A Moist, Spiced Loaf with Cinnamon-Sugar Layers and Fresh Apple Swirls
This Country Apple Fritter Bread is a cozy, spiced quick bread packed with tender apples, cinnamon sugar layers, and a buttery crumb that tastes like fall in every bite. Topped with a light powdered sugar glaze, it’s perfect for breakfast, afternoon tea, or as a sweet snack on the go.
A rustic apple dessert that’s soft inside and golden outside—like an apple fritter met a bundt cake!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- 🍎 Apple Perfection: Chunks of fresh apple bake into soft pockets of sweetness throughout the loaf.
- 🌿 Cinnamon Swirl Magic: Brown sugar and cinnamon layers add warm, bakery-style depth.
- 🧈 Buttery Richness: The base has a moist, melt-in-your-mouth texture from real butter.
- ⏱️ Quick & Easy: No yeast, no rolling—just mix, layer, and bake.
- 🎉 Great for Sharing: Perfect at family breakfasts, school events, or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients (Makes 1 loaf / 8–10 slices):
For the Bread:
- ⅓ cup (65g) light brown sugar (or dark for deeper flavor)
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon (plus extra for dusting if desired)
- 2 medium apples , peeled and chopped (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Gala work best)
- ⅔ cup + 2 tbsp (160g) granulated sugar (split between batter and apple toss)
- ½ cup (1 stick / 115g) unsalted butter , softened (or coconut oil for dairy-free)
- 2 large eggs , room temperature (or flax eggs for vegan option)
- 1½ tsp vanilla extract (pure for best flavor)
- 1½ cups (180g) all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend with xanthan gum)
- 1¾ tsp baking powder (for lift and rise)
- Pinch of salt (adjust if using salted butter)
- ½ cup to ⅔ cup milk (or almond/coconut milk for dairy-free – adjust for thickness)
For the Glaze:
- ½ cup (60g) powdered sugar (or confectioners’ sugar substitute)
- 1–3 tbsp milk or water (to thin the glaze)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prep Oven & Pan
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) .
Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with nonstick spray or butter—set aside.
Step 2: Mix Sugar & Apples
In a small bowl, combine:
- Brown sugar and cinnamon for topping
- In another bowl, toss chopped apples with 2 tbsp granulated sugar for juiciness.
Set both aside while making the batter.
Step 3: Cream Butter & Sugar
In a large bowl, beat:
- Softened butter and remaining sugar until pale and fluffy (2–3 minutes ).
Add eggs one at a time , beating well after each addition.
Stir in vanilla extract .
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk:
- Flour, baking powder, and salt .
Gradually add dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with milk (begin and end with dry ingredients).
Mix just until smooth—avoid overmixing to keep the crumb tender.
Step 5: Layer Like a Pro
Spoon half the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
Sprinkle half the cinnamon-sugar over the top.
Layer half the sugared apples over the batter.
Repeat layers: batter → cinnamon sugar → apples.
Smooth the top gently before baking.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 50–60 minutes , or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes , then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 7: Drizzle with Sweet Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk:
- Powdered sugar
- Milk (start with 1 tbsp and add more for drizzling consistency)
until smooth.
Drizzle glaze over the cooled bread.
Each bite brings together:
- Buttery, soft cake layers
- Warm, spicy cinnamon swirls
- Juicy, caramelized apple bites
- And that classic glazed finish
Tips for Success:
- 🍎 Use Firm Apples: Granny Smith or Honeycrisp hold shape best during baking.
- 🥣 Layer Smart: Don’t press down too hard—let batter do the work for even rising.
- 🧁 Glaze Hack: Add lemon zest or maple syrup to the glaze for extra flair.
- 🥟 Texture Tip: For a crispier crust, sprinkle coarse sugar or oats on top before final bake.
- ❄️ Make Ahead Magic: Wrap and refrigerate overnight—glaze just before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair with coffee, chai tea, or a glass of cold milk .
- Great with a dollop of whipped cream or Greek yogurt on the side.
- Ideal for brunch, lunch boxes, or late-night cravings .
Nutritional Information (per slice, makes 10 – approximate):
(With regular butter and milk – per serving)
- Calories: ~250 kcal
- Protein: ~3g
- Carbohydrates: ~35g
- Fat: ~12g
- Fiber: ~1g
- Sugar: ~20g
This Country Apple Fritter Bread proves that autumn flavors don’t need pies to shine. With its cinnamon-laced layers, soft apple chunks, and sweet glaze—it’s a must-bake for lovers of bold, comforting baked goods.
Additional Notes:
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour blend with xanthan gum.
- Vegan Swap: Replace butter with margarine, use flax eggs and plant-based milk.
- Storage Tip: Store wrapped in foil or plastic wrap for up to 3 days—keep in fridge for longer shelf life.
- Flavor Hack: Add ½ tsp nutmeg or allspice to the batter for deeper warmth.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Slice and freeze individually wrapped pieces for quick breakfast treats.
Pro Tip: For a caramel twist , drizzle with warm caramel sauce before glazing.
Serving Idea: Serve with cream cheese spread, honey, or toasted pecans on top.
History Fun: Apple fritters date back to early American kitchens—this version gives them a loaf-like upgrade that keeps the spirit alive.
