There’s something magical about the combination of warm cinnamon and sweet apples, especially when baked into a soft, moist loaf of bread. This Cinnamon Swirl Apple Bread Recipe brings all the comfort of a cozy fall day right into your kitchen, no matter the season. Each slice bursts with tender apple pieces, rich buttery flavor, and a ribbon of cinnamon sugar that creates the most delightful swirl inside the loaf. It’s the kind of recipe that makes your home smell amazing and your mornings extra special.
This apple bread isn’t just delicious—it’s incredibly easy to make. You don’t need any fancy equipment or hard-to-find ingredients. In fact, you likely have everything in your pantry already. It’s a great way to use up those extra apples sitting in your fruit bowl, and it’s endlessly adaptable to your preferences. Want to use whole wheat flour for a bit more fiber? Go for it. Prefer your bread a little less sweet? You can cut back the sugar. This recipe is forgiving, flexible, and always satisfying.
What makes this Cinnamon Swirl Apple Bread truly irresistible is the texture. The inside is incredibly moist, thanks to the diced apples and the balanced fat from butter and eggs. The cinnamon sugar swirl gives it just the right amount of spice and sweetness without overwhelming the fresh apple flavor. This loaf is perfect for breakfast with a warm cup of coffee, an afternoon snack, or even dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It also freezes beautifully, making it a great choice for meal prep or homemade gifting. One bite of this homemade classic, and you’ll understand why it’s a staple for so many bakers.
Storage Options
Store the cooled bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Summary
Cinnamon Swirl Apple Bread is a moist, flavorful quick bread featuring chunks of fresh apple and a sweet cinnamon swirl throughout. It’s perfect for breakfast, snacking, or dessert and easy to make in one bowl.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Bursting with real apple flavor and a warm cinnamon twist
Moist, tender crumb that stays soft for days
Easy to prepare and uses basic pantry ingredients
Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or cozy breakfasts
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
Mixing bowls
Measuring cups and spoons
Whisk and spatula
9×5-inch loaf pan
Knife and cutting board
Toothpick for doneness testing
Tips for Success
Use firm apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for best texture
Don’t overmix the batter—stir until just combined
Layer the cinnamon sugar in the middle and on top for full swirl effect
Grease the pan well or use parchment for easy removal
Let the bread cool before slicing to maintain structure
Ingredients
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
½ tsp cinnamon
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
½ cup granulated sugar
¼ cup brown sugar
2 large eggs
½ cup sour cream or plain yogurt
1 ½ cups peeled and finely chopped apples
1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Cinnamon Swirl
¼ cup brown sugar
1 tsp ground cinnamon
Directions
Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line with parchment paper
In a small bowl, mix together the cinnamon swirl ingredients and set aside
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon
In a large bowl, beat butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy
Add eggs one at a time, then mix in sour cream and vanilla
Gradually add dry ingredients to wet, stirring until just combined
Fold in chopped apples gently
Pour half the batter into the loaf pan, then sprinkle half the cinnamon sugar mixture
Add remaining batter on top, followed by the rest of the cinnamon sugar
Use a knife to gently swirl the cinnamon sugar through the batter
Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean
Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely
Additional Tips or Variations
Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture
Mix in raisins or dried cranberries for added sweetness
Drizzle with a simple powdered sugar glaze after baking for extra indulgence
Substitute apples with pears or add a touch of nutmeg for a twist on flavor
This Cinnamon Swirl Apple Bread is the perfect homemade treat that brings the comfort of fresh-baked goodness to any time of day. Whether you’re making it for your family, a holiday gathering, or just to enjoy a quiet morning, this recipe delivers warm, flavorful satisfaction in every bite.