Apple Fritter Bread

Apple Fritter Bread is a perfect hybrid between a cozy cinnamon-spiced cake and your favorite apple fritter donut. Packed with tender apple chunks, rich cinnamon sugar swirls, and finished with a silky vanilla glaze, this loaf is both nostalgic and indulgent.

Whether you’re serving it as a breakfast treat, afternoon snack, or sweet ending to a dinner party, this bread delivers on flavor, texture, and that warm-from-the-oven aroma that fills the whole kitchen. It’s an ideal fall bake but honestly irresistible any time of year.

Full recipe:

Ingredients:

For the Apple Filling:

• 2 large apples, peeled and chopped (Honeycrisp or Granny Smith preferred)

• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

For the Cinnamon Swirl:

• 1/3 cup light brown sugar

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

For the Bread Batter:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 2/3 cup granulated sugar

• 2 large eggs

• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 3/4 teaspoons baking powder

• 1/2 cup whole milk

For the Glaze:

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar

• 1–2 tablespoons milk or cream

• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper.

2. In a small bowl, toss chopped apples with sugar and cinnamon. Set aside.

3. In another bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon for the swirl. Set aside.

4. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each. Mix in vanilla.

5. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder. Add dry ingredients to the butter mixture alternately with milk. Stir until just combined.

6. Pour half the batter into the prepared pan. Layer with half of the apple mixture and half of the cinnamon swirl. Lightly press in.

7. Repeat with remaining batter, apples, and cinnamon swirl. Swirl top with a knife.

8. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool in pan for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

9. Whisk glaze ingredients until smooth and drizzle over cooled bread. Let set before slicing.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 55 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Kcal: 290 kcal | Servings: 8 slices

Why Apple Fritter Bread Is a Must-Try Recipe

Apple Fritter Bread has quickly gained popularity, and for good reason. The combination of apples and cinnamon is timeless, and when paired with the moist, tender texture of a loaf, it becomes a comforting treat that feels like a hug in a bite. The recipe is simple, yet it yields a result that looks and tastes impressive — making it perfect for a weekend bake, a dessert for family gatherings, or even a holiday breakfast.

This bread offers a wonderful way to celebrate the flavors of fall, when apples are at their best. There’s something about the combination of warm spices and fresh apples that feels like the very essence of autumn. However, don’t be fooled by its “fall” reputation; Apple Fritter Bread is a year-round favorite that pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea.

The Appeal of Cinnamon and Apples

The magic of Apple Fritter Bread starts with the ingredients, particularly the apples and cinnamon. Apples are a versatile fruit that adds both sweetness and tartness to baked goods. In this bread, the apples break down slightly during baking, softening to create little pockets of flavor in every slice. The type of apple you use can influence the overall flavor. For example, Honeycrisp apples will add a touch of sweetness, while Granny Smith apples bring a tart contrast to balance out the sugar and cinnamon.

Cinnamon, the spice that often accompanies apples in baked goods, is what ties everything together. Its warm, earthy flavor complements the fruitiness of the apples and the sweetness of the glaze. Together, they create a harmonious flavor profile that feels both indulgent and comforting, making each bite of Apple Fritter Bread a treat.

How to Make Apple Fritter Bread

Making Apple Fritter Bread is relatively simple, especially when compared to other, more complex baked goods. While the bread does require some time to bake, the process itself is straightforward and beginner-friendly. The key to getting it right lies in layering the apples, cinnamon sugar swirl, and bread batter. By doing this, you create a beautiful ribbon of apple cinnamon goodness throughout the bread.

One of the most enjoyable parts of making this bread is the smell that fills your kitchen as it bakes. The cinnamon-sugar mixture, combined with the soft apples and baking bread, creates an aroma that’s irresistible and will have your family or guests eagerly awaiting the final product. As the bread bakes, it turns golden brown and develops a slightly crispy top, which contrasts perfectly with the soft, pillowy interior.

Once the bread is baked and cooled, the glaze is added, providing a glossy finish that makes the bread look even more tempting. The glaze isn’t just for show, though; it adds a creamy sweetness that takes this bread from good to great, balancing the richness of the cinnamon and apples with its smooth, sugary flavor.

The Best Apples for Apple Fritter Bread

While most apple varieties will work in Apple Fritter Bread, some types are better suited for baking. Apples like Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, and Fuji hold up well when baked, offering the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness. Honeycrisp apples are particularly popular for their natural sweetness and firm texture, while Granny Smith apples provide a sharp contrast that helps balance out the sweetness of the bread and glaze.

If you’re looking for a softer, more aromatic option, Gala or Braeburn apples are also great choices. They tend to break down more in the baking process, creating a more tender, juicy result. Depending on your taste preferences, you can mix different types of apples together for a more complex flavor or stick to a single variety for simplicity.

Tips for Perfecting Your Apple Fritter Bread

While this recipe is fairly easy to follow, a few tips can help ensure that your Apple Fritter Bread turns out perfect every time:

1. Don’t Overmix the Batter – When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix gently to avoid overworking the batter. Overmixing can lead to a dense, tough texture. Stir until just combined for a light, fluffy loaf.

2. Layer the Apples and Cinnamon – Make sure to layer the apples and cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly throughout the batter. This creates beautiful swirls and ensures that each bite contains a bit of both flavors.

3. Use Room Temperature Ingredients – Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature before you begin. This helps the batter come together more easily and ensures a smooth, even texture.

4. Cool Before Glazing – Allow the bread to cool slightly before adding the glaze. If the bread is too hot, the glaze may melt and run off, creating a mess instead of a neat, glossy finish.

Serving Suggestions

Apple Fritter Bread is perfect on its own, but it can also be served with a variety of accompaniments to elevate the experience. Try serving it alongside a cup of hot coffee or tea for a cozy breakfast or afternoon snack. It also pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert.

For an extra indulgence, serve it warm, straight from the oven, with a drizzle of extra glaze on top. The combination of warm bread and cool glaze creates an irresistible contrast that will have your guests coming back for more.

Why You’ll Love Apple Fritter Bread

Apple Fritter Bread is the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and comforting flavors. The tender, moist bread with a ribbon of cinnamon and apples inside, topped with a sweet vanilla glaze, is an irresistible treat. Whether you enjoy it with a cup of coffee in the morning or as an afternoon snack, this bread will soon become a favorite in your household.

The best part about this recipe is that it’s easy to make and doesn’t require any complicated techniques or ingredients. It’s the kind of recipe that anyone can make, whether you’re a seasoned baker or just getting started. Plus, it’s perfect for any occasion — whether you’re celebrating fall, hosting a gathering, or simply indulging in a delicious homemade treat.

Conclusion

Apple Fritter Bread is a delightful, easy-to-make dessert that’s bursting with the flavors of fall. The combination of juicy apples, warm cinnamon, and sweet vanilla glaze creates a loaf that’s both comforting and indulgent. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced bakers alike.

So, the next time you’re in the mood for a sweet, spiced treat, try making Apple Fritter Bread. It’s sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire and leave your kitchen smelling like heaven. Whether you’re serving it at a special occasion or simply enjoying it with your morning coffee, this bread is sure to impress and satisfy.