Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I really enjoy this recipe because it captures all the comforting flavors of apple fritters in an easy-to-bake loaf. The cinnamon-sugar layers create a beautiful swirl of flavor, while the apples stay soft and juicy. I like how it fills my kitchen with a warm, bakery-style aroma, and the glaze gives it a glossy, sweet finish. It’s perfect for breakfast, dessert, or as a thoughtful homemade gift.

Ingredients

(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)

Main Ingredients:
2 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled and diced
1 ½ cups (190 g) all-purpose flour
½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened
⅔ cup (135 g) granulated sugar
2 large eggs

Spices and Flavoring:
1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
1 ¾ teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
⅓ cup (65 g) granulated sugar

Liquid and Finishing Ingredients:
⅓ cup (80 ml) milk
½ cup (60 g) powdered sugar
2–3 tablespoons milk or heavy cream
½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

1. I start by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C) and preparing a 9×5-inch loaf pan. I grease it with butter and dust it with flour, or I line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. In a large mixing bowl, I cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, which takes about 2 to 3 minutes.

3. I beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract for extra aroma.

4. In a separate bowl, I sift together the flour and baking powder. I add these dry ingredients to the butter mixture gradually, alternating with milk, and mix just until smooth without overbeating.

5. To prepare the apples, I toss the diced pieces with a blend of sugar and ground cinnamon until each one is evenly coated.

6. For a cinnamon-sugar swirl, I combine the extra sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl.

7. I pour half the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly. Then, I sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture and half of the apples on top.

8. I repeat the layers with the remaining batter, apples, and cinnamon-sugar mixture, gently pressing the apples into the top.

9. I bake the bread in the center of the oven for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown.

10. After baking, I let the loaf rest in the pan for about 10 minutes, then carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

11. While the bread cools, I prepare the glaze by whisking powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and pourable.

12. Once the bread is fully cooled, I drizzle the glaze over the top, letting it run down the sides for a sweet, glossy finish.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 8 to 10 servings. It takes 15 minutes to prepare and 1 hour to bake, for a total time of approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Variations

I sometimes add chopped nuts—like pecans or walnuts—for a bit of crunch. For extra flavor, I stir a spoonful of caramel sauce into the glaze. When I’m in the mood for something fruity, I mix diced pears or cranberries with the apples. For a whole-grain version, I replace half the flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier texture.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover apple fritter bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate it for up to a week. To reheat, I warm individual slices in the microwave for about 10–15 seconds or in the oven at 300°F for 5 minutes. The bread also freezes beautifully—I wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it for up to 2 months.

FAQs

What are the best apples to use?

I prefer Granny Smith for tartness or Honeycrisp for natural sweetness and texture.

Can I make this bread without the glaze?

Yes, it’s delicious on its own, but the glaze adds extra sweetness and shine.

Can I use oil instead of butter?

I prefer butter for flavor, but vegetable oil or coconut oil works as a substitute.

How do I know when the bread is done baking?

I insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, I double the ingredients and use two loaf pans, baking both at the same time.

Can I use a different type of milk?

Absolutely. Any milk—dairy or plant-based—works fine for the batter and glaze.

Can I add other fruits?

Yes, diced pears, peaches, or even blueberries make great additions.

Why did my apples sink to the bottom?

I dice them small and gently fold them into the batter to distribute them evenly.

How can I make the glaze thicker?

I add more powdered sugar until it reaches my desired consistency.

Can I serve it warm?

Yes, I love it slightly warm with the glaze gently melting over the top.

Conclusion

I love making this country apple fritter bread because it’s the perfect combination of cozy comfort and sweet indulgence. With its soft crumb, warm cinnamon flavor, and tender apple pieces, it feels like a slice of homemade happiness. Whether I serve it for breakfast, dessert, or as an afternoon treat, it always fills my home with the comforting aroma of apples and spice.