Apple Cinnamon Swirl Loaf

Apple Cinnamon Swirl Loaf

Cozy • Naturally Sweetened • Mediterranean-Inspired

Description

This homemade Apple Cinnamon Swirl Loaf captures everything we love about fall: tender apples, warming cinnamon, and a soft, moist crumb. Made with olive oil, yogurt, and lightly sweetened with honey or maple syrup, it’s a healthier Mediterranean-inspired take on a classic comfort bake. Perfect with tea, coffee, or as a lightly sweet breakfast slice.

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Ingredients (1 loaf, 8–10 slices)

Dry Ingredients

• 1½ cups whole wheat flour (or half whole wheat, half all-purpose)

• 1 tsp baking powder

• ½ tsp baking soda

• 1½ tsp ground cinnamon

• Pinch of salt

Wet Ingredients

• 2 large eggs

• ⅓ cup honey or maple syrup

• ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil (or light olive oil)

• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Apple Filling

• 1½ cups apple, peeled & finely diced

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• 1½ tsp cinnamon

• 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven
   Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a loaf pan.

2. Prepare apple swirl
   In a bowl, toss diced apples with lemon juice, cinnamon, and honey. Set aside.

3. Mix dry ingredients
   In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.

4. Mix wet ingredients
   In another bowl, whisk eggs, honey, olive oil, yogurt, and vanilla until smooth.

5. Combine
   Gently fold dry ingredients into wet until just combined.

6. Assemble loaf
   Pour half the batter into the pan. Spoon half the apple mixture over it.
   Add remaining batter, then top with remaining apples.
   Use a knife to gently swirl.

7. Bake
   Bake for 45–55 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean.

8. Cool & slice
   Cool 10–15 minutes before removing from pan.

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Serving Suggestions

• Enjoy warm with tea or coffee

• Spread with a little Greek yogurt or almond butter

• Lightly toast leftovers for breakfast

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Q & A

Q: Is this loaf healthy?
A: Yes! It uses olive oil, whole grains, fruit, and natural sweeteners—Mediterranean-style balance.

Q: Can I make it dairy-free?
A: Yes. Replace Greek yogurt with plant-based yogurt.

Q: Can I use applesauce instead of fresh apples?
A: Fresh apples are best for texture, but you can replace half the apples with applesauce for extra moisture.

Q: How do I store it?
A: Store covered at room temperature for 2 days, or refrigerate for 5 days. Freeze slices up to 2 months.

Q: Can I add nuts or raisins?
A: Absolutely! Walnuts, pecans, or raisins work beautifully.

Q: Can I make it sweeter?
A: Add 1–2 tbsp extra honey or a light dusting of powdered sugar on top.