Pin A moist, tender loaf bursting with caramelized apples, the nostalgic flavor of cream soda, and a buttery biscuit-muffin crumb. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.
This loaf reminds me of lazy weekend mornings with my family, when we'd experiment with sweet breads and sit together for breakfast. The cream soda twist adds a playful touch that always brings a smile.
Ingredients
- Fruit & Filling: 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, diced, 2 tbsp unsalted butter, 1/3 cup light brown sugar, 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon, Pinch of salt
- Wet Ingredients: 1/2 cup (120 ml) cream soda (not diet), 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, melted and cooled, 2 large eggs, at room temperature, 1/2 cup (120 ml) whole milk, 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Dry Ingredients: 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar, 2 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp baking soda, 1/2 tsp salt
- Biscuit Topping: 1/3 cup (40 g) all-purpose flour, 2 tbsp granulated sugar, 2 tbsp cold unsalted butter, cubed, Pinch of salt
- Caramel Drizzle: 1/4 cup (60 ml) caramel sauce, for drizzling
Instructions
- Prepare Pan and Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9x5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
- Caramelize Apples:
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tbsp butter. Add diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring, until apples are caramelized and softened (about 5–7 minutes). Set aside to cool.
- Mix Wet Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, eggs, cream soda, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, combine flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Combine Batter:
- Fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Add Apples:
- Gently fold in the caramelized apples.
- Fill Pan:
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
- Prepare Biscuit Topping:
- Combine flour, sugar, and salt in a small bowl. Cut in the cold butter with a pastry blender or fingers until crumbly. Sprinkle evenly over the loaf batter.
- Bake:
- Bake for 50–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool & Finish:
- Cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Drizzle with caramel sauce before serving.
Pin We loved slicing this loaf for a cozy movie night. The apple aroma had everyone lingering in the kitchen, waiting for a warm slice and drizzle of extra caramel.
Required Tools
9x5-inch loaf pan, mixing bowls, whisk, skillet, pastry blender (or fork), wire rack
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten), dairy, eggs. Caramel sauce may contain milk; always verify ingredient labels.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (based on 10 slices): 290 calories, 11 g fat, 44 g carbohydrates, 4 g protein.
Pin Serve slices warm with extra caramel sauce for the ultimate comfort treat. Enjoy with coffee or tea for a perfect start or finish to your day.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I use diet cream soda?
It's best to use regular cream soda, as diet versions may alter taste and texture.
- → What apples work well in this loaf?
Firm varieties like Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Granny Smith hold their texture and offer balanced sweetness.
- → How do I know when it's fully baked?
Check for a golden top and insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean with no wet batter.
- → Can I add nuts or other fruits?
Yes. Pecans, walnuts, or substituting pears for apples can add extra flavor and texture.
- → How long does the loaf stay fresh?
Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.