Apple Cinnamon Swirl Loaf
A cozy and delicious Apple Cinnamon Swirl Loaf combining fresh tart apples, warm cinnamon spice, and a tender moist crumb. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or a sweet homemade gift, this easy-to-make loaf fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas and offers a comforting, flavorful treat.
- Author: Elena
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10-20 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (8-10 slices) 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Fruit
- 2 cups fresh diced apples (such as Granny Smith)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon (for tossing apples)
- 1 tbsp brown sugar (for tossing apples)
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon (for batter)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup softened butter or oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup milk or yogurt
- Prepare the apples: Peel and dice the apples into small pieces for even distribution. Toss them lightly with 1 teaspoon of cinnamon and 1 tablespoon of brown sugar to enhance their natural sweetness and create the signature swirl effect.
- Mix the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Whisk these well to ensure an even rise and spice blend throughout the loaf.
- Cream the butter and sugar: Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat softened butter (or oil) and 1/2 cup brown sugar together until light and fluffy. This step builds a tender crumb and sweet base for your loaf batter.
- Add wet ingredients: Beat in the 2 eggs one at a time, then stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and 3/4 cup milk or yogurt. These ingredients add moisture and richness that keep each slice soft and flavorful.
- Combine wet and dry mixtures: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Avoid overmixing to maintain a soft texture in your finished Apple Cinnamon Swirl Loaf.
- Assemble the cinnamon swirl: Pour half the batter into a greased loaf pan, sprinkle half the cinnamon apple mixture over it, then add the remaining batter and top with the rest of the apples. Swirl gently with a knife to create a beautiful cinnamon ribbon throughout.
- Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 50 to 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the loaf cool before slicing to preserve its shape and flavor.
Notes
- Choose tart apples like Granny Smith for balanced sweetness and a fresh bite.
- Use room temperature ingredients for easier mixing and even baking.
- Do not overmix the batter to avoid a dense loaf.
- Grease your pan well to prevent sticking.
- Check for doneness starting at 50 minutes as ovens may vary.
- Store wrapped at room temperature for up to three days or freeze sliced.
- Reheat slices for 15-20 seconds in microwave or toaster oven for best texture and aroma.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Keywords: apple, cinnamon, loaf, breakfast, snack, homemade, swirl, moist, easy, cinnamon swirl loaf