Apple Fritter Bread

Craving the comforting flavors of fall? Apple Fritter Bread is a must-try treat that brings together the cozy warmth of cinnamon-spiced apples and the rich, buttery goodness of homemade quick bread.

Inspired by the classic apple fritter donut, this loaf is packed with layers of caramelized apples, cinnamon, and a sweet vanilla glaze. It’s the perfect companion for your morning coffee or an indulgent afternoon snack.

Ingredients List

Creating a moist and flavorful Apple Fritter Bread requires a few key ingredients to achieve the perfect balance of taste and texture. Here’s what you’ll need for each component of this delicious bread.

Apple Cinnamon Filling

To create the signature apple-cinnamon swirl, you’ll need:

• 1/3 cup light brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon
• 2 medium apples, diced

Cinnamon Bread Batter

For a soft and tender loaf, gather these ingredients:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 2/3 cup light brown sugar
• 2 eggs (room temperature)
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/2 cup milk

Sweet Glaze

A simple glaze adds the final touch of sweetness:

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

Required Kitchen Tools

Having the right tools on hand will make the baking process smooth and enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer – Helps cream the butter and sugar for a light, fluffy texture.
2. Mixing Bowls – For combining the apple filling, dry ingredients, and wet ingredients separately.
3. 9×5-Inch Loaf Pan – The perfect size for baking this moist bread.
4. Whisk and Spatula – Essential for mixing and folding ingredients without overworking the batter.
5. Wire Rack – Allows the bread to cool properly before glazing.

Preparing the Batter

A perfectly moist and flavorful Apple Fritter Bread starts with a well-prepared batter. Follow these steps for a soft, tender loaf.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with nonstick cooking spray or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Make the Apple Cinnamon Filling

In a medium bowl, combine 1/3 cup light brown sugar, 2 teaspoons cinnamon, and diced apples. Toss well to coat the apples in the cinnamon-sugar mixture and set aside. This step helps the apples caramelize beautifully while baking.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat 1/2 cup unsalted butter and 2/3 cup light brown sugar together for 2-3 minutes, or until the mixture is light and fluffy. Creaming the butter and sugar properly ensures a soft and airy texture.

Step 4: Add the Eggs and Vanilla

Add 2 eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in 2 teaspoons vanilla extract. The eggs provide structure, while vanilla enhances the overall flavor.

Step 5: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg

These ingredients ensure a well-balanced, fluffy texture.

Step 6: Combine the Batter

On low speed, gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with 1/2 cup milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Overmixing can make the bread dense, so be gentle!

Layering and Baking the Bread

Now that your batter and apple cinnamon filling are ready, it’s time to assemble and bake your Apple Fritter Bread to perfection.

Step 1: Assemble the Layers

1. First Layer – Batter: Pour half of the prepared batter into the greased 9×5-inch loaf pan and spread it evenly.
2. Second Layer – Apple Mixture: Sprinkle half of the apple cinnamon filling over the batter, ensuring an even distribution.
3. Third Layer – Batter: Pour the remaining half of the batter over the apples and spread gently with a spatula.
4. Fourth Layer – Apple Mixture: Top with the remaining apple mixture, pressing it lightly into the batter for even baking.

Step 2: Bake the Bread

• Place the loaf pan in the preheated 350°F (175°C) oven.
• Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean (a few moist crumbs are okay).
• If the top is browning too quickly, loosely cover the bread with aluminum foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.

Step 3: Cooling the Bread

• Let the bread cool in the pan for 30 minutes before carefully transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This allows the flavors to set and makes slicing easier.

Finishing Touches: Adding the Glaze

A drizzle of sweet glaze is the perfect finishing touch for this Apple Fritter Bread, adding a hint of vanilla sweetness that complements the warm cinnamon and apple flavors.

Step 1: Prepare the Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together:

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 to 1 1/2 tablespoons milk (adjust for desired consistency)

Mix until smooth. The glaze should be thick yet pourable—if it’s too thick, add a few more drops of milk; if it’s too thin, add more powdered sugar.

Step 2: Drizzle the Glaze

Once the bread is completely cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top using a spoon or piping bag. Let it set for a few minutes before slicing.

Serving and Storage

Best Ways to Serve Apple Fritter Bread

Enjoy a warm slice of Apple Fritter Bread with:

• A hot cup of coffee or tea for a cozy morning treat.
• A scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
• A dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of sweetness.

How to Store Apple Fritter Bread

To keep your bread fresh and delicious:

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Refrigerator: Keep in a sealed container for up to 5 days.
• Freezer: Wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Conclusion

Apple Fritter Bread is the perfect homemade treat for any occasion, combining the comforting flavors of cinnamon-spiced apples with the soft, buttery texture of a classic loaf.

If enjoyed fresh out of the oven, drizzled with glaze, or stored for later, this delicious bread is sure to become a family favorite. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake a loaf of irresistible apple goodness!