Homemade Apple Cinnamon Swirl Loaf

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.
3. Cream together softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy (2-3 minutes).
4. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well. Stir in vanilla.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, alternating with milk, beginning and ending with flour. Mix until just combined.
6. Gently fold in diced apples.

Step 2: Make the Cinnamon Swirl

1. Mix together sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl.

Step 3: Assemble the Loaf

1. Pour half the batter into the pan and spread evenly.
2. Sprinkle half the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the batter.
3. Add remaining batter, spread, and sprinkle with remaining cinnamon-sugar.
4. Gently swirl the cinnamon-sugar into the batter with a knife.

Step 4: Bake

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

Cooking Notes

• Apple Choice: Use firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Use room temperature butter and eggs for best results.
• Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer.

Variations

Apple Pecan Swirl Loaf

• Add 1/2 cup chopped pecans to the cinnamon-sugar mixture.

Glazed Apple Cinnamon Loaf

• Drizzle cooled loaf with a glaze of 1/2 cup powdered sugar and 1-2 tablespoons milk.

Healthier Version

• Replace half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour and use unsweetened applesauce in place of half the butter.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Use Other Fruits Instead of Apples?

Yes! Pears or peaches work well. Use firm fruits, diced small.

Can I Freeze This Loaf?

Yes! Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator or at room temperature.

How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?

Use a gluten-free flour blend with xanthan gum and ensure all ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I Add a Streusel Topping?

Absolutely! Mix 1/4 cup flour, 1/4 cup brown sugar, 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon, and 2 tablespoons cold butter until crumbly, then sprinkle on top before baking.

Conclusion

This Homemade Apple Cinnamon Swirl Loaf is a delicious treat for any time of day! Enjoy the warm spices, sweet apples, and moist crumb. Share it with loved ones – it’s sure to be a hit!