Cinnamon Sugar Swirled Apple Butter Bread Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful twist on classic apple bread, I can’t wait for you to try this Cinnamon Sugar Swirled Apple Butter Bread Recipe. It’s got that perfect balance of tender crumb, a sweet cinnamon swirl, and juicy chunks of Honeycrisp apples that almost melt into the bread as it bakes. I absolutely love how this turns out – the cream cheese swirl adds a luscious creaminess that makes every bite feel like a little celebration. Trust me, once you make this, your kitchen will be filled with incredible aromas and your friends and family will be lining up for a slice.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient here plays a role in building layers of flavor — from the warm cinnamon sugar swirl to the moist, tender batter. Choosing ripe Honeycrisp apples ensures you get that sweet crunch without any bitterness, and using cream cheese adds an unexpected richness.

• Granulated sugar: For sweetness and to combine nicely with cinnamon for the swirl.
• Cinnamon: The essential warm spice that makes this bread feel like fall wrapped in a loaf.
• Coconut oil: Adds moisture and subtle richness with a hint of nuttiness, plus it’s a great dairy alternative if needed.
• Apple butter: This is the soul of the recipe, bringing that deep apple flavor and sweetness.
• Yogurt or sour cream: I love using yogurt here because it keeps the crumb tender and moist without weighing down the bread.
• Large egg: Helps bind everything together and adds structure.
• Vanilla extract: Lifts the flavors, rounding out the sweetness beautifully.
• Honey: Adds a natural sweet depth that complements the apple butter perfectly.
• Milk: Keeps the batter smooth and easy to swirl.
• All-purpose or whole wheat pastry flour: I’ve tried both — whole wheat pastry flour gives a nice nuttier note but all-purpose keeps it classic and light.
• Baking soda: Leavens the bread so it’s light and airy.
• Kosher salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
• Honeycrisp apples: Their sweetness and texture hold up wonderfully in the bread, making sure you get apple bites in every slice.
• Cream cheese: The star of the swirl — makes the bread feel a little special with creaminess that contrasts the spices.
• Salted butter: Used in the honey butter topping to add richness and a bit of savory balance.

Variations

I love playing around with this recipe depending on the season or what I have on hand. Sometimes, I swap the apples for pears or even add chopped nuts for a little crunch. Feel free to make it your own — that’s the fun part!

• Apple Variety Swap: Fuji or Gala apples work well if Honeycrisp aren’t available; just adjust cooking time if they’re softer varieties.
• Dairy-Free Version: Use vegan cream cheese and coconut yogurt to keep this recipe fully plant-based and delicious.
• Nutty Addition: Fold in a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans for texture and a toasty flavor contrast.
• Spice Boost: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ground cloves to the cinnamon sugar for a cozy, spiced twist.

How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Swirled Apple Butter Bread Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and prep your pan

First things first: preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously butter a 9×5 inch bread pan. I find that properly greasing your pan ensures the bread slips right out after baking — nobody wants a broken loaf! You can also line it with parchment paper for extra insurance.

Step 2: Mix your cinnamon sugar swirl

In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar with the cinnamon. This mix is what makes the swirls so irresistible throughout the bread, giving it that warm, sweet layer you’ll spot as you slice. Set it aside for now.

Step 3: Whisk together the wet ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, stir together the melted coconut oil, apple butter, honey, yogurt (or sour cream), egg, vanilla extract, and milk until everything is smooth. This combo provides moisture, flavor, and a little tanginess that balances the sweetness beautifully.

Step 4: Add the dry ingredients

Sprinkle in the flour, baking soda, and kosher salt, then gently mix just until combined. The key here is not to overmix — you want a tender crumb, so stop as soon as you can’t see dry flour anymore.

Step 5: Assemble the layers

Spoon half of your batter into the prepared bread pan and smooth it out. Next, dollop teaspoon-sized amounts of cream cheese all over this first layer. Then, grab a sharp paring knife and gently swirl the cream cheese into the batter — this is the magical moment that sets this bread apart!

Now, evenly spread your chopped Honeycrisp apples over the cream cheese. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture on top, then carefully spoon the remaining batter over the apples. Don’t stress if the apples peek through — that just means you’ll have those beautiful fruity bites. Finish by sprinkling the rest of the cinnamon sugar on top.

Step 6: Baking time

Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until the center is just set and a toothpick inserted near the middle comes out with a few moist crumbs. I usually cover the bread loosely with foil midway through baking to prevent the top from getting too dark — this little trick saved several loaves in my kitchen!

Step 7: Make the honey butter while you wait

While the bread bakes, mix the softened butter with honey and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. This honey butter is what takes each slice to the next level — spread it warm, and you’ll see what I mean.

Step 8: Cool and enjoy

Once baked, let your Cinnamon Sugar Swirled Apple Butter Bread cool slightly in the pan before slicing. It’s tempting to dig in warm (and I fully encourage it), but a bit of cooling helps it set up nicely for clean slices.

How to Serve Cinnamon Sugar Swirled Apple Butter Bread Recipe

Garnishes

I love topping my slices with a generous pat of the homemade honey butter or even a sprinkle of flaky sea salt to highlight the sweet and salty contrast. If you’re feeling fancy, a dusting of powdered sugar gives it a lovely finishing touch. On chilly mornings, a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of warm caramel sauce turns it into a treat!

Side Dishes

This bread pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or spiced chai tea. If you want a heartier breakfast, serve alongside scrambled eggs or a simple green salad for a delightful brunch. My family also loves it with creamy yogurt mixed with honey and granola for a balanced morning treat.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I like to slice this bread and arrange the pieces on a rustic wooden board with bowls of honey butter, assorted jams, and fresh apple slices. It makes for a charming fall-themed spread at gatherings. You can also cut the bread into mini squares for bite-sized treats perfect for brunches or tea parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I keep leftover bread tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container on the counter for up to 3 days. The coconut oil helps keep it moist so it doesn’t dry out quickly. If I’m saving it longer, the fridge works, but it can dry a bit faster there.

Freezing

Freezing is a lifesaver! I slice my bread beforehand, wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap and then pop into a freezer bag. When you want a slice, just thaw at room temperature or warm it up in the toaster oven – it tastes almost like fresh-baked.

Reheating

To revive leftover slices, I love toasting them lightly or warming in the microwave for 15-20 seconds with a dab of honey butter on top. This brings back the softness and makes the cream cheese swirl super melty and irresistible.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Cinnamon Sugar Swirled Apple Butter Bread Recipe holds a special place in my heart — it’s the kind of homemade comfort that brings smiles and cozy moments around the kitchen table. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is straightforward and incredibly rewarding. Give it a try, and I promise you’ll be baking it again and again for family breakfasts, holiday treats, or just because. Happy baking, friend!

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