If you’re craving a warm, cozy treat that tastes like a classic apple fritter captured in loaf form, this Apple Fritter Bread Recipe is about to become your new favorite. It’s the perfect balance of soft, tender bread, juicy cinnamon-spiced apples, and a sweet glaze that makes each bite utterly irresistible. Whether it’s for breakfast, dessert, or just because, this recipe delivers all the comforting flavors of fall baking in an easy-to-make, shareable loaf that fills your kitchen with the most inviting aroma.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to nailing this Apple Fritter Bread Recipe. Each component is simple but essential, bringing the right sweetness, spice, and texture that make this loaf unforgettable.
- Light brown sugar: Adds a rich, caramel-like sweetness to the cinnamon sugar layers.
- Ground cinnamon: The star spice that pairs perfectly with apples to create that signature fritter flavor.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the bread batter and apple mixture, balancing flavor depth.
- Unsalted butter (softened): Provides moisture and a tender crumb to the bread.
- Large eggs: Bind the batter together while adding richness.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances all the sweet flavors with its warm, aromatic notes.
- All-purpose flour: The structure of our loaf, making each slice hold together perfectly.
- Baking powder: Gives the bread its light, airy lift.
- Milk: Keeps the batter moist and smooth.
- Apples (peeled and diced): Fresh and tender, they contribute juicy bursts that take this bread to the next level.
- Powdered sugar (for glaze): The essential sweet finishing touch for drip-worthy appeal.
How to Make Apple Fritter Bread Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), and greasing a 9×5-inch loaf pan. Dust it lightly with flour to ensure your bread comes out cleanly—this simple prep sets you up for a flawless loaf every time.
Step 2: Mix Your Cinnamon Sugar and Apples
In a small bowl, combine the light brown sugar with cinnamon—it’s the flavor base for those delightful sugar layers that mimic a classic apple fritter. Then, toss the peeled, diced apples with granulated sugar and cinnamon in a separate bowl to infuse them with sweet spice and a touch of warmth.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar, Add Eggs and Vanilla
In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy—this step is key to a tender bread. Beat in your eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next, then stir in the vanilla for that irresistible aroma.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients and Alternate with Milk
Whisk together the flour and baking powder in a separate bowl. Gradually add this dry mixture to your butter mixture, alternating with milk, and stir just until everything is combined. Overmixing will toughen the bread, so keep it gentle and light here.
Step 5: Layer Batter, Apples, and Cinnamon Sugar in the Pan
Pour half your batter into the prepared pan, then add half of the apple mixture on top. Sprinkle half the cinnamon sugar blend over the apples. Repeat this layering one more time with the remaining batter, apples, and cinnamon sugar. Lightly swirl the layers together with a knife to disperse the cinnamon sugar without fully mixing it in—this creates those gorgeous fritter-style ribbons.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Set
Bake your lovely loaf for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. This is the moment your kitchen will fill with the most comforting, apple-cinnamon scent that’s pure happiness. Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 7: Whisk and Drizzle the Glaze
Mix powdered sugar with vanilla and a splash of milk until you have a smooth glaze. Drizzle it generously over your cooled bread for the perfect sweet finish that’s classic to any Apple Fritter Bread Recipe. The glaze adds that irresistible sticky-sweet touch you’ll love.
How to Serve Apple Fritter Bread Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra special presentation, sprinkle a little powdered sugar or a dusting of cinnamon on top of the glaze. Fresh apple slices or a few chopped nuts add a lovely crunch and a fresh look that’s just beautiful on the table.
Side Dishes
This bread pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert, or simply a pat of butter for breakfast. A hot cup of coffee, chai tea, or warm apple cider completes this cozy treat perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting the loaf into thick slices and serving it toasted with cream cheese or a smear of your favorite nut butter. For a fun brunch twist, create mini bread pudding bites or French toast with leftover slices for a new way to enjoy this Apple Fritter Bread Recipe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap your leftover apple fritter bread tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store it at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps it fresh and soft, perfect for quick snacks or breakfast on the go.
Freezing
You can freeze the bread for longer storage by wrapping it well in plastic and then placing it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It will keep for up to 3 months—thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature before serving.
Reheating
To bring back that fresh-baked warmth, reheat each slice in a toaster oven or microwave for about 15-20 seconds. The glaze will soften slightly, making each bite taste like it just came out of the oven.
FAQs
Can I use different types of apples in this Apple Fritter Bread Recipe?
Absolutely! While tart apples like Granny Smith give a nice balance of sweet and tangy, you can also mix in Gala or Fuji for a sweeter flavor. Just be sure to peel and dice them evenly.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend. Just ensure it contains xanthan gum or another binder to help maintain the bread’s structure.
Can I add nuts or raisins to the bread?
Definitely! Adding chopped walnuts, pecans, or raisins will give your bread an extra texture and flavor dimension. Stir them into the batter or sprinkle between layers just as you do with the cinnamon sugar.
How long does the bread stay fresh?
When stored properly at room temperature, this bread stays fresh for about 3 days. Beyond that, freezing is your best option to keep it tasting like new.
What is the best way to ensure moist apple pieces inside the bread?
Coating the diced apples with sugar and cinnamon before adding them to the batter helps draw out some moisture while keeping the pieces tender and delicious amid the bread’s soft crumb.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about homemade Apple Fritter Bread Recipe—it’s a simple little loaf that brings warmth, comfort, and a touch of sweetness to any moment. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or yourself, this recipe invites you to slow down and savor those cozy, delicious flavors we all crave. Give it a try soon, and I promise it will earn a forever place on your recipe list!
Print
Apple Fritter Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (8 slices)
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Apple Fritter Bread Recipe offers a delightful blend of tender, cinnamon-spiced bread layered with sweet and tart diced apples, finished with a smooth vanilla glaze. Perfect for breakfast or dessert, it captures the cozy flavors of fall in every bite.
Ingredients
For the bread:
- 1/3 cup light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 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 milk
For the apple layer:
- 2 apples (peeled and diced)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
For the glaze:
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1–2 tablespoons milk
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the pan and preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan to ensure the bread doesn’t stick.
- Mix cinnamon sugar: In a small bowl, combine the light brown sugar with 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Set this flavorful cinnamon sugar blend aside for layering.
- Prepare the apples: In another bowl, toss the peeled and diced apples with 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar and 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon. This will add sweetness and spice to the apple layer.
- Cream butter and sugars: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the granulated sugar and softened butter until the mixture is light and fluffy, which helps create a tender bread texture.
- Add eggs and vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, to add moisture and flavor to the batter.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and baking powder for even distribution throughout the batter.
- Mix wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, stirring until just combined to avoid overmixing and a dense bread.
- Layer the batter and apples: Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Spread half of the apple mixture over the batter, then sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar blend on top. Repeat the layers with the remaining batter, apples, and cinnamon sugar. Swirl lightly with a knife to create a marbled effect.
- Bake the bread: Place the loaf pan in the oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. This indicates the bread is cooked through.
- Cool the bread: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes to firm up, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling prevents the glaze from melting.
- Prepare the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and 1 to 2 tablespoons of milk until smooth and pourable.
- Glaze the bread: Drizzle the glaze evenly over the cooled bread to add a sweet finishing touch that complements the cinnamon and apples perfectly.
Notes
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith for the best flavor contrast with the sweet bread.
- Bread can be wrapped tightly and stored at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- To keep longer, freeze the bread wrapped in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for extended storage.
