Bring the nostalgic flavor of apple fritters into your kitchen—no frying required. This Apple Fritter Bread is a moist, tender loaf infused with spiced apples, cinnamon, and a hint of vanilla, finished with a silky glaze that ties everything together. It’s a modern take on an old-world favorite, offering all the coziness of baked apples without the grease and mess of deep frying.
Rooted in traditional European fruit-laced breads, this recipe offers a slice of culinary comfort with a healthier and more accessible approach. Whether enjoyed as a breakfast treat, dessert, or afternoon snack, Apple Fritter Bread delivers irresistible flavor and homemade charm.
Ingredients for Apple Fritter Bread
For the Bread
- All-purpose flour – 1½ cups
- Butter (softened) – ½ cup
- Granulated sugar – ⅔ cup
- Eggs – 2 large
- Milk – ½ cup
- Baking soda – 1¾ teaspoons
- Pure vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon
For the Apple Filling
- Apples (peeled and cubed) – 2 medium
- Brown sugar – ⅓ cup
- Ground cinnamon – 1 teaspoon
For the Glaze
- Powdered sugar – ½ cup
- Milk – 1 to 2 tablespoons (adjust for desired consistency)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan, or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Set the pan aside.
Mix the Apple Filling
In a medium bowl, combine the cubed apples, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Stir until the apples are fully coated in the sugary spice blend. Let this mixture sit while you prepare the batter—the sugar will start to draw out some of the apple’s natural juices, adding flavor and moisture to the bread.
Cream the Base
In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until the texture is smooth and light, about 2–3 minutes. This step helps incorporate air, giving the bread a tender crumb.
Add Dry Ingredients and Milk
Gradually add the flour and baking soda to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Slowly pour in the milk, continuing to mix until the batter is thick and even. Don’t overmix—doing so can make the bread dense.
Fold in the Apples
Gently fold the prepared apple mixture into the batter using a spatula. Try to distribute the apples evenly throughout the mixture, but don’t stir too vigorously or you’ll lose volume.
Transfer to Pan and Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Smooth the top with the back of a spoon or spatula to ensure an even rise. Bake for 55 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
If the top begins to brown too quickly, tent the bread loosely with aluminum foil during the last 15 minutes of baking.
Prepare the Glaze
While the bread is baking, whisk together ½ cup of powdered sugar with 1 to 2 tablespoons of milk until you reach a smooth, pourable consistency. Set aside.
Glaze and Serve
Once the bread is fully baked, let it cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. While it’s still slightly warm, drizzle the glaze over the top, letting it run down the sides naturally. Allow the bread to cool further before slicing—this gives the glaze time to set and the flavors time to meld.
Tips for the Best Apple Fritter Bread
Use Tart Apples
Tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp balance the sweetness of the glaze and the sugar in the batter. They also hold their shape better during baking.
Don’t Skip Softening the Butter
Soft butter ensures a smooth, even mix and helps trap air for a lighter texture. Take it out of the fridge about 30 minutes before starting.
Let the Bread Cool Before Slicing
Warm bread is tempting, but slicing too early can make the crumb gummy. Let the loaf cool at least 30 minutes before cutting for the cleanest slices.
Double the Recipe
This bread freezes well, so consider making two loaves. Wrap the extra in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight bag in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Serving Ideas
Apple Fritter Bread is wonderfully versatile. Try serving it:
- With morning coffee for a sweet start to your day
- As a dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream
- To guests as part of a brunch spread
- To kids as a lunchbox treat or after-school snack
You can even toast a slice lightly and spread it with a pat of butter or cream cheese for an extra indulgent touch.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of fruit?
Yes! This recipe also works well with pears, peaches, or berries. Just be sure to adjust the sugar depending on how sweet or tart the fruit is.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Absolutely. Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Check that your baking soda and other ingredients are certified gluten-free as well.
How should I store leftover bread?
Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze slices individually wrapped in plastic wrap.
Can I make this without the glaze?
Yes. The glaze adds sweetness and a classic fritter-style finish, but the bread is still flavorful without it. You can also dust it with powdered sugar instead.
What’s the best way to reheat it?
To enjoy a slice warm, microwave it for about 10–15 seconds. If you’re reheating multiple slices, you can warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 8–10 minutes.
Conclusion
Apple Fritter Bread brings all the cozy flavors of fall into your home with a recipe that’s simple, satisfying, and wonderfully aromatic. It’s the perfect fusion of sweet fruit, warm spice, and moist, buttery bread—elevated by a delicate glaze that ties it all together. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this no-fry take on the apple fritter will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Bake a loaf, slice it up, and enjoy the comfort of homemade goodness in every bite.