Dessert

Cinnamon Swirl Apple Bread Recipe

ByElla Hart November 25, 2025November 25, 2025

Introduction

Savor the warm flavors of fall with this delicious Cinnamon Swirl Apple Bread. This moist and tender loaf is filled with fresh apples and swirls of cinnamon sugar, making it perfect for breakfast or a cozy snack. It’s simple to make and guaranteed to fill your kitchen with delightful aromas.

A close-up image of a slice of cinnamon apple cake showing three thick layers of light golden cake with swirls of dark brown cinnamon and caramelized apple pieces inside. The cake top is a shiny golden brown with small, soft apple slices embedded and a dusting of powdered sugar. The slice sits on a white ornate plate, placed on a white marbled surface. The texture of the cake looks soft and moist with a slightly crisp crust. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup diced apples (peeled)
1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
Step 2: In a bowl, mix the flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon until well combined.
Step 3: In another bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Step 4: Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, mixing thoroughly.
Step 5: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
Step 6: Fold in the diced apples and nuts, if using, gently to distribute evenly.
Step 7: In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and cinnamon for the swirl.
Step 8: Pour half of the batter into the greased loaf pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture over the batter. Top with the remaining batter, then sprinkle the rest of the cinnamon sugar mixture on top.
Step 9: Bake for 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 10: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Tips & Variations

For extra moisture, toss the diced apples in a little lemon juice before adding to prevent browning and add brightness.
Swap out the nuts for chopped pecans or walnuts, or omit them if you prefer a nut-free bread.
Try adding a handful of raisins or dried cranberries for a different texture and flavor.
Use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar in the batter for a deeper caramel flavor.
Make mini loaves using a muffin tin for individual servings, adjusting baking time to about 20-25 minutes.

Storage

Store the apple bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To keep it longer, wrap it well and refrigerate for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat slices gently in the microwave or toast to restore moisture and warmth.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up of a single slice of cinnamon swirl bread with three visible layers. The base layer is a light golden brown, soft bread with a slightly crumbly texture. Above it, there is a thick swirl of cinnamon that is dark brown and glossy, mixed with melted butter that creates a shiny, smooth look. The swirl is intertwined within the bread, giving a marbled effect, and there is a light dusting of white powdered sugar over the top layer. The slice is placed on a white ornate plate and the background is a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen apples for this recipe?

Yes, but be sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture that can make the bread soggy.

How can I tell when the bread is fully baked?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the bread is done.

Ella Hart