Cinnamon Swirl Apple Fritter Bread combines the best of two beloved treats into one irresistible loaf that fills your kitchen with the warm scents of fall. This moist apple bread recipe delivers tender chunks of fresh apples swirled with cinnamon sugar, creating a perfect balance of flavors that rivals any bakery creation.
I discovered this recipe during a cozy autumn weekend when I wanted something special for Sunday brunch. The house filled with the most amazing aroma as it baked, and my family couldn’t stop asking for seconds. Now it’s become our go-to treat for everything from breakfast to afternoon tea.
This apple fritter bread recipe easy enough for beginners yet impressive enough for special occasions. Unlike traditional fried apple fritters, this country apple fritter bread recipe gives you all those beloved flavors in a simple loaf format that’s perfect for sharing.
Table of Contents
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Apple Cinnamon Bread
Creating the perfect apple cinnamon bread recipe with brown sugar requires quality ingredients that work together harmoniously. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving that tender, moist texture we all crave.

For the Bread Base:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup whole milk
For the Apple Mixture:
- 2 medium Granny Smith apples, peeled and diced
- 1 tablespoon flour (for coating apples)
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
For the Cinnamon Swirl:
- 1/3 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
For the Brown Sugar Glaze:
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 3-4 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla
The key to this recipe for apple cinnamon bread lies in using the right apple variety. Granny Smith apples hold their shape beautifully during baking while providing that perfect tart contrast to the sweet cinnamon swirl.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Amish Apple Fritter Bread
This amish apple fritter bread recipe follows traditional techniques that ensure consistent results every time. The method might seem detailed, but each step contributes to the final texture and flavor.
Step 1: Prepare Your Kitchen: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan thoroughly with butter or cooking spray. Line with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside. This ensures even distribution of leavening agents throughout your apple loaf recipes.
Step 3: Create the Wet Mixture: In a large bowl, combine melted butter and granulated sugar. Mix until well combined. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract and milk until smooth.

Step 4: Prepare the Apples: Toss diced apples with 1 tablespoon flour and 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon. This coating prevents the apples from sinking to the bottom during baking.
Step 5: Make the Cinnamon Swirl: In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter until it forms a paste-like consistency.
Step 6: Combine Everything: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Don’t overmix. Gently fold in the coated apple pieces.
Step 7: Layer and Swirl: Pour half the batter into your prepared pan. Drop spoonfuls of the cinnamon mixture over the batter. Pour the remaining batter on top. Use a knife to create gentle swirl patterns.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection: Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. The top should be golden brown.
Step 9: Cool and Glaze: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before turning out onto a wire rack. While cooling, whisk together all glaze ingredients until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled bread.

Pro Tips and Creative Variations
After making this apple fritter loaf cake dozens of times, I’ve learned several tricks that elevate the final result. These professional tips ensure your bread turns out perfect every time.
Expert Techniques:
- Room temperature ingredients mix more evenly, creating a smoother batter
- Don’t skip coating the apples with flour – it prevents them from sinking
- Use a light hand when swirling to avoid overmixing the batter
- Test doneness with a toothpick, but expect a few moist crumbs
Delicious Variations: Try these creative twists on the classic recipe:
Nutty Apple Fritter Bread: Add 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans to the apple mixture for extra texture and richness.
Caramel Apple Version: Replace the brown sugar glaze with warm caramel sauce drizzled over each slice.
Spiced Apple Bread: Enhance the flavor profile by adding 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg and 1/8 teaspoon allspice to the cinnamon swirl.
Mini Loaf Option: Divide the batter among 4 mini loaf pans and bake for 25-30 minutes for perfect individual portions.
Storage Secrets: Wrap cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap and store at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months. The bread actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
Perfect Serving Suggestions
This apple cinnamon bread with brown sugar glaze shines in many different serving scenarios. Its versatility makes it perfect for any time of day.
Breakfast and Brunch: Serve thick slices alongside scrambled eggs and crispy bacon for a complete morning meal. The bread pairs beautifully with hot coffee or fresh orange juice.
Afternoon Treats: Cut into smaller portions and serve with afternoon tea or coffee. The sweet glaze makes it feel special enough for entertaining guests.
Dessert Options: Warm slices slightly and top with vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. A drizzle of additional caramel sauce takes it over the top.
Holiday Presentations: Arrange slices on a beautiful platter garnished with fresh apple slices and cinnamon sticks for an elegant holiday spread.
Gift Ideas: Wrap whole loaves in cellophane with ribbon for thoughtful homemade gifts. Neighbors and friends always appreciate receiving this special treat.
The bread also makes excellent French toast when sliced thick and soaked in a vanilla custard mixture. The apple pieces and cinnamon swirl create an incredibly flavorful breakfast dish.
Conclusion
This cinnamon swirl apple fritter bread recipe transforms simple ingredients into something truly spectacular. The combination of tender apples, warm cinnamon, and that irresistible brown sugar glaze creates a treat that brings people together around the kitchen table.
What makes this apple bread recipe moist and flavorful is the careful balance of ingredients and the gentle mixing technique. The result is a tender crumb studded with perfectly spiced apple pieces that practically melt in your mouth.
Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just want to fill your home with the comforting aromas of fall, this recipe delivers every time. The best part is watching family and friends enjoy each delicious slice, creating those warm memories that make home baking so rewarding.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of apples in this recipe? Yes, but choose apples that hold their shape during baking. Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Braeburn work well. Avoid Red Delicious as they become mushy when baked.
How do I know when the bread is completely done? Insert a toothpick into the center. It should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. The internal temperature should reach 200°F for fully baked bread.
Can I make this recipe without the glaze? Absolutely! The bread is delicious on its own. You can also dust it with powdered sugar or serve it plain if you prefer less sweetness.
What’s the best way to store leftover bread? Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and store at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 3 months.
Can I double this recipe? Yes, but use two separate loaf pans rather than one large pan. The baking time will remain the same, but check both loaves for doneness as oven hot spots can cause uneven baking.
Why did my apples sink to the bottom? This usually happens when you skip coating the apples in flour or if the batter is too thin. The flour coating helps suspend the fruit pieces throughout the bread.
Can I add nuts to this recipe? Definitely! Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans along with the apples. Coat them lightly with flour too to prevent sinking.

Cinnamon Swirl Apple Fritter Bread
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk, until just combined.
- In a small bowl, toss the chopped apples with sugar and cinnamon. Set aside.
- In another bowl, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon for the swirl.
- Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Add half of the apple mixture and half of the cinnamon sugar swirl. Repeat with remaining batter, apples, and cinnamon sugar.
- Use a knife to gently swirl the cinnamon sugar into the batter for a marbled effect.
- Bake for 50–55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
- Whisk powdered sugar with milk to make the glaze. Drizzle over the cooled bread before slicing and serving.
Notes
Total Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 55mg
Sodium: 185mg
Total Carbohydrates: 52g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 35g
Protein: 4g
Vitamin C: 3% DV