Spiced Apple-Cinnamon Swirl Bread

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 3/4 cup warm milk (110°F)
• 1/4 cup warm water (110°F)
• 1 large egg
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large apple, peeled, cored, and diced (about 1 cup)
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter, softened (for swirl)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water with a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for 5–7 minutes until foamy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk warm milk, egg, melted butter, vanilla extract, and the yeast mixture.
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and mix until a soft dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with dough hook for 6–7 minutes.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
5. Prepare the swirl mixture by mixing brown sugar, cinnamon, diced apple, and softened butter in a small bowl.
6. Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently and roll it into a 12x8 inch rectangle on a lightly floured surface. Spread the apple-cinnamon mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a small border on edges.
7. Roll the dough tightly into a log starting from the long side. Pinch seam to seal and place the log seam-side down in a greased 9x5 inch loaf pan. Cover and let rise for 30 minutes.
8. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the bread for 40–45 minutes or until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped. Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Chef tips

• Use a kitchen thermometer to ensure milk and water are warm (not hot) to activate the yeast properly.
• If you want extra moisture, sprinkle a tablespoon of water in the oven during the first 10 minutes of baking to create steam.
• Substitute the apple with pears or add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for texture and flavor variation.
• For a vegan version, use plant-based milk, replace egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water), and use vegan butter.