Indulge in the magic of Apple Fritter Bread, a cozy autumn treat with cinnamon, apples, and brown sugar. Bake this comforting delight today!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Apple Fritter Bread is all about balance—the rich, warmly spiced batter plays perfectly against the tart-sweet apples and that irresistible ribbon of cinnamon sugar. Each ingredient isn’t just a line on a list; it has a role in making every bite memorable. Here’s what you’ll need, plus a tip for getting the most out of each one:
- Nonstick cooking spray: Ensures your loaf slides out perfectly, so not a crumb is left behind.
- Light brown sugar: Adds a caramel-like depth and creates a deliciously sticky swirl inside the bread.
- Ground cinnamon: Brings cozy warmth and the signature apple fritter vibe you know and love.
- Apples (any kind), peeled and chopped: Choose a mix of tart and sweet apples for incredible flavor and moistness.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens both the batter and the apple filling, keeping it perfectly balanced.
- Butter, softened: Gives the loaf richness and tenderness—let it soften for easy creaming.
- Large eggs: Bind the ingredients and add extra moisture and structure.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors and lends a bakery-fresh aroma.
- All-purpose flour: The essential foundation for structure—spoon into your measuring cup for accuracy.
- Baking powder: Helps the loaf rise high and stay fluffy.
- Milk or almond milk: Adds moisture; use your favorite for a touch of personal flair.
- Powdered sugar: Whisks up into a dreamy glaze that clings beautifully to the bread’s nooks and crannies.
- Salt to taste: Just a pinch brings all the sweet flavors into perfect harmony.
How to Make Apple Fritter Bread
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Preheat
Start things off right by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously coat a 9×5-inch loaf pan with nonstick spray. This simple step sets you up for slicing success and ensures the bread bakes up golden all around.
Step 2: Mix the Cinnamon Sugar and Prep the Apples
In a small bowl, stir together your light brown sugar and ground cinnamon—the magic blend that creates those delicious swirls. Separately, toss your chopped apples in two tablespoons of granulated sugar. This not only sweetens the apples slightly but helps draw out their juices, making them extra tender in the finished loaf.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
Grab a large mixing bowl and beat together the softened butter and remaining granulated sugar until the mixture is light, fluffy, and a little irresistible. Love at first whip! Next, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the splash of vanilla—this is where your kitchen will start to smell amazing.
Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. This extra step ensures an even rise and prevents clumps—worth every second.
Step 5: Make the Batter
With your mixer on low, add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture in three parts, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry mixture, mixing gently until just combined. Over-mixing can make your loaf tough, so stop as soon as it comes together—a few streaks are okay.
Step 6: Layer and Assemble
Pour half the batter into your prepared pan, smoothing it gently. Sprinkle over half the cinnamon sugar mixture, then top with half the sugared apples. Repeat with the rest of the batter, cinnamon sugar, and apples for a beautiful layered effect—every slice will look and taste special.
Step 7: Bake!
Pop the loaf into your preheated oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. You’re looking for a deep golden top and a toothpick that comes out mostly clean, with just a few moist crumbs. Be patient—your kitchen will smell heavenly while you wait!
Step 8: Glaze and Cool
Let the bread rest in the pan for about 10 minutes, then gently remove it to a wire rack to finish cooling. Stir the powdered sugar with a splash of milk until you have a drizzly glaze, then pour it all over the cooled Apple Fritter Bread. Watching it trickle into the crevices is practically therapeutic.
Step 9: Slice and Serve
Once the glaze has set, use a serrated knife to cut thick, bakery-style slices. Each piece should reveal those gorgeous apple and cinnamon ribbons—time to dig in!
How to Serve Apple Fritter Bread
Garnishes
A slice is already a showstopper, but a sprinkle of extra cinnamon on top, a dusting of powdered sugar, or even a handful of toasted chopped pecans can dress up your Apple Fritter Bread for guests or special occasions. If you really want to go the extra mile, add a little dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Side Dishes
Pair your loaf with a mug of hot coffee or chai for an ultra-comforting breakfast or snack. For a brunch spread, surround it with bowls of fresh berries, creamy Greek yogurt, or sharp, nutty cheese—the sweetness of the bread plays well with a variety of tasty sides.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve Apple Fritter Bread warm, nestled in a rustic basket lined with linen for a country-style look. For dessert, plate thick slices with caramel sauce and fresh apple slices. Or, cut cubes and turn them into bread pudding or French toast for something truly unforgettable. However you serve it, you can’t go wrong!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Apple Fritter Bread moist and fresh, wrap cooled slices tightly in plastic wrap or store the whole loaf in an airtight container. Leftovers will stay tender at room temperature for up to three days, making this bread a handy grab-and-go treat all week.
Freezing
Want to stash some for later? Apple Fritter Bread freezes beautifully! Wrap individual slices or the entire loaf in a double layer of plastic wrap and foil, then pop it in the freezer. It’ll keep its flavor and texture for up to two months—just thaw overnight before enjoying.
Reheating
To recapture that just-baked magic, warm slices of Apple Fritter Bread in the microwave for about 15 seconds, or in a 300°F oven until heated through. It’s especially delightful when served warm, as the apples and cinnamon become wonderfully fragrant all over again.
FAQs
What type of apples should I use in Apple Fritter Bread?
Go with your favorites—Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are classics for their tartness and firmness, but Gala or Fuji work wonderfully too. A mix of two types adds extra complexity to each bite.
Can I make this bread gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute your favorite 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the all-purpose flour, and check that your baking powder is gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so everyone can enjoy a slice.
How do I know when my bread is done baking?
The top will be golden brown, and a toothpick or skewer inserted into the center should come out with just a few moist crumbs (not raw batter). Oven times vary, so start checking at 50 minutes just to be safe.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes! If you’d like two loaves (and trust me, you’ll want that second one), simply double the ingredients and use two pans. You can even freeze an extra loaf for later.
How do I get the perfect glaze?
For the ideal drizzle, start with the powdered sugar and gradually whisk in milk until the glaze is thick yet pourable. Add a splash at a time—a little milk goes a long way!
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about homemade Apple Fritter Bread—the way the cinnamon, apples, and butter come together makes every bite a warm hug. If you’re looking to sweeten up your day or impress at brunch, you can’t go wrong with this foolproof recipe. Go ahead, give it a try, and let your kitchen fill with the coziest aromas!
More Sweet Bakes and Cozy Treats
If you loved the cinnamon-sugar swirl of this Apple Fritter Bread, don’t miss our moist and flavorful Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread for a dreamy breakfast treat. For a more decadent dessert, try the Caramel Apple Poke Cake, loaded with gooey filling and fall flavors. The Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Loaf is perfect when you’re craving something seasonal and creamy. Our Easy Apple Crisp with Oatmeal Topping is another rustic favorite. And if you’re after a more bite-sized option, the Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins deliver on flavor and convenience.
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Apple Fritter Bread Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 10–20 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (about 8 slices)
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious Apple Fritter Bread is packed with cinnamon-spiced apples, swirled with brown sugar, and topped with a sweet vanilla glaze.
Ingredients
Nonstick cooking spray – For easy release.
Light brown sugar – Adds caramel-like depth.
Ground cinnamon – Classic warm spice.
Chopped apples – Peeled; sweet-tart mix works best.
Granulated sugar – Sweetens batter and filling.
Softened butter – Adds richness and moisture.
Large eggs – For structure and moisture.
Vanilla extract – Boosts flavor and aroma.
All-purpose flour – Main structure; measure carefully.
Baking powder – Lifts the loaf.
Milk or almond milk – Adds moisture.
Powdered sugar – For the glaze.
Salt – A pinch to balance sweetness.
Instructions
- Prep & Preheat: Heat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9×5″ loaf pan with nonstick spray.
- Cinnamon Sugar & Apples: Mix brown sugar and cinnamon. Toss chopped apples with sugar.
- Cream Butter & Sugar: Beat butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs, then vanilla.
- Dry Mix: Whisk flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Make Batter: Alternate adding dry mix and milk to the butter mixture—don’t overmix.
- Layer It Up: Add half the batter, cinnamon sugar, apples—repeat.
- Bake: Bake 50–60 minutes until golden and a toothpick comes out mostly clean.
- Glaze: Cool 10 minutes, then drizzle with powdered sugar and milk glaze.
- Serve: Slice thick and enjoy the apple-cinnamon ribbons.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50–60 minutes
- Category: Sweet Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American