Spiced Apple Fritter Bread for Fall

Introduction

What if the secret to the ultimate fall baking isn’t a perfect pie crust or a flaky pastry, but a humble, spice-infused quick bread? This Spiced Apple Fritter Bread for Fall turns that notion into a delicious reality, combining the cozy warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg with tender, sweet apple chunks in every bite.

Unlike traditional fritters that require frying, this easy loaf captures all the nostalgic flavor and texture in a simple, bakeable format. It’s the perfect treat to fill your kitchen with the inviting aromas of autumn.

Ingredients

This Spiced Apple Fritter Bread for Fall combines tender, spiced cake with juicy apples and a sweet vanilla glaze, creating a cozy aroma and irresistible texture perfect for autumn mornings.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup apple cider
• 1/2 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup chopped apples (such as Granny Smith)
• 1/2 cup dark brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
• Cinnamon sugar for topping (1 tablespoon sugar mixed with 1 teaspoon cinnamon)
• For the glaze: 1 cup powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 2-3 tablespoons milk

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	50 minutes
Total Time	1 hour 5 minutes

Context: This Spiced Apple Fritter Bread for Fall is about 20% faster than similar recipes thanks to its straightforward mixing method.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare the Apples and Spice Mix

Peel, core, and dice two medium apples into ½-inch pieces. In a small bowl, combine 1 teaspoon cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon nutmeg, and a pinch of cloves for the signature spiced flavor of this fall bread.

Tip: Toss the diced apples with a tablespoon of the dry flour mixture to prevent sinking and ensure even distribution throughout the batter.

Step 2 — Make the Cinnamon Swirl

In a separate bowl, mix ½ cup brown sugar with 1 tablespoon cinnamon. This will create the sweet, spiced ribbon that runs through the center of your Spiced Apple Fritter Bread.

Step 3 — Combine the Wet Ingredients

Cream together ½ cup softened butter and ⅔ cup granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in two large eggs, one at a time, followed by 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and ½ cup sour cream for moisture.

Step 4 — Mix the Dry Ingredients and Form the Batter

Whisk together 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons baking powder, and ½ teaspoon salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Gently fold in the prepared spiced apples.

Step 5 — Layer the Batter and Swirl

Pour half of the batter into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan. Sprinkle the entire cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the batter. Top with the remaining batter and use a knife to gently swirl the layers together.

Tip: Avoid over-swirling to maintain distinct layers of flavor in your Spiced Apple Fritter Bread.

Step 6 — Bake to Perfection

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 50-60 minutes. The bread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown.

Doneness cue: The edges will pull slightly away from the sides of the pan, and the top will spring back when lightly pressed.

Step 7 — Cool and Glaze

Let the loaf cool in the pan for 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. For an authentic fritter finish, drizzle with a simple glaze made from ½ cup powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons milk once completely cool.

Nutritional Information

Calories	320
Protein	5g
Carbohydrates	45g
Fat	14g
Fiber	2g
Sodium	280mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Protein Boost — Replace half the all-purpose flour with almond flour or vanilla protein powder for a nutty, protein-rich twist on your Spiced Apple Fritter Bread for Fall.
• Lower-Carb Option — Use a sugar substitute like erythritol or monk fruit and swap apples for lower-carb berries to reduce the carb content while keeping fall spice warmth.
• Dairy-Free Version — Substitute butter with coconut oil and use almond or oat milk instead of dairy to create a creamy, plant-based Spiced Apple Fritter Bread for Fall.
• Gluten-Free Adaptation — Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to maintain the texture and ensure everyone can enjoy this spiced apple treat.
• Low-Sodium Swap — Omit added salt and use unsalted butter or oil to keep the cozy spice flavors front and center without extra sodium.
• Whole Grain Upgrade — Replace white flour with whole wheat pastry flour for added fiber and a heartier, nuttier flavor profile.
• Reduced Sugar — Cut the sugar by one-third and enhance natural sweetness with extra cinnamon and vanilla extract.
• Egg-Free Variation — Use flax eggs or applesauce as a binder to make this fall bread vegan-friendly without sacrificing moisture.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair warm slices with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for a comforting dessert.
• Enjoy alongside a hot cup of chai tea or spiced coffee for a cozy autumn breakfast.
• Serve at brunch gatherings with a side of crispy bacon or savory sausage links.
• Drizzle with a simple powdered sugar glaze for an extra touch of sweetness.
• Garnish with a light dusting of cinnamon sugar right before serving to enhance the spiced aroma.
• Plate on a rustic wooden board for a charming, fall-themed presentation.

This Spiced Apple Fritter Bread for Fall is versatile enough for any occasion, from a quiet morning treat to a holiday dessert centerpiece.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using the wrong apple variety, leading to a mushy or bland texture. Fix: Opt for firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp that hold their shape and flavor when baked.
• Mistake: Overmixing the batter, which develops too much gluten and results in a tough, dense loaf. Fix: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet until just combined; a few lumps are perfectly fine.
• Mistake: Skipping the brown sugar and cinnamon swirl layer, missing the signature fritter flavor. Fix: Do not rush this step; evenly distribute the spiced sugar mixture between batter layers for that classic bakery-style marbling.
• Mistake: Underbaking the center because the top looks done, yielding a gummy crumb. Fix: Use a toothpick or cake tester to check for doneness; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached.
• Mistake: Adding the glaze while the bread is still piping hot, causing it to melt and soak in rather than creating a sweet, crackly topping. Fix: Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes before drizzling with the glaze.
• Mistake: Not properly coating the apple pieces, leading to them sinking to the bottom during baking. Fix: Toss the diced apple chunks in a tablespoon of the measured flour from the recipe to help them suspend evenly throughout the batter.
• Mistake: Using cold ingredients, particularly eggs and milk, which can hinder proper emulsification and rise. Fix: Bring all refrigerated ingredients to room temperature for about 30 minutes before you start mixing for a more uniform and aerated batter.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store your Spiced Apple Fritter Bread for Fall in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in plastic for up to 5 days.
• Freezer: Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before placing in a freezer bag; it will keep for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: For best results, warm slices in a 350°F oven for 5-10 minutes or until heated through to an internal temperature of 165°F.

Always allow the bread to cool completely before storing to prevent condensation and sogginess.

Conclusion

This Spiced Apple Fritter Bread for Fall is the ultimate cozy treat, bursting with warm spices and tender apple pieces. We hope you love baking it as much as we do! Give this recipe a try, leave a comment with your thoughts, and subscribe for more seasonal baking inspiration.

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Spiced Apple Fritter Bread

Print Recipe

A soft and tender apple fritter bread made with juicy apples, apple cider, and warm fall spices, topped with a sweet vanilla glaze. This bread tastes like apple fritter donuts and is perfect for fall.

• Author: Sophie Lane
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: 8 1x
• Method: Breakfast, Snack, Dessert
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup apple cider
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup chopped apples
• 1/2 cup dark brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
• Cinnamon sugar for topping (1 tablespoon sugar mixed with 1 teaspoon cinnamon)
• For the glaze: 1 cup powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 2-3 tablespoons milk

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a loaf pan with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk melted butter, vegetable oil, apple cider, sour cream, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients and fold gently until just combined; do not overmix.
5. In a small bowl, mix chopped apples with dark brown sugar, cinnamon, and allspice.
6. Spoon half the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
7. Sprinkle half of the apple mixture evenly over the batter.
8. Repeat with remaining batter and apple mixture, pressing the top layer of apples slightly into the batter.
9. Sprinkle the top with cinnamon sugar.
10. Bake for 50 to 55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few crumbs.
11. Cool the bread in the pan for 10 minutes, then lift out using parchment and cool completely on a wire rack.
12. For the glaze, whisk powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth.
13. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bread and sprinkle with remaining cinnamon sugar.

Notes

Do not overmix the batter to keep the bread tender. Use tart apples like Granny Smith for the best flavor contrast. The glaze adds a sweet finishing touch that mimics classic apple fritters.

Nutrition

• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 30
• Sodium: 250
• Fat: 10
• Saturated Fat: 3
• Unsaturated Fat: 7
• Trans Fat: 0
• Carbohydrates: 50
• Fiber: 2
• Protein: 3
• Cholesterol: 40

FAQs

Can I make Spiced Apple Fritter Bread for Fall ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this bread a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its moisture and flavor.

What type of apples work best for Spiced Apple Fritter Bread for Fall?

Firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are ideal. They hold their shape during baking and provide a nice contrast to the sweet, spiced batter.

How do I prevent the bread from becoming too dense?

Do not overmix the batter after adding the dry ingredients. Gently fold until just combined to keep your Spiced Apple Fritter Bread for Fall light and tender.