Ingredients

1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened

2/3 cup (133g) 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

2 medium apples, peeled, cored & diced (mix of tart & sweet)

1/3 cup (67g) brown sugar

1 tsp ground cinnamon

1/2 cup (60g) powdered sugar

1–2 tbsp milk

1/4 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Make the cinnamon-apple mixture by tossing the diced apples with brown sugar and cinnamon in a bowl. Set aside.

Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the 1 1/2 teaspoons of vanilla extract.

Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with milk, mixing just until combined. Avoid overmixing.

Step 5: Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Top with half of the apple mixture. Repeat by adding the remaining batter and apple mixture. Use a knife to lightly swirl the apples into the batter for a marbled effect.

Step 6: Bake for 50–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool the bread in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 8: To make the glaze, whisk together powdered sugar, 1 to 2 tablespoons milk, and 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled bread.

Step 9: Slice and enjoy warm or at room temperature.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, try using a mix of tart Granny Smith and sweet Fuji apples.

You can add chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, to the apple mixture for added crunch.

If you prefer a stronger cinnamon flavor, increase the cinnamon in the apple mixture to 1 1/2 teaspoons.

Use buttermilk instead of regular milk for a tender crumb and subtle tang.

FAQs

Can I use frozen apples instead of fresh?

Fresh apples are best to maintain texture, but if using frozen, thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture that can affect the bread’s consistency.

How do I know when the bread is fully baked?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter. Baking times may vary slightly depending on your oven.