Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1-1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1-1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (1 stick)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
Apple Mixture
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1-1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 large apple, peeled, cored, and chopped into small pieces
Cinnamon Sugar Topping
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Glaze
- 3/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons water
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8.5 x 4.5 inch loaf pan to prevent sticking.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside for later.
- Cream butter and sugar: Using an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract on medium-high speed until the mixture is smooth and pale, about 3 to 4 minutes. Scrape down the bowl sides as needed.
- Add eggs: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients: With the mixer on low, gradually add half of the flour mixture alternating with half of the milk. Then add the remaining flour and milk, mixing until just combined.
- Prepare apple mixture: In a separate bowl, mix the chopped apples with light brown sugar and ground cinnamon. Set aside.
- Prepare cinnamon sugar topping: In a small bowl, combine brown sugar and cinnamon. Set aside for sprinkling on top later.
- Layer batter and apple mixture: Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Spoon half of the apple mixture over the batter. Lightly swirl the mixture into the batter gently with a knife or skewer, being careful not to over-mix—the goal is a distinct swirl.
- Add remaining layers: Pour the remaining batter over the apple layer, then add the remaining apple mixture on top. Again, swirl lightly with a knife or skewer in multiple directions.
- Top with cinnamon sugar: Sprinkle the prepared brown sugar and cinnamon mixture evenly over the top of the loaf.
- Bake the bread: Bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached due to the apples.
- Make the glaze: While the bread cools in the pan for 15 to 20 minutes, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar, cinnamon, and water in a small bowl to make the glaze.
- Glaze and cool: Remove the bread from the pan and transfer it onto a wire rack. Drizzle the cinnamon glaze evenly over the warm bread. Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Use a tart but crisp apple variety like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for best texture and flavor.
- Do not over-swirl the batter and apple mixture to keep a beautiful distinct swirl pattern with a thick layer of apples.
- Ensure butter is softened to room temperature for easy creaming and better texture.
- Make sure toothpick tests clean around the center where apples are to ensure it is fully baked.
- Store leftover bread wrapped at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- Bring to room temperature or warm before serving for best taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American