Heavenly Spiral of Sweetness: Apple Twist Bread Recipe

Weekends call for something special, and this apple twist bread recipe promises pure comfort right from your kitchen.

Warm, golden-brown swirls of soft dough intertwined with cinnamon-spiced apple filling create an irresistible aroma that fills every corner of your home.

Sweet apples nestled in delicate, buttery layers make this bread more than just a recipe—it’s a celebration of seasonal flavors.

Crisp autumn mornings or lazy weekend afternoons become extraordinary with each delectable slice.

The gentle balance of tender bread and caramelized fruit makes this recipe a true crowd-pleaser.

Bakers of all levels can master this delightful creation that transforms simple ingredients into a mouthwatering masterpiece.

One bite, and you’ll understand why this apple twist bread has become a cherished favorite in kitchens everywhere.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 3 hours

Cook Time: 40 minutes

Total Time: 3 hours 40 minutes

Calories: 397 kcal

Servings: 3

Everything You’ll Need for Cinnamon Apple Twist Bread

• All-Purpose Flour, Potato Flour: Creates a soft, tender bread structure with extra moisture and richness from potato flour.
• Granulated Sugar: Feeds yeast and adds subtle sweetness to the dough.
• Instant Yeast: Provides quick and reliable rising action for a fluffy texture.
• Salt: Enhances flavor and controls yeast growth.
• Soft Butter: Adds richness and helps create a tender crumb.
• Vanilla Extract: Introduces a warm, aromatic background flavor.
• Egg: Provides structure and richness to the bread.
• Milk: Activates yeast and creates a smooth, pliable dough.

• Apples, Lemon Juice: Prevents browning and adds bright, fresh flavor to the filling.
• Granulated Sugar, Cornstarch: Creates a thick, glossy apple mixture that won't become watery.
• Salt: Balances and intensifies the sweet apple flavor.
• Cinnamon: Delivers warm, classic spice that complements the apples.
• Walnuts or Pecans: Optional crunchy element that adds texture and nutty depth.

• Powdered Sugar: Creates a smooth, sweet topping.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds depth and aromatic sweetness.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness.
• Water or Apple Juice or Heavy Cream: Adjusts glaze consistency and adds subtle flavor variations.

Kitchen Gear for Swirling Cinnamon Apple Bread

• Large mixing bowl: Perfect for combining dry ingredients and kneading dough.
• Whisk: Essential for blending dry ingredients smoothly.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Crucial for accurate ingredient measurements.
• Rolling pin: Needed to roll out dough into precise rectangles.
• Baking sheet: Used for shaping and baking the bread.
• Sharp knife: Required for cutting dough logs lengthwise.
• Clean kitchen towel: Helpful for covering dough during rising.
• Small saucepan: Necessary for cooking apple filling.
• Grater: Used for preparing apple filling.
• Spatula: Useful for spreading filling and stirring ingredients.

Making Cinnamon Apple Twist Bread at Home

• Dough Preparation

Mix dry ingredients in a bowl. Add wet ingredients until a rough dough forms. Let the mixture rest to absorb liquid and develop flavor.

• First Rise

Knead the dough until soft and elastic. Place in a covered container and allow it to expand and become puffy for several hours.

• Apple Filling

Create a luscious apple mixture by combining grated apples with sweet and warming spices. Cook gently until the filling becomes thick and fragrant.

• Shaping

Roll out the dough into large rectangles. Spread the apple filling generously across the surface. Carefully roll the dough into long logs, then slice and intertwine them to create a beautiful braided shape.

• Final Rise and Baking

Let the shaped bread rest and grow in size. Bake in a warm oven until golden brown and your kitchen fills with an irresistible aroma.

• Finishing Touch

Allow the bread to cool completely. Drizzle with a sweet glaze that adds a delightful shine and extra layer of flavor.

Tips That Make This Bread a Go-To Treat

• Pro Tips for Perfect Twist Bread
• Let the dough rest before kneading to help flour absorb liquid, creating a softer, more tender bread texture with less effort.
• Choose firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best filling flavor and consistent cooking performance.
• Ensure ingredients are room temperature to help yeast activate properly and create a more consistent rise during proofing stages.
• When braiding the bread logs, keep consistent pressure and pinch ends tightly to prevent filling from leaking during baking.
• Wrap cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months, allowing you to enjoy fresh-tasting bread anytime with minimal preparation.

Best Ways to Slice and Serve Cinnamon Twist Bread

• Cozy Breakfast Companion: Serve thick slices alongside a steaming mug of coffee or hot cocoa for a delightful morning treat that warms both body and soul.
• Dessert Transformation: Cut into smaller pieces and plate with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, creating an elegant dessert that balances warm spices with cool creaminess.
• Brunch Centerpiece: Arrange slices on a rustic wooden board with fresh apple slices, chopped nuts, and a small dish of honey for a stunning brunch presentation that invites sharing and conversation.
• Gift with Love: Wrap individual slices in parchment paper and tie with twine for a homemade gift that shows personal care and baking passion.

Storage Advice for Cinnamon Apple Bread That Lasts

• Smart Storage Solutions: Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to maintain moisture and freshness for 3-4 days at room temperature.
• Freezer-Friendly Technique: Slice the bread before freezing, placing parchment paper between slices for easy individual serving. Frozen bread stays delicious up to 2 months when sealed in an airtight freezer bag.
• Refrigeration Strategy: Keep the bread in a sealed container for maximum freshness, consuming within 5 days. Gently warm individual slices in a toaster or microwave for a just-baked taste.
• Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare the dough and filling a day ahead, storing separately in the refrigerator. Allow ingredients to reach room temperature before assembling and baking for optimal texture and flavor.

Irresistible Apple Twist Bread Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 38 reviews

• Total Time: 3 hours 40 minutes
• Yield: 3 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Homemade apple twist bread blends classic German baking traditions with sweet cinnamon notes. Warm slices complement afternoon coffee while promising comforting flavors for passionate home bakers.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 ¼ cups (409 g) all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ tsps instant yeast
• 1 cup + 2 tbsps (250 ml) room-temperature or lukewarm milk
• 1 large egg
• 3 tbsps (45 ml) soft butter
• ¼ cup (30 g) potato flour OR ½ cup + 1 tbsp dry instant mashed potatoes, unflavored
• 3 tbsps (36 g) granulated sugar
• 1 ¼ tsps salt
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup (140 g) peeled, grated apple
• ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
• 3 tbsps (23 g) cornstarch OR 2 tbsps instant ClearJel
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/8 tsp salt
• 1 cup (100 g) chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
• 1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar
• 1 to 2 tbsps (15–30 ml) water or apple juice or 2 to 4 tbsps (30–60 ml) heavy cream
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/8 tsp salt

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Dough Preparation: Whisk dry ingredients in a large mixing bowl. Incorporate softened butter, vanilla extract, egg, and milk until a rough dough forms. Let the dough rest for 30 minutes to enhance gluten development and moisture absorption.
2. Kneading and Proofing: Knead the dough on a floured surface until smooth and slightly tacky. Transfer to a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and allow to rise for 1.5-2 hours or until doubled in volume.
3. Apple Filling Creation: Grate apples and immediately toss with lemon juice. Blend in sugar, cornstarch, salt, and cinnamon. Gently cook the mixture over low heat until thickened, then cool completely to room temperature.
4. Dough Shaping: Divide risen dough into two equal portions. Roll each into a 10×12 inch rectangle. Spread cooled apple filling evenly, optionally sprinkle nuts. Roll each rectangle into a log, sealing edges carefully.
5. Braiding Technique: Slice each log lengthwise into four strips. Intertwine two strips to create an intricate braided pattern. Position the twisted loaves on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between them.
6. Final Proofing and Baking: Allow loaves to rise for 1-2 hours. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 30-40 minutes, covering with foil if browning too quickly. Confirm doneness by checking internal temperature of 190°F (88°C).
7. Finishing Touches: Remove from oven and cool on a wire rack for one hour. Drizzle with prepared glaze. Serve fresh or store in an airtight container for later enjoyment.

Notes

• Master Dough Resting: Allow 30-minute initial rest to develop gluten and improve bread texture, enhancing overall flavor and structure.
• Precise Proofing Time: Monitor first and second rise carefully; 90-120 minutes for initial rise and 60-120 minutes for final rise ensure optimal bread volume and softness.
• Apple Filling Trick: Immediately toss grated apples with lemon juice to prevent browning and create a vibrant, fresh filling that maintains color and prevents oxidation.
• Baking Temperature Control: Watch bread closely during baking; tent with foil if surface browns too quickly and ensure internal temperature reaches 190°F for perfectly cooked bread.

• Prep Time: 3 hours
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Breakfast, Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 3
• Calories: 397
• Sugar: 27 g
• Sodium: 300 mg
• Fat: 14 g
• Saturated Fat: 8 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 60 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 7 g
• Cholesterol: 37 mg