Apple Cider Donut Bread Recipe

If you’re looking to cozy up with a treat that tastes like autumn in every bite, the Apple Cider Donut Bread is exactly what you need. This scrumptious bread brings together the warm spice of apple pie spice and the sweet tang of reduced apple cider in a loaf that’s perfectly moist and tender. With a crispy cinnamon sugar coating reminiscent of your favorite cider donuts, this recipe transforms simple pantry staples into something extraordinary and utterly comforting.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting your ingredients right is half the fun and sets the foundation for delicious Apple Cider Donut Bread. Each component plays a crucial role, from adding moisture and sweetness to that classic donut flavor and perfect cinnamon crunch.

• Apple cider: Reducing it intensifies the flavor and ensures your bread has that signature apple warmth without being soggy.
• Butter: Adds richness and tenderness to the crumb, making every bite melt in your mouth.
• Brown sugar: Gives a deep caramel sweetness, complementing the apple cider beautifully.
• Egg: Binds everything together while contributing to a soft texture.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall aroma and flavor with a subtle sweetness.
• Flour: The essential structure provider for your bread, creating the perfect rise and fluffiness.
• Apple pie spice: A mixture of warm spices that infuses the bread with a cozy, seasonal taste.
• Baking powder and baking soda: Leavening agents that help the bread rise and stay light.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and amplifies all the flavors.
• Melted butter (for topping): A buttery coating that helps the cinnamon sugar stick and adds extra indulgence.
• Sugar and cinnamon (for topping): Creates that irresistible cinnamon sugar crust that makes the Apple Cider Donut Bread visually appealing and deliciously crunchy.

How to Make Apple Cider Donut Bread

Step 1: Reduce the Apple Cider

Start by pouring your apple cider into a saucepan and bringing it to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer gently until it shrinks by half. This takes about 20 to 30 minutes and concentrates the apple flavor without adding extra liquid for your bread batter. Set it aside to cool while you prep the rest.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Pan and Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and get a 9 by 5-inch loaf pan ready by buttering or greasing it thoroughly. This step ensures your bread won’t stick and will come out with perfectly crisp edges.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using an electric mixer, beat the room temperature butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy. This step incorporates air into the mix, which helps make the bread tender and gives it that delightful crumb.

Step 4: Add Egg and Vanilla

Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until everything is nicely combined. These ingredients add moisture and depth to the bread, rounding out the flavors beautifully.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients and Incorporate Apple Cider

In a separate bowl, whisk together your flour, apple pie spice, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add this dry mixture to your wet ingredients along with the reduced apple cider. Stir gently with a spatula until just combined to avoid overmixing, which can make the bread dense.

Step 6: Bake Your Bread

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and bake for about 50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the bread rest in the pan for 15 minutes to set up before moving on.

Step 7: Add the Classic Cinnamon Sugar Topping

Transfer the loaf to a cooling rack set over a sheet pan to catch any stray topping. Brush the entire loaf—top and sides—with melted butter, then generously sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture all over. This final touch is what really brings the Apple Cider Donut Bread to life, creating a slightly crunchy, sweet crust that echoes that beloved donut texture.

Step 8: Cool and Slice

Allow the bread to cool completely for about an hour before slicing. This step is crucial to cleanly cut your beautiful loaf and enjoy every layer of flavor and texture.

How to Serve Apple Cider Donut Bread

Garnishes

A simple dusting of powdered sugar or a light drizzle of honey can add a lovely shine and touch of sweetness. Fresh apple slices or a sprinkle of chopped nuts on the side offer an inviting crunch and visual appeal. These little extras make your Apple Cider Donut Bread feel extra special whenever you serve it.

Side Dishes

This bread pairs beautifully with a steaming cup of coffee, chai tea, or even a glass of cold milk. For a more hearty snack, try it alongside a creamy bowl of cinnamon yogurt or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The possibilities are endless and enhance the comforting vibes of the bread perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Why not turn your Apple Cider Donut Bread into mini slices for a brunch board or a festive dessert platter? Toasting slices briefly adds a lovely crunch and warms up the cinnamon sugar topping. You can also cube the bread and use it as a base for bread pudding with a fall twist—a true celebration of that apple cider flavor in a new form.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Apple Cider Donut Bread stays fresh stored tightly wrapped at room temperature or in an airtight container for up to three days. Keeping it sealed prevents the crust from drying out while allowing the interior to retain its moist, tender texture.

Freezing

This bread freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe bag. It will hold well for up to two months. Just thaw overnight in your fridge or at room temperature before serving.

Reheating

To bring back that just-baked warmth and crispy topping, reheat slices in the oven at 325 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes. You can also pop slices in the toaster oven briefly for a quick treat that tastes freshly baked.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought apple cider instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Just be sure to use pure apple cider without added preservatives or sweeteners to keep the flavor authentic. The reduction step will intensify whatever cider you choose.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend can work well. Just ensure your blend contains xanthan gum or another binder for structure.

Can I bake this in muffin tins instead of a loaf pan?

Definitely! Muffin tins are a fun alternative and will reduce baking time to about 18 to 22 minutes. Just keep an eye on them so they don’t overbake.

How do I know when the Apple Cider Donut Bread is done?

The best test is inserting a toothpick or skewer into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs but no raw batter, your bread is perfectly baked.

Can I add nuts or apples to the batter?

Yes! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or small apple chunks add delightful texture and flavor. Fold them in gently with the dry ingredients to distribute evenly without weighing down the bread.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly magical about the Apple Cider Donut Bread that makes every bite feel like a warm autumn hug. It’s straightforward to make, uses familiar ingredients, and delivers an unforgettable experience that’s perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a cozy snack. If you want to bring a little extra joy and spice into your kitchen, give this recipe a try—you won’t regret it!

Print