01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease and line a 9x5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
02 - In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Cook, stirring, until apples are caramelized and soft, about 5–7 minutes. Set aside to cool.
03 - In a large mixing bowl, whisk together melted butter, eggs, cream soda, milk, and vanilla extract until thoroughly blended.
04 - In a second bowl, mix flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until evenly distributed.
05 - Fold dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula, blending until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
06 - Gently fold in caramelized apple mixture until evenly dispersed throughout the batter.
07 - Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and level the surface.
08 - In a small bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in cold cubed butter using a pastry blender or fork until a crumbly texture forms. Scatter evenly over batter.
09 - Bake in preheated oven for 50–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center exits clean.
10 - Let cool in pan for 15 minutes, then transfer loaf to a wire rack. Drizzle surface with caramel sauce just prior to serving.