This Homemade Apple Cinnamon Swirl Loaf is a moist and flavorful quick bread packed with warm cinnamon spice and juicy apple chunks. It features a delicious cinnamon-sugar swirl in every slice, making it the perfect fall-inspired treat for breakfast, dessert, or a cozy afternoon snack. With simple ingredients and an easy-to-follow process, this loaf is a must-try for apple lovers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ Moist and tender – Thanks to fresh apples and sour cream for extra richness.
✔ Delicious cinnamon swirl – Adds a warm, sweet flavor to every bite.
✔ Easy to make – No yeast or complicated steps required.
✔ Perfect for any time of day – Enjoy as a breakfast treat, snack, or dessert.

Ingredients

For the Apple Cinnamon Bread:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup sour cream or buttermilk
• 1 ½ cups peeled and finely chopped apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)

For the Cinnamon Swirl:

• ⅓ cup brown sugar
• 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon

For the Optional Glaze:

• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 1-2 tablespoons milk or heavy cream
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven & Prepare the Loaf Pan

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Make the Cinnamon Swirl

3. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar and cinnamon. Set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Batter

4. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
5. In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
6. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
7. Mix in the sour cream (or buttermilk) until smooth.
8. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
9. Fold in the chopped apples gently.

Step 4: Assemble the Loaf

10. Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
11. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the batter.
12. Add the remaining batter, then sprinkle the rest of the cinnamon-sugar mixture on top.
13. Use a knife or toothpick to gently swirl the cinnamon sugar into the batter.

Step 5: Bake the Loaf

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

Step 6: Prepare the Optional Glaze

16. In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
17. Drizzle over the cooled loaf before slicing.

Serving Suggestions

🍏 Enjoy warm with butter or cream cheese.
🍎 Pair with coffee, tea, or warm apple cider.
🍏 Serve as dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Storage & Freezing

✔ Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
✔ Refrigerate: Keep in the fridge for up to 5 days.
✔ Freeze: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil; freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Tips & Variations

✔ Use Different Apples: Granny Smith adds tartness, while Honeycrisp or Fuji bring extra sweetness.
✔ Add Nuts: Stir in ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture.
✔ Make It Healthier: Substitute ½ cup of flour with whole wheat flour and slightly reduce sugar.
✔ Turn into Muffins: Pour batter into a muffin tin and bake at 350°F for 18-22 minutes

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use applesauce instead of butter?

Yes! Replace half of the butter with applesauce for a lighter version.

How do I prevent my loaf from becoming dry?

Measure flour correctly (spoon and level method) and avoid overmixing the batter.

Can I add a streusel topping?

Absolutely! Combine ¼ cup flour, 2 tablespoons butter, and 2 tablespoons brown sugar for a crunchy topping.

Final Thoughts

This Homemade Apple Cinnamon Swirl Loaf is a delicious, cozy, and easy-to-make treat that’s packed with fall flavors. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, as an afternoon snack, or for dessert, this loaf will quickly become a family favorite. Try it today and enjoy every warm, spiced bite!

Let me know if you’d like any modifications to the recipe