
Introduction
Apple Fritter Bread is a warm, comforting, and sweet quick bread inspired by the classic apple fritter doughnut. Instead of frying, this recipe turns the flavors of cinnamon-spiced apples and vanilla glaze into a soft loaf cake that is baked to perfection. It’s moist, tender, and filled with chunks of juicy apples layered with a cinnamon-sugar swirl, then drizzled with a sweet glaze. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, dessert, or even as a gift for loved ones.
Ingredients
For the Bread:
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
- 1 3/4 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 cup (120ml) milk
For the Apple Layer:
- 2 large apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and chopped
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
For the Cinnamon Swirl:
- 1/3 cup (65g) brown sugar, packed
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
For the Glaze:
- 1/2 cup (60g) powdered sugar
- 2–3 tsp milk or cream
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
- Prepare the apple mixture: In a bowl, toss the chopped apples with sugar and cinnamon. Set aside.
- Make the batter:
- In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in eggs, one at a time, then stir in vanilla.
- In another bowl, whisk flour and baking powder.
- Add dry ingredients to the creamed mixture alternately with milk, beginning and ending with flour. Mix until just combined.
- Layer the bread:
- Spread half the batter into the prepared pan.
- Sprinkle half the cinnamon-brown sugar mix, then layer half the apples.
- Add the remaining batter, then top with the rest of the apples and cinnamon mixture.
- Gently swirl the layers with a knife for a marbled effect.
- Bake for 55–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool and glaze: Let bread cool for 15 minutes. Mix powdered sugar with milk until smooth, then drizzle over the cooled loaf.
Methods & Tips
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith for balance, or sweet apples like Fuji for extra sweetness.
- Do not overmix the batter—this keeps the bread soft and tender.
- For extra indulgence, add chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts).
History
Apple fritters trace back to European kitchens, especially in England and France, where fruit-filled pastries were common. The American version of the apple fritter doughnut became popular in the 19th century, fried in lard and glazed. Apple Fritter Bread is a modern twist, created for a healthier, oven-baked alternative without losing the classic cinnamon-apple flavor.
Benefits
- Comforting & warming: Perfect for fall and winter.
- Energy-rich: Provides quick energy from carbs and natural fruit sugars.
- Homemade alternative: Healthier than fried fritters.
- Versatile: Can be served at breakfast, tea time, or dessert.
Variations (Formation)
- Apple Fritter Muffins – Bake in muffin tins for individual portions.
- Apple Fritter Cake – Double the recipe and bake in a square pan.
- Glazed Cinnamon Apple Rolls – Roll the batter with apples like cinnamon rolls.
Nutrition (per slice, 10 servings)
- Calories: ~270
- Carbs: 38g
- Sugar: 22g
- Fat: 11g
- Protein: 3g
- Fiber: 2g
Conclusion
Apple Fritter Bread is a delicious fusion of apple pie and doughnut flavors, baked into a moist loaf. It brings the coziness of fall into your kitchen and is loved by all ages. Serve it warm with a cup of coffee, or pack it for lunchbox treats—it’s a recipe that will quickly become a family favorite.
Lovers of Apple Fritter Bread: Kids love the sweetness, adults love the nostalgia, and bakers love how easy it is to make!