Apple Cider Donut Bread Recipe

If fall could be baked into a loaf, this Apple Cider Donut Bread would be it—each bite bursts with warm apple cider flavor, cozy spices, and the irresistible crunch of a cinnamon-sugar topping. Think of it as the best parts of a fresh apple cider donut, transformed into a moist, aromatic quick bread that makes your kitchen smell absolutely heavenly. With every slice, you’ll taste layers of apple, brown sugar, and spices wrapped in a golden crust that’s impossible to resist—this recipe is guaranteed to steal the show at breakfast, brunch, or paired with an afternoon cup of coffee.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make the magic happen, you’ll need simple pantry staples plus a splash of real apple cider. Each ingredient plays a special role—together they create that soft crumb, bold flavor, and crisp sugary coating that makes Apple Cider Donut Bread so irresistible.

• Apple cider: This is the star ingredient; reducing it concentrates the apple flavor and gives the bread its signature tang.
• Butter: For rich flavor and the moist, tender crumb you want in a classic quick bread.
• Brown sugar: Adds deep caramel notes that pair perfectly with apple and spice.
• Egg: Helps bind the batter together and creates structure.
• Vanilla: A little vanilla wakes up the flavors and adds warmth.
• Flour: Plain all-purpose flour keeps the crumb tender yet sturdy.
• Apple pie spice: The heart of the donut-shop flavor! It’s the secret to that cozy, autumnal vibe.
• Baking powder and baking soda: These leaveners give your bread lift and lightness.
• Salt: A pinch lifts all the other flavors so nothing falls flat.
• Melted butter (for topping): Makes the cinnamon-sugar stick beautifully to the loaf.
• Sugar (for topping): Gives the bread that iconic crunchy coating.
• Cinnamon (for topping): A little more warming spice right on top—for aroma and flavor with every bite.

How to Make Apple Cider Donut Bread

Step 1: Reduce the Apple Cider

Pour your apple cider into a saucepan, bring it to a boil, and then simmer until it reduces by half—this takes about 20 to 30 minutes and fills the kitchen with the coziest aroma. Reducing the cider is key: it intensifies the flavor and ensures your Apple Cider Donut Bread is packed with pure apple essence. Let it cool while you prepare everything else.

Step 2: Prep the Pan and Oven

While the cider cools, preheat your oven to 350 degrees. Butter or grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan generously. This helps the bread release easily and gives you those crisp, golden edges that everyone loves.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a mixing bowl, beat together the room-temperature butter and brown sugar using an electric mixer. Keep mixing until it’s fluffy, creamy, and noticeably lighter in color. This step gives your Apple Cider Donut Bread a soft, even crumb.

Step 4: Add Egg and Vanilla

Next, beat in the egg and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and homogenous. The egg provides support and helps blend the flavors together beautifully.

Step 5: Mix in the Dry Ingredients and Cider

Add the flour, apple pie spice, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and finally your reduced apple cider. Stir gently by hand just until everything is combined—over-mixing can make the bread tough, so keep it simple!

Step 6: Bake the Bread

Pour that golden batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing out the top. Bake for about 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will smell incredible—like spiced donuts in a country bakery!

Step 7: Cool and Prepare for Topping

Let the bread cool in the pan for 15 minutes—it helps the loaf set and makes it easier to handle. Then, carefully turn it out onto a cooling rack set over a sheet pan to catch any runaway cinnamon sugar.

Step 8: Add the Cinnamon-Sugar Topping

While the bread is still warm, brush the top and sides generously with melted butter. Combine sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl, then liberally sprinkle the mixture all over the bread, letting the excess cascade onto the pan below. This not only makes it taste like a fresh apple cider donut, but delivers that crave-worthy sugary crunch.

Step 9: Let Cool and Slice

Let your Apple Cider Donut Bread cool for at least an hour before slicing. This step gives the crumb a chance to finish setting and lets those flavors really shine. Once cooled, slice and revel in every apple-spiced, cinnamon-sugary bite.

How to Serve Apple Cider Donut Bread

Garnishes

A slice of Apple Cider Donut Bread is delicious all on its own, but you can make it even more enticing with a drizzle of warm caramel, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a small scoop of vanilla ice cream for a fabulous dessert twist. For a cozy breakfast touch, add a thin pat of butter and let it melt into the spiced crumb—pure autumnal bliss!

Side Dishes

This bread pairs beautifully with a mug of hot apple cider, chai tea, or coffee—the warmth really brings out its spiced notes. For a brunch spread, serve it alongside creamy Greek yogurt, fresh fruit, or even some crispy bacon or sausage for a sweet-salty contrast that everyone will love.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re sharing Apple Cider Donut Bread at a gathering, slice it thick and lay the pieces on a rustic wooden board, nestled with fresh apple slices and cinnamon sticks for an extra-special look. For mini treats, bake the batter in muffin tins and cloak each with the cinnamon-sugar topping—adorable, personal portions that guests will swoon over.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, wrap your Apple Cider Donut Bread tightly in plastic wrap or keep it in an airtight container at room temperature. It stays moist and flavorful for up to three days, making it perfect for preparing ahead of time or savoring slice by slice.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap the cooled loaf (or individual slices) first in a layer of plastic wrap, then foil, and place in a zip-top freezer bag. Your Apple Cider Donut Bread will keep for up to two months. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy—it’s just as delightful as the day you baked it!

Reheating

Warm a slice in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or pop it in a low oven for a few minutes to revive its just-baked aroma and texture. If you’d like, brush with a dab of melted butter and dust with a touch more cinnamon sugar before serving for extra indulgence.

FAQs

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

While apple cider is best for its tangy, intense apple flavor, you can use apple juice in a pinch. Reducing it down as directed will still yield tasty results, but the depth of apple flavor may not be quite as robust as traditional cider.

Can I make Apple Cider Donut Bread gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute your favorite 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour blend for the all-purpose flour. Just check that your other ingredients are gluten-free, and you’ll still get a fantastic loaf.

How do I know when the bread is finished baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf—if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, your bread is ready! Every oven varies, so start checking at 45 minutes and keep a close eye during the last few minutes.

Can I double this recipe for more loaves?

Definitely. Double all the ingredients and divide the batter evenly between two loaf pans. You may need to adjust the baking time slightly, so watch for that clean toothpick test in the center of each loaf.

Can I add mix-ins like nuts or chopped apples?

That’s a delicious idea! Fold in up to 1 cup of toasted pecans, walnuts, or small diced apples to the finished batter for even more flavor and texture. Just be careful not to over-mix once you add them in.

Final Thoughts

If you crave autumn in every bite, don’t let this Apple Cider Donut Bread pass you by—it’s the kind of recipe you’ll want to share and bake all season long. Go ahead, treat yourself and your loved ones to a loaf and see just how quickly it disappears!

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