Apple Cinnamon Swirl Bread is a fragrant, moist, and irresistible loaf that combines the sweetness of fresh apples with the warmth of cinnamon and the richness of a soft, buttery bread dough. The cinnamon swirl runs throughout, giving each slice a delightful burst of flavor. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a comforting snack, this bread is sure to become a family favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Apple Cinnamon Swirl Bread is everything you could want in a sweet, comforting loaf. The combination of tender, spiced bread with soft apple chunks creates a delicious contrast in texture and flavor. The cinnamon swirl gives each bite an extra layer of sweetness, making it the perfect treat for fall mornings or any time you’re craving something warm and comforting. It’s easy to make, and the house will smell amazing while it’s baking!

Apple Cinnamon Swirl Bread

Ingredients

For the bread dough:

2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
1 cup warm milk (110°F/43°C)
1/4 cup sugar
1/4 cup butter, softened
1 teaspoon salt
2 eggs
3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the cinnamon swirl filling:

1/4 cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
1 tablespoon butter, melted

For the apple filling:

1 large apple, peeled, cored, and diced (about 1 1/2 cups)
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon sugar (optional, for sweetness)
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Stir and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, until the yeast becomes foamy.
Make the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the yeast mixture, softened butter, salt, eggs, and 3 cups of flour. Mix until a sticky dough forms. Gradually add the remaining flour, 1/4 cup at a time, until the dough is soft and no longer sticky.
Knead the dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes, or until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook for this step.
First rise: Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl. Cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
Prepare the apple filling: While the dough is rising, toss the diced apple with lemon juice, sugar, and cinnamon. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld together.
Prepare the cinnamon swirl: In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and ground cinnamon for the swirl. Set aside.
Shape the dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and transfer it to a floured surface. Roll the dough into a rectangle (about 12×18 inches). Brush the melted butter evenly over the dough, then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly on top. Sprinkle the cinnamon apple filling over the sugar mixture.
Form the loaf: Starting from one edge, carefully roll the dough tightly into a log, sealing the edges as you go. Place the rolled dough seam-side down in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.
Second rise: Cover the loaf with a towel and let it rise for another 30-40 minutes, or until it has risen just above the edge of the pan.
Preheat the oven: While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Bake the bread: Once the dough has risen, bake the bread in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. If the top is browning too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil and continue baking.
Cool: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve.

Servings and timing

Servings: 8-10 slices
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes (including rising time)

Variations

Add nuts: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the apple filling for added crunch and flavor.
Cinnamon glaze: For an extra sweet touch, drizzle the bread with a simple cinnamon glaze (powdered sugar, cinnamon, and a bit of milk) after it has cooled.
Use different apples: For a different flavor, you can use tart apples like Granny Smith or a sweeter variety like Fuji or Honeycrisp.
Vegan version: Substitute the butter with plant-based butter, and replace the eggs with a flax egg or other egg alternatives.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also wrap it in plastic wrap and store it in the fridge for a longer shelf life (up to a week).
Reheating: To reheat, warm individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds, or toast them lightly in a toaster.

FAQs

Can I make this bread ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough the night before. After the first rise, punch it down, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it overnight. Let it come to room temperature before continuing with the shaping and second rise the next day.

Can I freeze this bread?

Yes, you can freeze this Apple Cinnamon Swirl Bread! Once it’s cooled completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. To thaw, leave it at room temperature or warm it in the oven.

Can I use store-bought bread dough?

While homemade dough gives the best texture and flavor, you can use store-bought bread dough if you’re short on time. Just follow the same steps for filling and baking.

Can I use other fruits for the filling?

Yes! You can experiment with other fruits like pears, peaches, or even berries. Just make sure the fruit is sliced or chopped and mixed with sugar and cinnamon to create a similar texture.

Can I add more cinnamon?

Absolutely! If you love cinnamon, feel free to increase the amount in both the swirl and the apple filling to suit your taste.

Conclusion

Apple Cinnamon Swirl Bread is the perfect cozy, comforting treat that combines the sweetness of apples with the warm, spicy kick of cinnamon. It’s soft, fluffy, and bursting with flavor, making it a delicious breakfast, snack, or dessert. Whether you serve it fresh out of the oven or toast it for a delightful treat later, this bread will be a hit in your home!