
Apple fritter bread transforms a classic fairground treat into a simple loaf you can enjoy for breakfast or dessert right at home. This sweet bread layers juicy apples with cinnamon sugar and a buttery crumb, finished off with a pretty powdered sugar glaze that invites everyone to slice in.
My family loves this bread on weekends with coffee or milk. The first time I made it my kitchen smelled like an old-fashioned bakery and everyone gathered around asking for just one more slice.
Ingredients
- Apples: choose firm and tart apples like Granny Smith for the best texture but really any type works if that is what you have
- Light brown sugar: creates those rich caramel swirls that taste indulgent
- Ground cinnamon: brings warmth and that signature fritter flavor use a fresh jar for the most aroma
- Granulated sugar: splits its sweetness between the apples and cake
- Butter: softened to room temperature ensures your batter is creamy and smooth
- Eggs: add structure and richness pick the freshest you can find for a higher rise
- Vanilla extract: rounds out the flavors pure vanilla gives the best result
- All-purpose flour: forms the perfect tender crumb choose unbleached for a natural flavor
- Baking powder: gives the loaf a good lift check the date to make sure it is active
- Milk or almond milk: helps build a moist crumb and keeps things light whole milk adds more richness
- Powdered sugar: whisks into a simple glaze that finishes the loaf beautifully sift for a lump-free drizzle
- Salt to taste: highlights the sweetness and keeps the bread from tasting flat
- Nonstick cooking spray: for easy loaf removal so you keep those cinnamon swirls intact
Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Pan:
- Spray a 9 by 5 inch loaf pan with nonstick cooking spray making sure to cover the corners this prevents sticking and gives you a perfect loaf every time
- Mix the Cinnamon Sugar:
- In a small bowl combine the light brown sugar and ground cinnamon until evenly mixed then set aside this forms those delicious swirls throughout the bread
- Prep the Apples:
- Peel and chop the apples into small pieces toss them with two tablespoons of granulated sugar to draw out juices and set aside while you make the batter the sugar boosts their natural flavor
- Cream the Butter and Sugar:
- In a large mixing bowl use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream the softened butter and the rest of the granulated sugar beat on medium speed for about three to five minutes until pale and fluffy this creates the structure for your loaf
- Add Eggs and Vanilla:
- Add the eggs one at a time beating well after each addition then mix in the vanilla extract this builds richness and makes the batter smooth
- Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl whisk together the flour baking powder and salt make sure everything is evenly distributed so your loaf rises perfectly
- Make the Batter:
- Add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture alternating with milk begin and end with dry ingredients mix just until blended do not overmix or your crumb may get tough
- Layer the Batter Apples and Cinnamon Sugar:
- Spoon half of the batter into the loaf pan spread evenly sprinkle half the cinnamon sugar mix on top then add half the sugared apples repeat with the remaining batter cinnamon sugar and apples this creates gorgeous layers of spice and fruit
- Bake:
- Place the pan in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit bake for fifty to sixty minutes check with a toothpick inserted in the center it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached
- Cool and Glaze:
- Cool the bread in the pan for ten minutes then remove it to a wire rack to cool completely in a small bowl mix powdered sugar with enough milk to make a thick but pourable glaze drizzle this over the cooled loaf for a bakeryworthy finish
- Slice and Serve:
- Cut into generous slices and enjoy as a snack breakfast or dessert serve warm for extra comfort

There is something about how the apples soften as they bake and mix with the rich cinnamon that always takes me back to baking with my grandmother on crisp fall afternoons. My favorite part is peeling the apples because I let the kids cut shapes with the extra peels while they watch the loaf rise behind the oven window.
Storage Tips
Keep the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days for the best texture. For longer storage wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to three months. I always freeze extra slices so I can quickly reheat them in the microwave for a cozy snack on a busy morning.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you are out of butter you can use an equal amount of coconut oil for a bit of extra flavor. Almond milk works just as well as regular milk so the recipe fits a dairy free diet too. Any firm apple will do but pears can also step in if apples are not on hand.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm slices with a pat of butter in the morning or top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert. The loaf pairs perfectly with hot coffee or cinnamon tea. For a party I like to cut it into cubes and serve with toothpicks as a sweet snack on a board.
History of Apple Fritters
Apple fritters have roots in both European and American baking where fried dough versions were popular at fairs and markets. This loaf version gives you all the flavors of classic apple fritters but in an easy sliceable form without the mess of frying.

Apple fritter bread looks so pretty on a brunch table and tastes just like a bakery treat. Enjoy every cinnamon-packed bite and do not forget an extra drizzle of glaze.
FAQ sur la recette
- → What type of apples works best?
Any variety can be used, but firm apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji provide excellent flavor and texture.
- → Can I substitute almond milk for regular milk?
Yes, almond milk can replace regular milk in equal amounts for a dairy-free alternative.
- → How do I know when the bread is done baking?
Insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the bread is ready.
- → Why alternate wet and dry ingredients?
Alternating keeps the batter tender and prevents overmixing, ensuring a light, fluffy texture.
- → How should I store leftover Apple Fritter Bread?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.