Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Prep
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: Make the Batter
Whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon in a medium bowl. Set aside.
In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes). Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Gently fold in the chopped apples.
Step 3: Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl
In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and cinnamon.
Step 4: Layer & Swirl
Pour half the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Sprinkle the cinnamon swirl mixture over the batter. Pour the remaining batter on top and spread evenly. Gently swirl the batter with a knife to create a marbled effect. Don’t over-swirl!
Step 5: Bake
Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top browns too quickly, loosely cover with foil.
Step 6: Cool & Glaze (Optional)
Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. For the glaze, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled loaf.
Cook’s Notes
- Apples: Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples work well.
- Buttermilk Substitute: Add 1/2 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar to 1/2 cup milk; let sit 5 minutes.
- Swirling: Be gentle to maintain the marbled pattern.
Variations
Nutty Apple Cinnamon Swirl
Add 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter.
Caramel Apple Swirl
Drizzle caramel sauce over the batter before baking.
Maple Glazed Apple Loaf
Use maple syrup instead of vanilla in the glaze.
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy with coffee or tea for breakfast.
- Serve with vanilla ice cream for dessert.
- A perfect mid-afternoon snack with milk.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make This Ahead?
Yes! Make it 1-2 days in advance. Store in an airtight container at room temperature.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Can I Freeze It?
Yes! Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
Enjoy your delicious Homemade Apple Cinnamon Swirl Loaf! Let us know how it turns out in the comments!
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