Apple Cider Cinnamon Swirl Bread

Ingredients:

• 1 cup apple cider (instead of water)
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 1/2 cups diced apples (coat with a little flour to absorb excess moisture)
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup butter (softened)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Topping:

• 1/4 cup butter (melted)
• 2 tablespoons cinnamon sugar (mix equal parts cinnamon and sugar)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan or line with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the apple cider, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir until sugar is dissolved. Set aside.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
4. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and eggs until smooth. Add vanilla extract and stir in the apple cider mixture. Mix until combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until fully incorporated. Gently fold in the diced apples (make sure they’re coated in flour).
6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.
7. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Once baked, remove from oven and let cool slightly. Drizzle the melted butter over the top, then sprinkle with cinnamon sugar.
9. Allow it to cool for about 10 minutes, then slice and enjoy however you like—plain, toasted with butter, or even as French toast!

This bread sounds so versatile and delicious, perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack. Let me know how it turns out if you give it a try!