Country Apple Fritter Bread is a sweet, moist, and flavorful quick bread filled with chunks of fresh apples and a cinnamon sugar swirl. The combination of tender apples, cinnamon, and a drizzle of glaze makes this bread taste just like an apple fritter from your favorite bakery. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack, this easy-to-make apple bread will fill your home with a comforting aroma that’s hard to resist.
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Tips for Perfect Apple Fritter Bread
- Recipe Variations
- FAQs
- Serving Suggestions
- Conclusion
Ingredients
For the Bread
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 3/4 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 cup whole milk
For the Apple Mixture
- 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and chopped
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
For the Cinnamon Swirl
- 1/3 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
For the Glaze
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tbsp milk
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Make the Apple Mixture: In a small bowl, mix the chopped apples with 1/3 cup granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon. Set aside.
- Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl: In another small bowl, mix the brown sugar and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and 2/3 cup granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Add Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, mixing until just combined.
- Assemble the Bread: Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Add half of the apple mixture on top, followed by half of the cinnamon sugar swirl. Gently swirl the cinnamon sugar into the batter with a knife. Repeat with the remaining batter, apples, and cinnamon sugar, swirling again.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the bread comes out clean. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and 2-3 tablespoons of milk until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bread.
- Serve: Slice and enjoy this sweet, cinnamon-filled bread for breakfast or as a dessert.
Tips for Perfect Apple Fritter Bread
- Use Fresh Apples: Fresh, firm apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji work best for this recipe to provide texture and prevent the bread from becoming too soft.
- Swirl Gently: When creating the cinnamon swirl, be gentle to avoid overmixing. You want distinct swirls of cinnamon throughout the bread.
- Don’t Overbake: Check the bread at the 50-minute mark to ensure it doesn’t overbake and become dry. Every oven is different, so keep an eye on it.
Recipe Variations
- Nutty Apple Fritter Bread: Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture.
- Apple Cranberry Bread: Add 1/4 cup of dried cranberries for a tart contrast to the sweetness of the apples.
- Caramel Drizzle: Replace the glaze with a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra decadent treat.
FAQs
Q: Can I use other types of apples?
A: Yes, you can use any variety of apples you like. Firmer apples are recommended to prevent the bread from becoming mushy.
Q: How do I store leftover apple fritter bread?
A: Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months—just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag.
Q: Can I make this bread without the glaze?
A: Absolutely! The glaze adds sweetness, but the bread is delicious on its own. Feel free to skip the glaze if you prefer a less sweet version.
Serving Suggestions
- With Coffee or Tea: Enjoy a slice of apple fritter bread with your morning coffee or afternoon tea.
- With Butter: Spread a little butter on a warm slice for an extra rich treat.
- For Dessert: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a comforting dessert.
Country Apple Fritter Bread is a wonderful combination of sweet apples, warm cinnamon, and a tender crumb that makes it a perfect treat for any time of day. This easy recipe brings the comforting taste of apple fritters into a simple loaf that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Whether it’s for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, this apple fritter bread is sure to become a family favorite. Try it today and savor the flavors of fall in every bite!