If you love the classic flavor of apple fritters but want something oven-baked and easy, you’ll fall for this Country Apple Fritter Bread. This loaf brings together tender chunks of cinnamon-sugar apples, a buttery vanilla batter, and swirls of brown sugar that caramelize as it bakes. The final touch? A creamy old-fashioned glaze drizzled on top. It’s like your favorite apple fritter transformed into a rustic, sliceable bread. Whether you’re a first-time baker or just craving something homey, this recipe will become your new favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There’s a lot to adore about Country Apple Fritter Bread—here’s why it’s always a hit:
- Warm and Spiced – Layers of cinnamon and brown sugar wrap the apples in a cozy hug.
- Beginner-Friendly – No mixer, no yeast, and super easy to assemble in layers.
- Perfect for Any Time – Enjoy it at breakfast, for dessert, or as a sweet snack.
- Crowd-Pleaser – The aroma alone will have everyone asking, “What’s baking?”
The Story Behind Country Apple Fritter Bread
How did this irresistible loaf come to be? The story is part tradition, part modern comfort:
- Inspired by Apple Fritters – A bakery staple turned into a sliceable, shareable treat.
- Rooted in Quick Breads – No rising time, just mix, layer, and bake.
- Country Kitchen Staple – Born from farm-fresh apples and pantry basics.
- Passed Down and Perfected – Shared from generation to generation, updated for today’s home cook.
Key Ingredients in Country Apple Fritter Bread
- Granny Smith Apples – Firm and tart, these hold up well while baking and provide a juicy bite.
- Brown Sugar & Cinnamon – Swirled through the batter for that signature fritter flavor.
- Softened Butter – Adds richness and creates a tender crumb.
- Milk or Almond Milk – Gives moisture without weighing the bread down.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances the warm, dessert-like aroma.
- Powdered Sugar Glaze – A sweet pour-over glaze that completes the classic fritter finish.
How to Make Country Apple Fritter Bread
A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners
- Preheat Oven & Prep the Pan
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9×5-inch loaf pan with non-stick spray and line with parchment or foil if desired. - Make the Cinnamon Swirl
In a small bowl, combine ⅓ cup brown sugar and 1 teaspoon cinnamon. Set aside for layering. - Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a bowl, whisk together 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour and 1 ¾ teaspoons baking powder. - Cream Butter and Sugar
Beat ½ cup softened butter with ⅔ cup sugar until creamy. Add 2 eggs, one at a time, then stir in 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract. - Combine and Blend
Add the flour mixture to the wet batter, alternating with ½ cup milk. Stir until smooth but don’t overmix. - Prepare Apple Filling
Peel and dice 2 large apples. Toss with 2 tablespoons sugar and 1 teaspoon cinnamon. - Layer the Batter
Pour half the batter into the loaf pan. Top with half the apple mixture and half the cinnamon-sugar mix. Repeat the layers and swirl gently with a knife. - Bake
Place in the oven and bake for about 60 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center. - Cool and Glaze
Let the loaf cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Mix ½ cup powdered sugar with 1–3 tablespoons of milk or cream for your glaze. Drizzle over the cooled loaf.
Country Apple Fritter Bread Tips and Twists
Want to take it up a notch? Try these ideas:
5 Tips for the Best Bread:
- Use room temperature ingredients for a smooth batter.
- Don’t overmix to avoid a tough texture.
- Bake on the center rack for even heat.
- Test with a toothpick around the 55-minute mark.
- Let cool completely before slicing for clean cuts.
3 Tasty Variations:
- Add ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch.
- Mix in raisins for added sweetness.
- Swap apples for pears or peaches in season.
Storage, Reheating, and Make-Ahead Tips
- Storage: Keep tightly wrapped at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 7.
- Reheating: Microwave individual slices for 10–15 seconds to warm and soften.
- Make-Ahead: You can bake a day in advance and glaze before serving to keep it fresh and moist.
Serving Suggestions
Here’s how to enjoy your Country Apple Fritter Bread to the fullest:
- Warm with Butter – A pat of butter on a warm slice is simple and heavenly.
- Topped with Ice Cream – Makes a cozy dessert with a scoop of vanilla bean.
- Brunch Platter – Pair with eggs, bacon, or fruit for a full spread.
- With Coffee or Tea – A morning or afternoon treat that feels like a hug in a cup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of apple?
Yes! Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Braeburn all work well.
Do I need to peel the apples?
Peeling is preferred for texture, but you can leave the skin on if you like it rustic.
Can I freeze this bread?
Absolutely. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature.
Is it okay to double the glaze?
Yes! If you’re a glaze lover, make a second batch and pour it on thick.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes—use plant-based butter and almond milk.
Enjoy Your Country Apple Fritter Bread
From the cinnamon sugar layers to the soft, glazed top, Country Apple Fritter Bread is everything you want in a homemade loaf. It’s sweet but not too sweet, comforting, and surprisingly simple to pull off—even if you’re not a frequent baker. Whether you enjoy it fresh out of the oven or toasted the next day, every bite is like a cozy embrace. So go on—gather your apples and treat yourself to a warm, nostalgic loaf today.
Explore More Recipes
Craving more cozy and beginner-friendly recipes? Try these from Abby’s kitchen next:
- Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Meatballs – A hearty, comforting dinner that simmers while you bake.
- Best Carrot Cake Cookies – Spiced just right and perfect for fall-themed dessert trays.
- Simple Avocado Toast with Egg – A savory balance to your sweet slice.
- Grilled Chicken Wraps – Quick, protein-packed wraps to pair with your apple loaf for lunch.
- No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake – When you want dessert without turning the oven back on.
Country Apple Fritter Bread
Ingredients
Brown Sugar/Cinnamon Mixture:
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
Apple Bread Batter:
- ½ cup unsalted butter softened
- ⅔ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs room temperature
- 1½ tsp vanilla extract
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1¾ tsp baking powder
- ½ cup milk or almond milk room temperature
Chopped Apple Mixture:
- 2 large Granny Smith apples peeled and chopped
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
Glaze:
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 –3 tbsp milk or cream adjust for desired thickness
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9×5-inch loaf pan with non-stick spray and line with parchment paper.
- In a small bowl, combine brown sugar and cinnamon. Set aside.
- Whisk flour and baking powder in a medium bowl. In another bowl, beat butter and sugar until creamy.
- Add eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla. Gradually mix in dry ingredients and milk until smooth.
- Toss chopped apples with sugar and cinnamon in a separate bowl.
- Pour half the batter into the pan, then layer with half the apple mixture and half the cinnamon-sugar mix.
- Repeat the layers. Swirl a knife through the loaf gently.
- Bake for 60 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool, then drizzle with glaze.