Description
This Caramel Apple Fritter Bread is a deliciously moist and flavorful loaf featuring chunks of cinnamon-spiced apples swirled into a tender cake-like batter. Topped with a luscious homemade caramel glaze, this bread combines the comforting flavors of apple fritters with the convenience of quick bread, making it a perfect sweet breakfast treat or dessert.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Bread:
- 2 cups peeled and diced apples
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Cinnamon Sugar Swirl:
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
For the Caramel Glaze:
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the apples: Peel and dice the apples into small chunks. Toss them in a bowl with a little ground cinnamon and sugar to lightly coat. Set aside to marinate and infuse flavor.
- Make the cinnamon sugar swirl: In a small bowl, mix together 1/3 cup brown sugar and 1 teaspoon cinnamon. This mixture will be used to create a flavorful swirl inside the bread.
- Cream butter and sugars: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and 1/2 cup brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which will help give the bread a tender crumb.
- Add eggs and vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract for aroma and depth of flavor.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon to ensure they’re evenly combined for consistent flavor and leavening.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients: Alternately add the dry ingredients and milk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined to avoid overworking the batter which can make the bread tough.
- Layer the batter and apples: Grease a loaf pan thoroughly. Pour half of the batter into the pan. Layer half of the diced apples over the batter, then sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture on top.
- Repeat layering: Add the remaining batter over the apples, then layer the remaining apples and cinnamon sugar on top. Using a knife, gently swirl the layers to create a marbled effect.
- Bake the bread: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the loaf for 55–60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating the bread is fully cooked.
- Cool the bread: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents sogginess and allows the bread to set.
- Prepare the caramel glaze: In a small saucepan, combine 1/2 cup brown sugar, 2 tablespoons butter, and 2 tablespoons heavy cream. Simmer over medium heat for about 5 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
- Add vanilla and glaze the bread: Remove the saucepan from heat, stir in 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract for added flavor, and drizzle the warm glaze over the cooled bread. Slice and serve.
Notes
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a nice balance of sweetness and tartness.
- Don’t overmix the batter to keep the bread tender and fluffy.
- The bread can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Reheat slices briefly before serving to enhance the flavor and texture.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with vegan butter and use a plant-based milk and cream alternative.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Caramel Apple Fritter Bread, Apple Bread, Cinnamon Swirl Bread, Caramel Glaze, Breakfast Bread
