Imagine a warm, fragrant loaf that captures the essence of autumn with its tender apples and sweet cinnamon swirls. The Apple Cinnamon Swirl Loaf is a delightful treat that combines the moistness of a cake with the comforting flavors of apple fritters. This recipe is perfect for fall gatherings or cozy afternoons, offering a blend of traditional baking techniques with modern ease. The combination of Granny Smith apples, brown sugar, and cinnamon creates a delightful harmony of flavors that will leave your kitchen filled with the inviting aroma of freshly baked goods.
Ingredients
- for greasing the pan
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 3 cups Granny Smith apples, peeled and diced
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1 cup buttermilk
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare the Loaf Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9″ x 5″ loaf pan with butter and dust it with a mixture of brown sugar and cinnamon.
- Make the Swirl Mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar and cinnamon. Set aside.
- Prepare the Apple Mixture: Add the remaining brown sugar and cinnamon mixture to the diced apples and gently stir to combine.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the egg, buttermilk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract (if using).
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
- Fold in Apples: Gently fold in the apple mixture into the batter.
- Layer the Loaf: Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Top with half of the remaining apple mixture. Repeat this process, ending with the remaining batter on top.
- Create the Swirl: Use a butter knife to create a swirl pattern on top of the loaf.
- Bake the Loaf: Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the loaf browns too quickly, cover with foil for the last 10-15 minutes.
- Cool and Serve: Let the loaf cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving.
Top Tips
- Use the Right Pan Size: Ensure you use a 9″ x 5″ loaf pan to prevent overflowing.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter just until combined to maintain moisture.
- Adjust Baking Time: Keep an eye on the loaf as oven times may vary.
- Cool Completely: Allow the loaf to cool fully before slicing for best results.
- Experiment with Spices: Consider adding nutmeg or allspice for extra depth.
- Use Fresh Apples: Choose fresh, crisp apples for the best flavor.
Variations
- Nutmeg Addition: Add a pinch of nutmeg to the cinnamon sugar mixture for added warmth.
- Walnut Crunch: Fold in chopped walnuts into the batter for extra texture.
- Maple Syrup Glaze: Drizzle a maple syrup glaze over the cooled loaf for a sweet finish.
- Pecan Topping: Sprinkle chopped pecans on top before baking for a crunchy topping.
- Cranberry Twist: Add dried cranberries to the apple mixture for a fruity twist.
- Bourbon Infusion: Soak the apples in a little bourbon before adding them to the batter for a sophisticated flavor.
Nutritional Guide
| Servings | Calories | Fat | Carbohydrates | Protein |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8-10 | 350-400 | 15g | 45g | 5g |
Additional Nutritional Notes: This Apple Cinnamon Swirl Loaf is rich in carbohydrates, making it a satisfying treat. The apples provide a good amount of fiber, while the buttermilk adds a touch of protein. To reduce calories, consider using less sugar or substituting some of the oil with applesauce. This loaf is best served fresh, but it can be stored at room temperature for up to three days or frozen for longer preservation.
