Apple Cinnamon Swirl Loaf

Every great recipe begins with quality ingredients, and the Cinnamon-Infused Apple Delight Loaf is no exception. Let’s explore the key components that make this loaf exceptional, ensuring that you understand their roles and how they contribute to the final product.

Experience the cozy aroma of freshly baked bread with our Cinnamon-Infused Apple Delight Loaf. This recipe combines the sweetness of apples and warm spices, making it perfect for gatherings or a comforting afternoon snack. Learn about essential ingredients and techniques that make this loaf a standout, from the tender crumb to the delightful cinnamon swirl. Get ready to bake something truly special that brings warmth and joy to every slice.

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Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 tsp baking powder

1/2 tsp baking soda

1 tsp ground cinnamon

1/4 tsp ground nutmeg

1/2 tsp salt

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature

1 cup granulated sugar

2 large eggs

1 tsp pure vanilla extract

1/2 cup buttermilk (or regular milk mixed with 1/2 tsp vinegar)

2 cups apples, peeled and diced (approximately 2 medium apples)

1/4 cup brown sugar, packed

1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (for swirling)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9x5 inch loaf pan by greasing it with butter or non-stick spray. For easier release, consider lining the bottom with parchment paper.

Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, 1 tsp of ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. Set this mixture aside as you prepare the wet ingredients.

Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and granulated sugar. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 3-5 minutes.

Add Eggs and Vanilla: Incorporate the eggs one at a time into the creamed mixture, ensuring each egg is fully mixed in before adding the next. Afterward, blend in the vanilla extract for added flavor.

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the butter-sugar-egg mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix gently with a spatula until just combined, being careful not to overmix the batter.

Prepare Apples: Fold the diced apples into the batter gently, ensuring they are evenly distributed without breaking them down into mush.

Make the Cinnamon Swirl: In a small bowl, whisk together the packed brown sugar and 1/2 tsp of ground cinnamon. This will give your loaf a delicious cinnamon swirl.

Layer the Batter: Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture over this layer. Add the remaining batter on top, smoothing it out, and finish by sprinkling the rest of the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the surface.

Swirl the Cinnamon Sugar: Using a knife or skewer, gently swirl through the batter to create a marbled effect. Take care not to over-mix; you want to maintain that lovely swirl pattern.

Bake the Loaf: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 55-65 minutes. You'll know it's done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve: After baking, remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. Then, carefully transfer the loaf to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, slice and serve this delightful apple cinnamon loaf to enjoy a warm, comforting treat!

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes | Servings: 8

- Presentation Tips: For a beautiful presentation, serve slices on a wooden board, dusted lightly with powdered sugar, and garnish with thin apple slices or a sprinkle of fresh cinnamon for added flair.