertwined with the tender texture of the apples. The bread itself is wonderfully moist and tender, while the sugared top adds a satisfying, subtle crunch. It's a comforting bake, creating an inviting aroma that promises a delicious homemade treat.
Customization & Variations
While Granny Smith apples are preferred for their tartness and firm texture, you can experiment with other firm, tart baking apples to achieve a similar balance of flavor in your loaf. The key is to select an apple that holds its shape well during baking and offers a bright counterpoint to the sweet cinnamon.
This Cinnamon Swirl Apple Bread is perfect for a leisurely breakfast, an afternoon snack with coffee or tea, or even a simple dessert. Its beautiful swirl and golden-brown crust make it a welcome addition to any gathering or a delightful treat for yourself.