Introduction

This Spiced Apple Butter Loaf is a cozy, moist treat perfect for fall or any time you crave warm spices and apple goodness. Topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting swirled with apple butter, it’s a delightful twist on classic quick bread that’s sure to impress.

A rectangular loaf cake sits on white parchment paper, resting on a white marbled surface. The cake has two visible layers: the bottom layer is a rich, dark brown spongy bread with a fine crumb, while the top layer is thick creamy frosting swirled with caramel-colored streaks, creating a marbled effect. Two slices are cut from the loaf, revealing the smooth creamy filling sandwiched between the darker cake layers. A red and green apple is placed near the top left corner of the parchment paper. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups (260 g) all-purpose flour
1 tsp (6 g) baking soda
½ tsp (3 g) baking powder
½ tsp (3 g) salt
1 ½ tsp (4.5 g) ground cinnamon
½ tsp (1.5 g) ground allspice
½ tsp (1.5 g) ground nutmeg
¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar
½ cup (125 ml) vegetable oil
2 large eggs
¾ cup (210 g) apple butter
½ cup (125 ml) buttermilk

Cream Cheese Frosting

½ stick (56 g) butter, softened
¾ cup (100 g) icing sugar
4 oz (113 g) cold cream cheese
3 tbsp (52 g) apple butter
Extra apple butter, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, allspice, and nutmeg. Set aside.
Step 2: In a separate bowl, combine the sugar, vegetable oil, and eggs. Whisk until smooth.
Step 3: Add the apple butter and buttermilk to the wet mixture and whisk until fully combined.
Step 4: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined without overmixing.
Step 5: Spray a 9x5x2.75-inch loaf pan with non-stick spray. Pour the batter in and smooth the top.
Step 6: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the loaf for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the top springs back when touched.
Step 7: Cool the loaf in the pan for 5 to 10 minutes, then run a knife around the edges and remove it onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 8: For the frosting, beat the softened butter and icing sugar until crumbly but well combined.
Step 9: Cut the cold cream cheese into cubes and add to the mixture. Beat until the frosting is thick, creamy, and smooth.
Step 10: Blend in 3 tablespoons apple butter until fully incorporated.
Step 11: Spread the frosting over the cooled loaf, then spoon extra apple butter on top and swirl decoratively.
Step 12: Refrigerate the loaf if storing overnight. Serve and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

For extra moisture and flavor, substitute half the vegetable oil with melted butter.
Use homemade or store-bought apple butter; both work well in this recipe.
Try adding chopped nuts or raisins to the batter for added texture.
If you don’t have buttermilk, use regular milk with 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar added, let sit 5 minutes before use.

Storage

Store the apple butter loaf covered in the refrigerator, especially after frosting, for up to 3 days. Bring to room temperature before serving for best flavor. The unfrosted loaf can be kept at room temperature for 1 to 2 days wrapped tightly.

How to Serve

A rectangular chocolate cake with one slice cut and placed in front, three layers visible: a thick and moist dark brown cake base, a thick creamy white frosting layer on top, and a caramel sauce drizzled over the frosting creating uneven swirls. The cake rests on white parchment paper on a white marbled surface. In the background are red and green apples, a wooden stand with a jar of dark spread, a lit candle with melted wax dripping down its side, and ceramic vessels. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this loaf gluten-free?

You can substitute a gluten-free flour blend for the all-purpose flour, but be sure it’s one meant for baking. The texture may vary slightly, so check the loaf a few minutes before the minimum baking time.

Can I freeze the apple butter loaf?

Yes, freeze the cooled unfrosted loaf wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and frost just before serving for best results.