Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with non-stick spray or line it with foil and spray with non-stick spray for easy removal after baking.
- Prepare the Brown Sugar and Cinnamon Mixture: In a small bowl, mix together the 1/3 cup light brown sugar and 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon. Set aside for later.
- Make the Batter: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, beat together the 2/3 cup white sugar and 1/2 cup softened butter using an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Beat in the 2 eggs, one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Add in the 1 1/2 teaspoons of vanilla extract and mix well.
- Combine the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 3/4 teaspoons of baking powder. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until fully combined. Once the batter is smooth, mix in the 1/2 cup of milk until the batter is smooth and well-combined.
- Layer the Bread: Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly. Then, sprinkle half of the chopped apples over the batter, followed by half of the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture. Lightly pat the apples into the batter to help them settle.
- Add the Remaining Batter and Topping: Pour the remaining batter over the apple layer, smoothing it out evenly. Add the remaining chopped apples on top, followed by the rest of the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture. Gently pat the apples into the batter, then use a knife or spoon to swirl the brown sugar mixture through the apples, creating a marbled effect.
- Bake the Bread: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown, and the bread should be firm to the touch.
- Make the Glaze: While the bread cools, make the glaze by mixing the 1/2 cup powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons milk or cream together in a small bowl. Stir until smooth and well-combined. You can adjust the consistency by adding more milk or powdered sugar, depending on your preference.
- Cool and Glaze the Bread: Once the bread has finished baking, allow it to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. After cooling, drizzle the glaze evenly over the top of the bread. Allow the glaze to set before slicing and serving.
Notes: