Ingredients

4 teaspoons ground cinnamon

2 teaspoons ground ginger

1 teaspoon ground cardamom

1/2 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg

1/2 teaspoon all-spice

1/2 teaspoon ground cloves

1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper

1 stick (1/2 cup) salted butter, melted

3/4 cup + 1 tablespoon brown sugar

1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt

1/3 cup apple butter

3 eggs

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

1 1/2 cups whole wheat or all-purpose flour

1 tablespoon baking powder

1 teaspoon salt

1 Honeycrisp apple, very thinly sliced or chopped

4 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature or melted

1/2 cup dark brown sugar

1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

2 tablespoons salted butter, melted

Instructions

Step 1: In a shallow bowl, combine the ground cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, nutmeg, all-spice, cloves, and black pepper to make the chai spice blend.

Step 2: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×5 inch bread pan with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 3: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, 3/4 cup brown sugar, Greek yogurt, apple butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 4: Add the flour, 1 tablespoon of the chai spice blend, baking powder, and salt to the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined to form the batter.

Step 5: Toss the sliced or chopped apples with 1 tablespoon of brown sugar and 2 teaspoons of chai spice. Fold the apples gently into the batter.

Step 6: Dollop the cream cheese evenly over the batter and gently stir to create swirls. Be careful not to over-mix.

Step 7: Pour the batter into the prepared bread pan and smooth the top.

Step 8: For the topping swirl, mix the melted butter, dark brown sugar, 1 tablespoon flour, and 1–2 teaspoons chai spice until crumbly. Scatter the mixture in clumps over the batter.

Step 9: Bake for 60 to 70 minutes, or until the center is set and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Cover with foil halfway through if the top browns too quickly.

Step 10: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm with butter or enjoy as is.

Tips & Variations

Use a sharp Honeycrisp or another crisp apple to maintain texture after baking.

Swap out cream cheese for mascarpone for a milder, creamier swirl.

Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the batter for extra crunch.

For a dairy-free option, substitute Greek yogurt and butter with plant-based alternatives.

If you prefer a sweeter bread, drizzle with honey or maple syrup before serving.

FAQs

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of whole wheat flour?

Yes, all-purpose flour works well and will produce a lighter texture, while whole wheat adds nuttiness and extra fiber.

How do I know when the bread is fully baked?

Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. The bread should also spring back slightly when pressed.