Our Homemade Apple Cinnamon Swirl Loaf

There’s nothing quite as inviting as the warm aroma of freshly baked apple cinnamon swirl loaf wafting through the kitchen. This recipe combines the sweet, tart flavors of apples with the comforting spice of cinnamon, creating a moist and flavorful loaf perfect for any occasion.

Table of Contents

1. Ingredients
2. Equipment Needed
3. Step-by-Step Instructions
   • Preparing the Batter
   • Making the Cinnamon Swirl
   • Baking the Loaf
4. Tips for the Perfect Loaf
5. Serving Suggestions
6. Storage and Freezing Tips

Ingredients

For the Loaf:

• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup (120ml) milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 large apple, peeled, cored, and finely diced (use Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for best results)

For the Cinnamon Swirl:

• 1/3 cup (70g) brown sugar
• 1 tbsp ground cinnamon

Optional Glaze:

• 1/2 cup (60g) powdered sugar
• 1-2 tbsp milk or cream

Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls
• Hand or stand mixer
• 9×5-inch loaf pan
• Parchment paper
• Whisk
• Spatula
• Knife for slicing apples

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Batter

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your loaf pan with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy using a hand or stand mixer.
4. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients.
6. Gently fold in the diced apple until evenly distributed.

Making the Cinnamon Swirl

1. In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and cinnamon.
2. Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth it out.
3. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the batter.
4. Add the remaining batter on top, smooth it out, and sprinkle the rest of the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
5. Use a knife to gently swirl the cinnamon-sugar layer into the batter.

Baking the Loaf

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
2. Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips for the Perfect Loaf

• Use room-temperature ingredients for a smoother batter.
• Do not overmix the batter; it can lead to a dense loaf.
• For an extra crunch, add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey.
• Pair with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy snack.

Storage and Freezing Tips

• Store the loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• To freeze, wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

With its tender crumb and delightful cinnamon swirl, this homemade apple cinnamon swirl loaf is a must-try recipe. Whether you’re enjoying it as a breakfast treat or an afternoon snack, it’s sure to impress!