STEP 4 — Cream Butter and Sugar

1. In a large bowl, use a hand or stand mixer to beat the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
2. Add eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract.

STEP 5 — Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

1. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
2. Fold in the sour cream (or yogurt) to add moisture and tenderness.
3. Gently fold in the chopped apples.

💡 Tip: Avoid overmixing once you add flour—overmixing can make the loaf dense.

STEP 6 — Assemble the Loaf

1. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly.
2. Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the batter.
3. Lightly press the streusel into the batter but don’t flatten it—it should remain crumbly.

STEP 7 — Bake

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
2. If the streusel browns too quickly, loosely tent the loaf with foil for the last 10–15 minutes.

STEP 8 — Cool and Serve

1. Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 15–20 minutes.
2. Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the loaf onto a wire rack to cool completely.
3. Slice and enjoy warm or at room temperature.

💡 Tip: For extra flair, drizzle a simple glaze of powdered sugar and milk over the streusel before serving.

⭐ Serving Suggestions

• Pair with coffee, tea, or a warm latte for a cozy treat.
• Serve with a smear of butter or cream cheese for breakfast.
• Wrap slices individually for a grab-and-go snack.

🥇 Tips for the Perfect Apple Cinnamon Streusel Loaf

1. Use fresh, firm apples like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala—they hold up well in the batter.
2. Chill the streusel until baking—it keeps the crumbs crisp.
3. Don’t overmix the batter once apples are added—gentle folding keeps the loaf tender.
4. Check doneness carefully—ovens vary, so start testing at 50 minutes.

❤️ Final Thoughts

The Apple Cinnamon Streusel Loaf is a simple yet indulgent treat, balancing soft, flavorful bread with a crisp, buttery topping. It’s perfect for sharing—or for sneaking a slice (or two) yourself. This recipe is flexible too: try adding walnuts, raisins, or a drizzle of caramel glaze for extra decadence.

It’s the kind of loaf that fills your kitchen with a cozy aroma and brings smiles at any table.

If you want, I can also create a version with caramelized apples and cream cheese swirl inside to make it even more decadent. Do you want me to do that next?