Before we get into this comforting, sweet-smelling swirl of a recipe—thank you for being here! It means the world to share these little seasonal joys with you. If you haven’t already, be sure to subscribe below to get each fresh-from-the-oven recipe delivered straight to your inbox. You don’t want to miss the magic coming this fall!
A Hug in Every Slice
If fall had a scent, it would be this Apple Cinnamon Swirl Loaf baking in your oven. The brown sugar and cinnamon meld into a golden, aromatic swirl, while chunks of apple melt into soft pockets of sweet fruit throughout. It’s moist, lightly crisped at the edges, and anything but boring!!
I promised you versatile, and here’s proof: this loaf makes the perfect breakfast treat, afternoon snack, or cozy dessert. Serve it with a hot cup of tea or warm cider and just try not to smile.
Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Recipe
- Perfectly seasonal – Apple + cinnamon is the ultimate fall duo.
- Moist and flavorful – Soft, rich crumb with sweet apple in every bite.
- Smells like heaven – Your house will thank you.
- Simple pantry ingredients – Nothing fancy, just real, delicious baking.
- Pairs beautifully – Tea, coffee, cider, or hot chocolate? Yes to all.
So What Does It Taste Like?
Imagine the warm, spiced flavor of your favorite apple pie—but in tender, buttery loaf form. The cinnamon swirl adds a sweet crunch, while the apples burst with caramel-like softness. Each slice tastes like crisp air, cozy sweaters, and crunching leaves underfoot.
The Benefits of Baking This Apple Cinnamon Swirl Loaf
- ✔️ Comforting & nourishing
- ✔️ Kid-approved & adult-adored
- ✔️ Great for gifting
- ✔️ Freezer-friendly
- ✔️ Makes your house smell like a candle (but better!)
Ingredients Homemade Apple Cinnamon Swirl Loaf
For the swirl:
- 1/3 cup light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
For the batter:
- 2/3 cup white 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 (or dairy-free alternative)
- 1 apple, peeled and finely chopped (I love Honeycrisp or Gala)
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls
- Hand or stand mixer
- Loaf pan (9×5-inch)
- Parchment paper or nonstick spray
- Knife and cutting board
- Toothpick (for doneness check)
Add-Ins & Substitutions
✨ Want to make it your own?
- Swap the apple for pear for a twist.
- Add chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch.
- Mix in raisins or dried cranberries for sweetness.
- Sub gluten-free flour blend for a GF version.
- Use coconut sugar instead of white sugar for a deeper flavor.
How to Make Apple Cinnamon Swirl Loaf
Step 1: Preheat & Prep
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×5 loaf pan with parchment paper or grease it well.
Step 2: Make the Swirl
In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon. Set aside.
Step 3: Mix the Batter
In a medium bowl, cream together white sugar and softened butter until fluffy. Beat in eggs, one at a time, then stir in vanilla.
Step 4: Dry Meets Wet
In a separate bowl, whisk flour and baking powder. Gradually add to the wet mix, alternating with the milk, mixing until just combined.
Step 5: Layer It Up
Pour half the batter into the loaf pan. Top with half the chopped apples and half the cinnamon sugar. Repeat layers. Use a knife to gently swirl the cinnamon mixture through the batter.
Step 6: Bake & Smell the Magic
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.
What to Serve With Your Loaf
- A dollop of whipped cream or vanilla Greek yogurt
- A drizzle of maple glaze or cream cheese frosting
- Sliced and served with sharp cheddar (trust me!)
- Warmed up with vanilla ice cream for dessert
Tips for a Perfect Homemade Apple Cinnamon Swirl Loaf
- Don’t overmix the batter—just until combined!
- Use room-temperature ingredients for best texture.
- Swirl gently so you don’t overmix the layers.
- Let it cool before slicing (I know it’s hard!)
- Store in foil for ultra-moist slices the next day.
How to Store
- Room Temp: Store in an airtight container up to 3 days.
- Fridge: Keeps well for up to 5 days—just bring to room temp before serving.
- Freezer: Slice and freeze for grab-and-go treats. Wrap individually in plastic and foil for best freshness (up to 3 months!).
FAQs Homemade Apple Cinnamon Swirl Loaf
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes! Use a plant-based butter and non-dairy milk like oat or almond.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Make two loaves—one to eat and one to freeze or gift.
What’s the best type of apple to use?
Firm and slightly tart ones like Honeycrisp, Braeburn, or Granny Smith work great.
Can I use whole wheat flour?
You can substitute half the flour with whole wheat for a heartier texture.
Final Thoughts Homemade Apple Cinnamon Swirl Loaf
This Apple Cinnamon Swirl Loaf is fall in a slice. It’s simple, satisfying, and packed with cozy vibes. Whether you’re baking for guests, for gifting, or for your own quiet moment with a cup of tea—this loaf brings warmth with every bite.
If you try it, I’d love to hear from you!
Leave a review below or tag your photos on Pinterest so I can swoon over your creation!
Other Cozy Fall Recipes You’ll Love
Nutrition Information (Per Slice, approx. based on 10 slices):
- Calories: 240
- Fat: 11g
- Carbs: 33g
- Sugar: 18g
- Protein: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
Homemade Apple Cinnamon Swirl Loaf
Description
Before we get into this comforting, sweet-smelling swirl of a recipe—thank you for being here! It means the world to share these little seasonal joys with you. If you haven’t already, be sure to subscribe below to get each fresh-from-the-oven recipe delivered straight to your inbox. You don’t want to miss the magic coming this fall!
Ingredients
For the swirl:
1/3 cup light brown sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
For the batter:
2/3 cup white 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 (or dairy-free alternative)
1 apple, peeled and finely chopped (I love Honeycrisp or Gala)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Prep
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×5 loaf pan with parchment paper or grease it well.
Step 2: Make the Swirl
In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon. Set aside.
Step 3: Mix the Batter
In a medium bowl, cream together white sugar and softened butter until fluffy. Beat in eggs, one at a time, then stir in vanilla.
Step 4: Dry Meets Wet
In a separate bowl, whisk flour and baking powder. Gradually add to the wet mix, alternating with the milk, mixing until just combined.
Step 5: Layer It Up
Pour half the batter into the loaf pan. Top with half the chopped apples and half the cinnamon sugar. Repeat layers. Use a knife to gently swirl the cinnamon mixture through the batter.
Step 6: Bake & Smell the Magic
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.
