Ah, a Warm Cinnamon Sugar Apple Loaf—perfect for cozy winter mornings or afternoon tea! Soft, slightly sweet, with tender apple pieces and that comforting cinnamon-sugar swirl. Here’s a recipe that nails the soft, fluffy texture:
Ingredients (1 loaf, 8–10 slices)
For the loaf:
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2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
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1 tsp baking powder
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½ tsp baking soda
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½ tsp salt
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1 tsp ground cinnamon
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½ tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
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½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened
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¾ cup (150 g) sugar
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2 large eggs
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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½ cup (120 ml) milk
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1 cup (150 g) peeled and finely chopped or grated apples
For the cinnamon-sugar swirl:
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3 tbsp sugar
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1 tsp cinnamon
Optional topping:
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Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
1. Preheat Oven:
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Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
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In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar:
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In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy (~2–3 minutes).
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Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each.
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Stir in vanilla extract.
4. Combine Wet and Dry:
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Add dry ingredients in 2 parts, alternating with milk, mixing gently until just combined.
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Fold in chopped apples.
5. Add Cinnamon-Sugar Swirl:
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In a small bowl, mix 3 tbsp sugar and 1 tsp cinnamon.
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Pour half the batter into the pan, sprinkle half the cinnamon-sugar over it, then layer the rest of the batter and top with remaining cinnamon-sugar.
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Use a knife to gently swirl the sugar into the batter for a marbled effect.
6. Bake:
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Bake 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
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If the top browns too fast, tent with foil for the last 10–15 minutes.
7. Cool and Serve:
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Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
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Slice warm or at room temperature. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.
Tips for Extra Softness
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Apples: Grated apples make the loaf extra moist; chopped apples give more texture.
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Don’t overmix: Fold batter gently to keep it light and airy.
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Optional glaze: Mix ½ cup powdered sugar with 1–2 tsp milk and drizzle over the top for a sweet finish.
I can also give a “5-minute prep, super soft one-bowl version” that’s perfect for when you want a cozy loaf fast. It still tastes like a bakery treat.