Cream Soda Caramel Apple Loaf (Print)

Moist loaf bursting with caramelized apples, cream soda, and buttery crumb. Ideal for breakfast or dessert.

# Components:

→ Fruit & Filling

01 - 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced
02 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
03 - 1/3 cup light brown sugar
04 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
05 - Pinch of salt

→ Wet Ingredients

06 - 1/2 cup cream soda (not diet)
07 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
08 - 2 large eggs, at room temperature
09 - 1/2 cup whole milk
10 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

→ Dry Ingredients

11 - 2 cups all-purpose flour
12 - 1/2 cup granulated sugar
13 - 2 teaspoons baking powder
14 - 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
15 - 1/2 teaspoon salt

→ Biscuit Topping

16 - 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
17 - 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
18 - 2 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cubed
19 - Pinch of salt

→ Caramel Drizzle

20 - 1/4 cup caramel sauce, for drizzling

# Method:

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.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Unique blend of cream soda and caramelized apple flavors
  • Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert
02 -
  • Use real cream soda for best results; diet versions may affect flavor and texture
  • This loaf contains wheat, milk, eggs, and caramel sauce may contain dairy; check labels if allergies are a concern
03 -
  • Do not overmix the batter or the crumb will be dense
  • Try substituting pears for apples or adding a handful of chopped pecans for variety