Name: Cinnamon Swirl Apple Bread
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-486277H4S
Total time: PT-486277H4S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups chopped apples (Pink Lady, Gala, or Honeycrisp), peeled; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup melted butter or neutral oil; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/2 cup brown sugar (for swirl); 1 tbsp ground cinnamon; Optional: pinch of nutmeg, cloves, or apple pie spice

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I created this Cinnamon Swirl Apple Bread to be a cozy, fall-inspired loaf loaded with tender apples and a sweet cinnamon swirl.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this bread is moist and comforting, blending warm cinnamon flavors with juicy apple chunks. It’s perfect for breakfast, as a snack, or even dessert—ideal for sharing or savoring all for myself.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

apples (I use baking-friendly varieties like Pink Lady, Gala, or Honeycrisp), peeled and chopped
all-purpose flour
granulated sugar (sometimes I mix half white, half brown sugar)
melted butter (or neutral oil like canola)
2 large eggs
vanilla extract (I sometimes use vanilla bean paste for extra flavor)
baking powder
baking soda
pinch of salt
brown sugar (for the swirl)
ground cinnamon (plus optional nutmeg, cloves, or apple pie spice)

directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease and flour an 8×5-inch loaf pan (or line it with parchment).
In a bowl, whisk together brown sugar and cinnamon; set aside.
In a large bowl, whisk eggs and granulated sugar until combined. Whisk in melted butter and vanilla.
Stir in flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt just until combined, then fold in chopped apples.
Fill the pan halfway with batter, sprinkle with about ¾ of the cinnamon-sugar, top with remaining batter, and finish with the rest of the swirl. Use a knife or spatula to gently marble the swirl into the top.
Bake for 35–45 minutes, until golden and a toothpick comes out clean (tent with foil if browning too fast).
Cool completely before slicing and serving.

Servings and timing

This loaf makes about 8 servings. Prep time is around 10 minutes and bake time is 35–45 minutes.

Variations

I like to add raisins, dates, pecans, walnuts, or chocolate chips for extra texture and flavor.
Swapping unsweetened applesauce for butter or oil makes a denser loaf but works well in a pinch.
Lining the pan with parchment helps prevent sticking.

storage/reheating

I store leftover bread at room temperature in an airtight container or resealable bag for up to 5 days. To freeze, I wrap slices (or the whole loaf) in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze up to 2 months. Just thaw at room temperature.

FAQs

How long will the bread stay fresh?

I keep it in an airtight container at room temperature, and it stays fresh for up to 5 days.

Can I freeze it?

Absolutely. Once cooled, I wrap it tightly (slice or whole), freeze for up to 2 months, and thaw at room temperature.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes—I’ve doubled it before. I bake one loaf fresh and freeze the second to enjoy later or share.

Can I add spices like nutmeg?

Definitely! I often add nutmeg, cloves, or apple pie spice to the cinnamon swirl for extra warmth.

What types of apples work best?

I prefer Pink Lady, Gala, or Honeycrisp for baking—their texture and sweetness work beautifully.

Conclusion

I created this Cinnamon Swirl Apple Bread with warm cinnamon flavors and juicy apple chunks for the ultimate cozy treat. It’s easy to make, versatile, and perfect any time I crave something comforting. I hope it brings the same joy to your kitchen as it does to mine!