Homemade Apple Cinnamon Swirl Loaf

The true magic of this Apple Cinnamon Swirl Loaf lies in the delightful contrast between its soft, tender crumb and the rich, flavorful swirl of cinnamon and apples that runs through its center. Each slice unveils a mesmerizing pattern of sweet apple filling interwoven with a spicy cinnamon ribbon, creating a symphony of fall flavors in every bite. This loaf not only fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma as it bakes but also delivers a comforting taste that makes it perfect for any time of the day. Whether enjoyed warm with a cup of coffee or served as a cozy dessert, this loaf is bound to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

Ingredients:

For the Apple Filling:

• 2 large apples, peeled, cored, and diced
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

For the Cinnamon Swirl:

• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

For the Loaf:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Glaze (optional):

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1-2 tablespoons milk

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Apple Filling:
   • In a medium saucepan, combine the diced apples, sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are soft and the mixture is slightly thickened. Remove from heat and let it cool while you prepare the loaf batter.
2. Make the Cinnamon Swirl:
   • In a small bowl, mix together the sugar and cinnamon for the swirl. Set aside.
3. Prepare the Loaf Batter:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
   • In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
   • Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
4. Assemble the Loaf:
   • Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it out evenly.
   • Sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the batter, then spoon half of the apple filling over the top.
   • Add the remaining batter on top, spreading it out evenly, then sprinkle with the rest of the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Spoon the remaining apple filling over the batter.
   • Use a knife or a skewer to swirl the batter by making a few figure-eight motions through the mixture.
5. Bake the Loaf:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top is browning too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil halfway through baking.
   • Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
6. Prepare the Glaze (Optional):
   • If you’d like to add a glaze, mix together the powdered sugar and milk until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled loaf.
7. Serve:
   • Slice the loaf and enjoy it as a delicious breakfast treat, afternoon snack, or dessert. The combination of soft, sweet apples, and cinnamon makes this loaf incredibly comforting and flavorful.