Cinnamon Sugar Swirled Apple Butter Bread Recipe

I absolutely love this Cinnamon Sugar Swirled Apple Butter Bread Recipe because it feels like a warm hug in bread form. The combination of tender, moist cake-like texture with sweet-tart apples and that classic cinnamon sugar swirl makes every bite so comforting. It’s perfect for cozy mornings, afternoon tea, or whenever you want that seasonal flavor to fill your kitchen.

When I first tried this recipe, I was amazed at how the apple butter and cream cheese swirled through the bread gave it such a rich and layered flavor. If you’re looking for something special to serve for brunch or to bring to a friend’s gathering, this bread is a total crowd-pleaser. Plus, the honey butter on top takes it to the next level — sweet, silky, and so easy to whip up!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients come together to give you a moist, flavorful bread with a cinnamon sugar swirl that’s perfectly complemented by apple butter and fresh apples. I always recommend using Honeycrisp apples for their sweet-tart crunch that holds up well in baking.

• Granulated sugar: Essential for the cinnamon sugar swirl that brings that classic warm flavor.
• Cinnamon: Use good quality ground cinnamon for the best aroma and spice.
• Coconut oil: Gives a subtle richness and keeps the bread tender; melted for easy mixing.
• Apple butter: Adds depth of apple flavor and natural sweetness; store-bought or homemade both work fine.
• Yogurt or sour cream: Adds moisture and a slight tang to balance the sweetness.
• Large egg: Helps bind the ingredients and contributes to the bread’s structure.
• Vanilla extract: Brings out all the warm flavors in the bread.
• Honey: Adds natural sweetness and contributes to the moist crumb.
• Milk: Helps achieve the perfect batter consistency.
• All-purpose flour or whole wheat pastry flour: Either works; whole wheat pastry flour keeps it a bit heartier.
• Baking soda: Leavens the bread for a nice rise.
• Kosher salt: Enhances all the sweet flavors.
• Honeycrisp apples, chopped: Adds fresh bursts of juicy apple in every slice.
• Cream cheese (room temperature): Swirled into the bread for creamy pockets of tangy richness.
• Salted butter and honey (for honey butter): The perfect finish slathered warm on slices.

Variations

I love how this Cinnamon Sugar Swirled Apple Butter Bread Recipe invites you to get creative. Whether you want a healthier twist or plan to swap out flavors depending on the season, there’s a way to make it your own.

• Use whole wheat pastry flour: I often substitute this for a nuttier flavor and added fiber without sacrificing tenderness.
• Swap apples for pears or berries: When I tried pears, the texture was softer but just as delicious—experiment with what’s fresh and ripe!
• Make it dairy-free: Replace cream cheese with a dairy-free vegan cream cheese and use coconut yogurt for the tanginess.
• Add nuts or raisins: Toasted walnuts or raisins make for a nice crunch or chewy surprise in some slices.

How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Swirled Apple Butter Bread Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Cinnamon Sugar

First, preheat your oven to 350° F and generously butter a 9×5-inch bread pan. I always butter my pan really well to ensure the bread releases easily after baking. Now, mix your granulated sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl—that’s going to be your gorgeous swirl and sprinkle that takes the bread from simple to showstopper.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, stir together the melted coconut oil, apple butter, honey, yogurt (or sour cream), egg, vanilla extract, and milk until everything is nicely combined. When I mix this part by hand, I feel like I have more control over the consistency—plus, it’s satisfying watching it come together.

Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients and Fold in Apples

Now add the flour, baking soda, and kosher salt to the wet mixture and stir just until combined — overmixing can make the bread tough, so stop as soon as you don’t see any flour. Then gently fold in your chopped Honeycrisp apples, saving some for layering later if you like.

Step 4: Create the Cinnamon Sugar Swirl

Spoon half the batter into your prepared pan. Next, dollop teaspoon-sized bits of room temperature cream cheese evenly over the batter. Use a sharp paring knife to gently swirl the cream cheese into the batter — this part always feels like a little magic! Then, arrange chopped apples in an even layer over the cream cheese. Sprinkle half of your cinnamon sugar mixture on top.

Step 5: Top and Bake

Carefully spoon the remaining batter over the apples—it’s okay if some apples peek through; it just adds to the charm. Then sprinkle the rest of the cinnamon sugar on top for that signature sweet crunch. Bake for 55-65 minutes, checking after about 30 minutes—if the top is browning too quickly, loosely cover it with foil to prevent burning. When the center is just set and a toothpick comes out clean or with moist crumbs, it’s ready!

Step 6: Make the Honey Butter and Serve

While the bread is baking, mix room temperature salted butter with honey and a pinch of salt in a small bowl until smooth. Once your bread cools just a bit (but is still warm), slather on that honey butter—trust me, it’s the perfect finishing touch that will have everyone asking for the recipe.

How to Serve Cinnamon Sugar Swirled Apple Butter Bread Recipe

Garnishes

I love topping slices with an extra drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a little sparkle. Some chopped toasted pecans or walnuts add a nice crunchy contrast if you’re serving guests. When it’s a chilly day, a pat of softened butter or a dollop of warmed cream cheese frosting turns it into a real treat.

Side Dishes

Pairing this bread with a hot cup of chai tea or spiced apple cider feels perfect to me. It also goes great alongside creamy soups like butternut squash or pumpkin for a cozy fall lunch. If you’re serving breakfast or brunch, a side of scrambled eggs or a fresh fruit salad balances the sweetness wonderfully.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I like to slice the bread thick and arrange it on a wooden board with small bowls of different honey varieties and nut butters. Wrapping slices individually in parchment and tying with twine makes adorable edible gifts. You could even toast slices lightly, spread with honey butter, and top with thin apple slices for a chic appetizer twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually wrap leftover bread tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This keeps it soft and flavorful, though I find it’s best enjoyed within the first 48 hours for peak freshness.

Freezing

This bread freezes beautifully! I slice it first, then separate slices with parchment paper and store in a freezer-safe bag. When I want a quick snack or treat, I just pop a slice in the toaster or oven straight from the freezer.

Reheating

To bring back that freshly-baked warmth, I love reheating slices in a toaster oven at 325°F for about 5 minutes or warming in the microwave for 20-30 seconds, then topping with a pat of honey butter. This revives the softness and enhances the flavors without drying it out.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Cinnamon Sugar Swirled Apple Butter Bread Recipe enough—it’s a feel-good, fall-inspired delight that brings a bit of warmth and sweetness into everyday life. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, you’ll enjoy how straightforward it is to make and how impressive it tastes. Next time you want to cozy up your kitchen or wow your friends, give this recipe a try. Trust me, this bread will quickly become one of your favorites too!

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