Introduction: Cinnamon Apple Swirl Bread is a delightful combination of tender, sweet bread, and warm cinnamon-spiced apples, all swirled together to create a beautiful, aromatic loaf. Perfect for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, this bread is both comforting and flavorful. The soft bread dough pairs wonderfully with the apple filling, and the cinnamon sugar swirl adds a delicious sweetness. It’s a great way to bring fall flavors into your home, and its lovely fragrance will fill your kitchen as it bakes.
Ingredients:
For the dough:
2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
1/2 cup warm milk (110°F/43°C)
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 large egg
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
For the apple filling:
2 medium apples (peeled, cored, and finely diced)
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
For the cinnamon sugar swirl:
1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
For the glaze (optional):
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1-2 tablespoons milk
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, yeast, and a pinch of sugar. Stir and let sit for 5-10 minutes, until the yeast becomes bubbly and foamy.
Make the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the yeast mixture with the butter, egg, remaining sugar, flour, and salt. Mix until the dough starts to come together. Knead on a lightly floured surface for about 8-10 minutes, until smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time.
Let the dough rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.
Prepare the apple filling: While the dough is rising, mix the diced apples with sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice (if using). Set aside.
Prepare the cinnamon sugar swirl: In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and cinnamon for the swirl. Set aside.
Assemble the bread: After the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll the dough into a 12×8-inch rectangle. Evenly spread the apple filling across the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture on top of the apples.
Roll and shape the bread: Starting from one long edge, carefully roll the dough into a log. Pinch the edges to seal, and tuck the ends under. Place the rolled dough into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.
Second rise: Cover the pan with a clean towel and let the dough rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until it puffs up slightly.
Bake the bread: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the bread for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Glaze (optional): While the bread is cooling, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled bread.
Serve: Let the bread cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Description:
Cinnamon Apple Swirl Bread is a mouthwatering treat with a soft, buttery texture and the perfect balance of sweetness and spice. The apples stay tender as they bake into the bread, infusing it with warm, cinnamon flavors. The swirl of cinnamon sugar adds an extra layer of sweetness, making each slice a treat. Whether enjoyed with coffee in the morning, served as a dessert, or as a cozy snack, this bread is sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.
Tips:
For extra apple flavor, you can sauté the diced apples in a little butter before adding them to the dough to soften them and enhance their sweetness.
If you prefer a less sweet loaf, reduce the sugar in both the apple filling and cinnamon sugar swirl.
Make sure your yeast is fresh and the milk is warm (but not too hot) to properly activate the yeast.
If you’re short on time, you can let the dough rise in the fridge overnight for a slower fermentation that enhances the flavor.
Variations:
Nutty Twist: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the apple filling for some crunch.
Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, but keep in mind the texture may change slightly.
Vegan Version: Use non-dairy milk (like almond or oat milk) and swap the butter for a plant-based butter alternative. Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water).
Raisin or Dried Cranberry Bread: Mix in a handful of raisins or dried cranberries with the apple filling for added texture and flavor.
Correction:
If your dough is too sticky while kneading, add a little more flour, but do so sparingly to avoid making the bread too dense. If it’s too dry, add a splash of water or milk to adjust the consistency.
Enjoy:
Enjoy your Cinnamon Apple Swirl Bread fresh out of the oven, with a warm cup of tea or coffee. It’s perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a sweet treat to share with friends and family!
Des répo