Are you craving the warm, comforting aroma of freshly baked bread infused with the sweet tang of apples and a hint of spice? Then look no further! This Apple Cinnamon Swirl Loaf Bread recipe is the perfect answer for a delicious and easy homemade treat. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a delightful afternoon snack, this recipe is surprisingly simple to make, even for beginner bakers. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this wonderfully flavorful and fragrant loaf!
Ingredients:
- For the Loaf:
- 1 cup warm milk (105-115°F)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 ½ - 4 cups all-purpose flour
- For the Apple Cinnamon Filling:
- 2 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp recommended), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- ¼ cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a large bowl, combine the warm milk, yeast, and granulated sugar. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This ensures your yeast is alive and ready to work its magic.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
Add the egg and melted butter to the yeast mixture. Whisk until well combined.
Step 3: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the flour and salt to the wet ingredients, mixing with a wooden spoon or spatula until a shaggy dough forms.
Step 4: Knead the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time.
Step 5: Prepare the Filling
In a separate bowl, combine the sliced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg (if using).
Step 6: Assemble the Loaf
Lightly grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan. Roll the dough into a rectangle approximately 12x15 inches. Evenly spread the apple cinnamon filling over the dough. Tightly roll the dough from the long side into a log. Cut the log in half lengthwise, and then twist the two halves together before placing it in the prepared loaf pan.
Step 7: First Rise
Cover the loaf pan with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
Step 8: Bake the Loaf
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the loaf for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 9: Cool and Enjoy
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy your warm, delicious Apple Cinnamon Swirl Loaf Bread!
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor, use brown butter instead of regular melted butter.
- Add a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans to the filling for extra crunch.
- Substitute raisins or cranberries for some or all of the apples.
- Drizzle a simple glaze (powdered sugar mixed with milk or lemon juice) over the cooled loaf for extra sweetness.
- This bread is best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate):
Calories: 250-300, Fat: 8-10g, Carbohydrates: 40-45g, Protein: 5-7g
This Apple Cinnamon Swirl Loaf Bread recipe is a perfect example of how delicious and easy homemade cooking can be. It’s a great way to enjoy the flavors of fall and create a comforting treat for yourself and your loved ones. So, gather your ingredients, and get baking!