A Homemade Apple Cinnamon Swirl Loaf is a delightful, aromatic treat that combines the sweetness of apples with the warmth of cinnamon in a soft, fluffy loaf. It’s perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack! Here’s an easy recipe to make your own at home:
Homemade Apple Cinnamon Swirl Loaf
Ingredients:
For the Apple Cinnamon Swirl:
- 2 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are great options)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1 tbsp butter (optional, for a richer swirl)
For the Loaf:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup buttermilk (or substitute with milk + 1 tsp lemon juice, let it sit for 5 minutes)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional, but adds a nice crunch)
For the Topping (optional):
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
Directions:
1. Prepare the Apple Cinnamon Swirl:
- Peel, core, and chop the apples into small pieces.
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat (if using). Add the apples, lemon juice, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes, until the apples soften slightly and the mixture becomes syrupy. Set aside to cool.
2. Make the Loaf Batter:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy (about 3-5 minutes).
- Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined—do not overmix.
3. Assemble the Loaf:
- Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it out evenly.
- Spoon half of the apple cinnamon mixture over the batter and gently swirl it with a knife or skewer.
- Add the remaining batter on top, spreading it out evenly. Then add the remaining apple cinnamon mixture and swirl again with a knife.
- (Optional) For a crunchy topping, mix the cinnamon and sugar together and sprinkle it evenly over the top of the loaf.
4. Bake the Loaf:
- Bake the loaf for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean (a few moist crumbs are fine, but no wet batter). If the top starts to brown too quickly, you can cover it loosely with aluminum foil for the last 10-15 minutes.
5. Cool and Serve:
- Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Tips:
- For extra flavor: Add a handful of raisins or dried cranberries to the batter for a bit of tartness.
- Texture boost: Swirl in some cream cheese frosting or caramel sauce for an extra indulgent touch.
- Storage: The loaf will keep for about 3-4 days at room temperature in an airtight container. You can also freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 3 months.
This Apple Cinnamon Swirl Loaf is the perfect combination of spiced, sweet, and comforting—great for cozy mornings or as a treat for any occasion. The apple cinnamon filling keeps the loaf moist and adds a fun twist to the traditional quick bread. Enjoy!