Apple Cinnamon Swirl Loaf with Lemon Vinaigrette – A Flavor Fusion You’ll Love

This Homemade Apple Cinnamon Swirl Loaf is everything you crave in a cozy baked treat—soft, moist, and layered with fragrant cinnamon and tender apple pieces. Perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a dessert with a warm cup of tea, this loaf brings the comforting flavors of fall into every slice. Made with wholesome ingredients and a lightened-up twist, it’s a satisfying way to enjoy the taste of freshly baked apple bread without the heavy calories.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bursting with Apples – Fresh apple pieces add natural sweetness and moisture.
Perfectly Swirled – A cinnamon swirl in every bite for a beautiful look and taste.
Lighter Ingredients – Greek yogurt and unsweetened applesauce keep it moist without extra fat.
Freezes Well – Make ahead and enjoy a slice whenever the craving strikes.

Ingredients

For the loaf:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup whole wheat flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• ¼ tsp nutmeg
• 2 tbsp light butter, melted
• ⅓ cup unsweetened applesauce
• ⅓ cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt
• ⅓ cup brown sugar (or preferred sweetener)
• 2 tbsp granulated erythritol
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup diced apples (peeled and chopped, any variety)

For the cinnamon swirl:

• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp cinnamon

Instructions

Preheat Oven and Prep Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.

Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix the melted butter, applesauce, Greek yogurt, brown sugar, erythritol, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Fold in Apples
Stir the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined. Gently fold in the diced apples.

Create the Cinnamon Swirl
In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and cinnamon. Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan, sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture on top, then add the remaining batter. Sprinkle the rest of the cinnamon-sugar on top, using a knife to gently swirl it through the batter.

Bake and Cool
Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Nutritional Information (Per Slice)

Calories: 125
Protein: 3g
Fat: 3g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Sugar: 8g
Fiber: 2g

Tips for Success

• Choose Crisp Apples – Varieties like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith hold up well during baking.
• Perfect Your Swirl – A light hand with the knife will create a beautiful cinnamon pattern.
• Don’t Overmix – Stir just until the flour disappears for the softest texture.
• Freeze for Later – Slice and freeze individually for quick morning treats.

Why This Recipe Works

By blending whole wheat flour with all-purpose and using Greek yogurt and applesauce for moisture, this loaf stays tender and flavorful while keeping things light. The cinnamon swirl adds just the right amount of sweetness and visual appeal, making each slice a little celebration of fall flavors.

This Homemade Apple Cinnamon Swirl Loaf is a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of freshly baked apples and warm cinnamon, all wrapped up in a perfectly moist loaf. Whether it’s breakfast, a snack, or dessert, this simple recipe brings comfort and nostalgia with every bite.