1-Preparing the apple filling: mix the chopped apples with 2 tablespoons granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon in a bowl to let the flavors meld.

2-Making the cinnamon sugar swirl: combine 1/3 cup packed light brown sugar with 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon and set it aside.

3-Making the loaf batter: cream 1/2 cup softened unsalted butter with 3/4 cup granulated sugar until light and fluffy, then add 2 large room-temperature eggs and 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract, mixing well. In another bowl, whisk together 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon table salt. Alternately add this dry mixture with 1/2 cup whole milk into the butter mixture, stirring gently to keep the batter smooth.

4-Assembling and Baking the Bread: Layer the batter in the prepared pan: start with half the batter, sprinkle the apple filling and cinnamon sugar swirl on top, then add the remaining batter. Use a knife to lightly drag through the layers, creating those signature cinnamon ribbons without over-mixing. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 55 to 65 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean; if the top browns too quickly, tent it with foil.

5-Cooling and glazing: After baking, cool the bread in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Once it’s slightly warm, drizzle on the glaze made from 1 cup confectioners’ sugar, 2-3 tablespoons whole milk, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract. This step ensures the glaze absorbs beautifully, enhancing the bread’s moist texture.