Apple Cider Donut Bread

If you’re looking for a cozy treat that captures the essence of fall, you’ve come to the right place! This Apple Cider Donut Bread is a delightful twist on those classic apple cider donuts we all crave. With its crackly exterior and tender, flavorful interior, this loaf brings the warmth of autumn right into your kitchen.

What makes this bread so special? It’s not just the delicious flavor; it’s also super easy to whip up. Whether you’re preparing for a family gathering or just need a comforting snack on a busy weeknight, this recipe fits perfectly into any occasion. So grab your favorite mug of cider and let’s get baking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: This recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Family-friendly: Everyone will love the sweet and spiced flavors; it’s a hit with kids and adults alike!
• Make-ahead friendly: Bake a loaf ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week—perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack.
• Deliciously fragrant: The aroma of this bread baking will fill your home with cozy autumn vibes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll love how simple and wholesome these ingredients are! They come together to create a beautifully spiced bread that’s perfect for sharing (or keeping all to yourself!). Here’s what you need:

For the Bread

• 2 cups apple cider
• ½ cup butter (room temperature)
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 2 cups flour
• 1 tablespoon apple pie spice
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt

For Coating

• ¼ cup melted butter
• ½ cup sugar
• 1 tablespoon cinnamon

Variations

This Apple Cider Donut Bread is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations you can try:

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch and nutty flavor.
• Incorporate dried fruit: Dried cranberries or raisins can bring additional sweetness and texture.
• Experiment with spices: If you love chai, try adding cardamom or ginger for a unique twist.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute regular flour with your favorite gluten-free blend to accommodate dietary needs.

How to Make Apple Cider Donut Bread

Step 1: Reduce the Cider

Start by adding the apple cider to a saucepan over medium heat. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to let it simmer. This process is crucial because reducing the cider concentrates its sweet apple flavor, giving your bread that irresistible taste we all adore. Let it simmer until it’s reduced by half—this should take about 20–30 minutes. Once done, set it aside to cool while you prep everything else.

Step 2: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit while you grease your 9×5 loaf pan. Greasing helps ensure that our lovely bread won’t stick when it’s time to slice into it!

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a mixing bowl, add the room temperature butter and brown sugar. Use an electric mixer to beat them together until light and fluffy. This step adds air into the mixture, which will help give your bread that lovely rise.

Step 4: Mix in Egg and Vanilla

Next, beat in one large egg and add in the vanilla extract until everything is combined well. This mix is what gives our bread its rich flavor profile—trust me; it makes a difference!

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

Now it’s time to add all of our dry ingredients along with the cooled reduced apple cider. Gently stir everything together by hand until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want our bread tender!

Step 6: Bake Your Bread

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and bake it in your preheated oven for about 50 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a tester inserted comes out clean!

Step 7: Cool Down

Let your beautiful bread cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring it to a cooling rack set over a sheet pan. This helps catch any excess sugar later on.

Step 8: Butter and Sugar Coating

Once cooled enough, brush melted butter generously over the top and sides of your loaf. In a small bowl, combine sugar with cinnamon, then sprinkle this mix liberally over your buttered bread until well coated.

Step 9: Final Cooling

Allow your bread to cool completely for about an hour before slicing into it. This final cooling ensures that every slice holds together beautifully and gives you that perfect bite!

Enjoy every slice of this warm Apple Cider Donut Bread—it’s sure to become a beloved addition to your recipe collection!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Cider Donut Bread

Baking can be a delightful adventure, and with these tips, you’ll ensure your apple cider donut bread turns out perfectly every time!

• Use fresh apple cider – Fresh cider enhances the flavor and aroma of the bread, making it taste just like those classic donuts from the orchard.
• Don’t overmix the batter – Mixing just until combined keeps the bread tender and fluffy; overmixing can result in a dense loaf.
• Check for doneness early – Ovens can vary, so start checking your bread about 5 minutes before the recommended baking time to avoid overbaking.
• Cool properly – Allowing the bread to cool in the pan before transferring it helps maintain its structure and prevents it from breaking apart.
• Experiment with spices – Feel free to adjust the apple pie spice or add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for a unique flavor twist that suits your taste.

How to Serve Apple Cider Donut Bread

Serving this delicious apple cider donut bread is as fun as baking it! Here are some ideas to make your presentation extra special.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting – A light sprinkle of powdered sugar adds a touch of sweetness and an elegant look to your loaf.
• Caramel drizzle – A warm caramel sauce drizzled on top provides a rich contrast to the apple flavor, enhancing the overall experience.

Side Dishes

• Warm spiced tea – A cup of warm spiced tea complements the flavors of the bread beautifully, providing a cozy beverage option.
• Greek yogurt with honey – Creamy Greek yogurt topped with a drizzle of honey adds a tangy balance to the sweetness of the bread while also offering some protein.
• Sliced apples with cinnamon – Fresh apple slices tossed with cinnamon bring out more fruitiness and give a refreshing crunch alongside each slice of bread.
• Mixed green salad with vinaigrette – A light salad made with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette adds brightness and balances the richness of the bread.

With these serving ideas, your apple cider donut bread will not only fill your kitchen with delightful aromas but also impress everyone at your table! Enjoy every slice!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Apple Cider Donut Bread is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy its delightful flavors throughout the week. It’s easy to make in advance, and it stores beautifully, so you can have a slice ready whenever you crave something sweet!

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in a container.

Freezing

• Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Place the wrapped bread in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Label with the date to keep track of how long it’s been stored.

Reheating

• To reheat slices, place them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
• For a crispier texture, toast slices in a toaster oven or on a skillet over medium heat.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making Apple Cider Donut Bread.

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

Absolutely! Fresh apple cider will enhance the flavor of your Apple Cider Donut Bread even more. Just ensure it’s reduced by half as indicated in the recipe.

How can I make this Apple Cider Donut Bread gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend. Make sure it’s suitable for baking to ensure proper texture and rise.

What can I serve with Apple Cider Donut Bread?

This delicious bread pairs wonderfully with coffee or tea for breakfast or an afternoon snack. You can also enjoy it with a spread of cream cheese or apple butter!

Can I add nuts or raisins to this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to mix in chopped nuts or raisins for added flavor and texture. Just fold them into the batter gently before pouring it into the loaf pan.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in baking this Apple Cider Donut Bread as much as I do! Its warm, comforting flavors are a beautiful way to celebrate fall and create lasting memories around the kitchen table. Enjoy each slice, and don’t hesitate to share your own twists on this recipe – happy baking!