There’s something magical about pulling a warm loaf of apple fritter bread from the oven – that first whiff of cinnamon-spiced apples mingling with buttery vanilla is pure comfort. This isn’t just another quick bread recipe; it’s your favorite apple fritter donut transformed into moist, sliceable perfection with ribbons of caramelized cinnamon sugar running through every bite.
What makes my apple fritter bread special? It captures all the cozy flavors of autumn in one simple loaf – tart apples, rich brown sugar, and just enough spice to make your kitchen smell like a bakery. The glaze dripping down the sides adds that signature fritter sweetness without being overwhelming. Trust me, once you try this version with its perfect crumb and apple-packed layers, you’ll never go back to plain old cinnamon bread again.
Why You’ll Love This Apple Fritter Bread
This apple fritter bread will become your new obsession because:
- It smells like a cinnamon-spiced dream while baking – your whole house will feel cozy
- The layers of tender apples and caramelized cinnamon sugar create pockets of gooey goodness in every slice
- It’s easier than making actual fritters but delivers all that same warm, comforting flavor
- The simple glaze makes it pretty enough for company but casual enough for Tuesday breakfast
- Leftovers (if you have any!) taste even better the next day when the flavors meld
Apple Fritter Bread Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients for the most incredible apple fritter bread you’ll ever taste:
- 1/3 cup packed dark brown sugar – The molasses flavor makes all the difference!
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Use the good stuff, none of that stale spice jar dust
- 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced (I always use Granny Smith for that perfect tartness)
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar – Plain white does the job here
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) softened butter – Leave it out for an hour before baking
- 2 large eggs – Room temperature helps them incorporate better
- 1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract – Imitation vanilla? Not in my kitchen!
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour – Spooned and leveled for accuracy
- 1 3/4 teaspoons baking powder – Check that expiration date!
- 1/2 cup whole milk – The fat content gives better texture
For the glaze: powdered sugar and just enough milk to make it drizzle beautifully.
Essential Equipment for Apple Fritter Bread
You probably have most of these basics already! Here’s what you’ll need:
- A trusty 9×5 inch loaf pan (I use my grandmother’s slightly dented one – it’s got character!)
- Two mixing bowls – one for dry ingredients, one for wet
- Measuring cups and spoons (that 1/4 teaspoon has gone missing again, hasn’t it?)
- A sturdy wooden spoon or spatula for mixing
- Box grater or peeler for those apples
That’s it – no fancy gadgets required for this cozy treat!
How to Make Apple Fritter Bread
Let me walk you through my foolproof method for creating this heavenly apple fritter bread. I’ve made this recipe so many times I could do it in my sleep, but don’t worry – I’ll share all my little tricks!
Preparing the Cinnamon Sugar Mixture
First, grab that small bowl and mix your brown sugar and cinnamon together. Here’s my secret – I use my fingers to rub them together until every grain of sugar is coated in spicy cinnamon goodness. This helps prevent any sneaky lumps and makes sure the flavor distributes evenly through every layer. Set this magical mixture aside – you’ll be using it soon!
Layering the Batter and Apples
Now for the fun part! Pour half your batter into the greased loaf pan (it should cover the bottom nicely). Sprinkle half your diced apples over the batter, then dust generously with half the cinnamon sugar. Repeat with the remaining batter, apples, and sugar – but here’s where I get fancy: use a butter knife to gently swirl through the top layer just once or twice. This creates those beautiful caramel ribbons without overmixing!
Bake at 350°F for 50-60 minutes. Around the 45-minute mark, start checking with a toothpick – it should come out clean when inserted near the center. The top should be golden brown and your kitchen will smell like autumn heaven. Let it cool slightly before that glorious glaze drizzle!
Tips for Perfect Apple Fritter Bread
After burning my fair share of loaves and learning the hard way, here are my can’t-live-without tips for apple fritter bread success:
- Pick tart apples – Granny Smiths hold their shape and balance the sweetness perfectly (trust me, I once used Red Delicious and regretted it!)
- Cool completely before slicing – I know it’s tempting, but cutting too soon makes messy slices that fall apart
- Check your baking powder – Nothing’s sadder than a dense loaf because your leavener lost its oomph
- Don’t skip the glaze – That thin drizzle soaks into warm bread creating magic moisture pockets
Oh, and pro tip: hide a slice for yourself before serving – this bread disappears fast!
Apple Fritter Bread Variations
Want to mix things up? Try tossing in a handful of toasted walnuts or pecans for crunch – my Aunt Mae always does! Pear fritter bread works beautifully too (just swap equal amounts). Feeling fancy? A tablespoon of bourbon in the glaze adds grown-up flair. The basic recipe is your delicious canvas!
Storing and Reheating Apple Fritter Bread
This heavenly apple fritter bread stays fresh at room temperature for about 2 days – if it lasts that long! Just wrap it tightly in foil or keep it under a cake dome. For longer storage, slice and freeze individual portions in freezer bags. Want that just-baked warmth? Pop slices in the toaster oven for 2-3 minutes or microwave briefly (10-15 seconds). The glaze might get a bit melty – but hey, that’s half the fun!
Apple Fritter Bread Nutrition Information
Now, let’s be real – we’re not eating apple fritter bread for its health benefits! But since you asked, here’s the scoop on what’s in each delicious slice (based on my recipe, but your mileage may vary depending on exact ingredients):
- 220 calories – Worth every single one!
- 18g sugar – Mostly from those sweet apples and glaze
- 8g fat – Thank that glorious butter for the rich flavor
- 3g protein – Consider it fuel for your next baking adventure
Remember, these are just estimates – your actual numbers might dance around a bit depending on apple size or how heavy-handed you are with that glaze (no judgment here!).
FAQs About Apple Fritter Bread
After years of perfecting this recipe (and fielding texts from panicked friends mid-bake), here are the questions I get asked most:
1. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose?
You can, but the bread will be denser. I sometimes do half whole wheat, half all-purpose for a compromise. Just don’t forget to increase the milk by a tablespoon – whole wheat flour drinks up more liquid!
2. Why does my bread sometimes get a soggy bottom?
Ah, the dreaded soggies! Two tricks: 1) Make sure your apples are diced small (big chunks release too much juice). 2) Let the loaf cool completely in the pan on a wire rack – this lets steam escape instead of getting trapped.
3. Can I make this without eggs?
I’ve had success using 1/4 cup applesauce per egg as a substitute. The texture changes slightly (it’s more cakey), but you still get all that amazing apple flavor!
4. My cinnamon sugar always sinks – help!
Try tossing your diced apples with 1 tablespoon of flour before layering. The light coating helps “anchor” the sugar mixture so it stays put in those gorgeous swirls.
5. How do I know when it’s truly done baking?
The toothpick test can lie with fruit breads! I also gently press the top – it should spring back, not leave an indent. And look for the edges pulling slightly from the pan. When in doubt, bake 5 more minutes!
Irresistible Apple Fritter Bread Recipe That Steals Hearts
- Total Time: 1 hr 10 mins
- Yield: 1 loaf 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious apple fritter bread recipe with cinnamon and a sweet glaze.
Ingredients
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 apples, peeled, cored, and diced
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 2 eggs
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 3/4 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 cup milk
- Glaze: 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan.
- Mix brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream sugar and butter. Beat in eggs and vanilla.
- Combine flour and baking powder; stir into creamed mixture alternately with milk.
- Pour half the batter into the loaf pan. Layer half the apples and half the cinnamon-sugar mix.
- Repeat layers with remaining batter, apples, and cinnamon-sugar.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool slightly, then drizzle with glaze.
Notes
- Use tart apples for better flavor.
- Let bread cool before slicing.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 55 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Keywords: apple fritter bread, cinnamon bread, apple dessert
