Ingredients

2 cups peeled and diced apples

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 cup granulated sugar

1/2 cup brown sugar (plus 1/3 cup and 1/2 cup for different steps)

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (plus 2 tablespoons for glaze)

2 large eggs

1/2 cup milk

2 teaspoons baking powder

1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon (plus 1 teaspoon for swirl)

1 teaspoon vanilla extract (plus 1/2 teaspoon for glaze)

1/4 teaspoon salt

2 tablespoons heavy cream

Instructions

Step 1: Peel and dice the apples, then toss them in a bowl with a little cinnamon and sugar. Set aside.

Step 2: In a small bowl, mix 1/3 cup brown sugar with 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon to prepare the cinnamon sugar swirl.

Step 3: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until fluffy.

Step 4: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 5: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

Step 6: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture alternately with the milk, mixing just until combined.

Step 7: Grease a loaf pan and pour in half of the batter. Layer half of the apples on top, then sprinkle with half of the cinnamon sugar mixture.

Step 8: Repeat with the remaining batter, apples, and cinnamon sugar. Swirl the layers gently with a knife.

Step 9: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 55–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 10: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 11: For the caramel glaze, simmer 1/2 cup brown sugar, heavy cream, and 2 tablespoons butter in a saucepan over medium heat until thickened, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract.

Step 12: Drizzle the warm glaze over the cooled bread. Slice and serve.

Tips & Variations

Use a tart apple like Granny Smith for a nice contrast with the sweetness of the glaze.

For extra texture, add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the batter.

Try substituting half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier loaf.

Be careful not to overmix the batter to keep the bread tender and light.

FAQs

Can I use other types of apples?

Yes, you can use any firm apples you like. Tart varieties such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well to balance the sweetness.

Is it possible to make this bread dairy-free?

Absolutely. Use dairy-free butter and milk alternatives like almond or oat milk. The glaze can be made with coconut cream instead of heavy cream and dairy-free butter substitutes.