Description
This indulgent Caramel Apple Cheddar Cookie loaf combines the tartness of fresh apples with sharp cheddar cheese and a luscious caramel swirl, baked into a moist, flavorful treat perfect for autumn gatherings or anytime you crave a sweet and savory dessert.
Ingredients
Scale
Fruit and Dairy
- 2 medium tart apples, peeled, cored, and diced
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup whole milk
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Extras
- 1/2 cup thick caramel sauce
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts, optional
Instructions
- Prepare Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the baked loaf.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, use a mixer or whisk to beat the softened unsalted butter with both granulated and light brown sugars until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and well combined.
- Add Eggs and Milk: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Then blend in the whole milk until you achieve a smooth batter.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, fine sea salt, and ground cinnamon to evenly distribute the leavening agents and spices.
- Integrate Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet batter, stirring gently until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep the loaf tender.
- Incorporate Apples and Cheese: Gently fold in the diced tart apples and shredded sharp cheddar cheese, ensuring even distribution throughout the batter.
- Transfer Batter to Pan: Spread the prepared batter evenly into the lined loaf pan, smoothing the top.
- Apply Caramel Swirl: Drizzle half of the thick caramel sauce over the top of the batter, then use a knife to swirl it gently for an attractive marbled effect.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 55 minutes. The loaf is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool and Finish: Let the loaf cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Drizzle with the remaining caramel sauce and sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top if desired. Cool completely before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith for the best balance of sweetness and acidity.
- Make sure butter is softened, not melted, to properly cream with sugars.
- Do not overmix the batter after adding dry ingredients to avoid a dense loaf.
- You can substitute the caramel sauce with your favorite homemade or store-bought brand.
- Optional nuts add a nice crunch but can be omitted for nut-free versions.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: caramel apple cookie, cheddar cheese cookie, autumn dessert, caramel swirl loaf, apple cheddar bake
