Looking for a delicious and comforting treat? This Country Apple Fritter Bread is the perfect combination of a soft, moist loaf filled with sweet, cinnamon-spiced apples and a crunchy, sugary topping. It’s like having apple fritters in bread form! This bread is ideal for breakfast, dessert, or a midday snack. The flavors are warm, sweet, and incredibly comforting, making it the perfect treat to enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea.
Ingredients
For the Bread:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 1/2 cups peeled and diced apples (about 2 medium apples)
For the Cinnamon Sugar Swirl:
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
For the Topping:
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Swirl
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and ground cinnamon for the swirl. Set aside.
Step 3: Make the Bread Batter
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and then add the granulated sugar, vanilla extract, milk, and melted butter. Stir until well combined.
Step 4: Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a dense loaf. Gently fold in the diced apples.
Step 5: Layer the Batter and Cinnamon Sugar Swirl
Pour half of the bread batter into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the batter. Add the remaining bread batter on top and swirl the remaining cinnamon sugar mixture into the batter using a knife or skewer.
Step 6: Bake the Bread
Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The bread should be golden brown and slightly firm to the touch.
Step 7: Make the Topping
While the bread is baking, prepare the topping by mixing the granulated sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl.
Step 8: Add the Topping
Once the bread is done baking, remove it from the oven and immediately sprinkle the cinnamon sugar topping over the hot loaf. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
Slice the bread once it has cooled. Serve it as a delicious breakfast, dessert, or snack. This bread also freezes well, so you can enjoy it later when you’re craving something sweet!
Cooking Notes
- Apples: Use firm apples such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Gala. These types hold their shape better when baking.
- Swirling Tip: For the perfect swirl effect, don’t mix the cinnamon sugar completely into the batter. Instead, create layers and swirl gently to get pockets of flavor throughout the bread.
- Storage: Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze slices for up to 3 months—just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
Variations
- Add Nuts: For some added crunch, try folding in some chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter.
- Glaze: For an extra sweet touch, drizzle a simple glaze (powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla) over the top after the bread has cooled.
- Spices: Feel free to experiment with other spices, such as allspice or cloves, for a unique flavor profile.
- Use Brown Sugar: You can substitute granulated sugar with brown sugar for a deeper, molasses-like flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use other fruits in this recipe?
Yes! You can replace the apples with pears, peaches, or even berries. However, keep in mind that fruits with higher moisture content, like berries, may make the bread a bit more moist, so you might need to adjust the baking time.
Can I make this bread without eggs?
Yes, you can make this bread egg-free by substituting with flax eggs or other egg substitutes. Flax eggs are made by combining 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water, allowing it to sit for a few minutes to thicken.
Can I freeze this bread?
Yes, this bread freezes beautifully. Just let it cool completely, slice it, and wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Store in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, pop a slice in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or toast it.
How can I make this bread dairy-free?
To make this bread dairy-free, substitute the butter with a dairy-free butter alternative, and use a non-dairy milk like almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk.
This Country Apple Fritter Bread is the ultimate fall treat, combining the sweetness of apples with the perfect blend of cinnamon and sugar. With its tender crumb, delicious swirl, and crunchy topping, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert, this bread is irresistible. Try it today and enjoy a slice of comfort!
