Name: Irresistibly Cozy Apple Cider Donut Bread Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 65 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Apple Cider (Using store-bought cider works if you're short on fresh.); 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (Ensure it's at room temperature for better mixing.); 3/4 cup Light Brown Sugar (You can use granulated sugar for a lighter sweetness.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Feel free to substitute with aqua vita extract if preferred.); 2 Large Eggs (Use room temperature eggs for better incorporation.); 1/2 cup Unsweetened Applesauce (Mashed banana is a great swap if desired.); 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (It's best to stick with this for the ideal texture.); 1 teaspoon Baking Powder (Avoid substitutions for proper height.); 1/2 teaspoon Baking Soda (Avoid substitutions for proper height.); 1/2 teaspoon Salt (A small yet crucial ingredient to balance sweetness.); 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (Freshly ground will elevate the taste even more.); 1/4 teaspoon Nutmeg (Freshly ground is best for flavor.); 1/4 teaspoon Ginger (For cozy fall flavors.); 2 tablespoons Granulated Sugar (Adjust the ratio based on your sweetness love!); 1 teaspoon Cinnamon (Provides a sweet, crispy finish to the loaf.)

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The first cool breeze of autumn carries the sweet, spicy scent of apple cider to your kitchen, whispering promises of cozy gatherings and warm treats. This Apple Cider Donut Bread captures all the delicious flavors of fall in a quick, simple loaf that’s perfect for any occasion. Not only does it offer a moist and tender crumb with a fantastic crackly finish, but it also eliminates the hassle of frying—so you can indulge in your favorite seasonal flavors without the mess. Whether it’s a comforting breakfast or an afternoon snack paired with coffee, this delightful bread is sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire. Ready to delight your taste buds and fill your home with the essence of autumn? Let’s dive in!

Why Is This Bread a Fall Must-Bake?

Warm, Cozy Flavors: This Apple Cider Donut Bread brings the essence of fall straight to your table with its rich spices and sweet cider notes.

Quick and Easy: Preparing this bread is a breeze, making it perfect for both busy weekdays and leisurely weekends.

No Frying Required: Enjoy all the deliciousness of cider donuts without the hassle and mess of deep frying!

Moist, Tender Texture: Each slice boasts a soft interior, ideal for savoring on its own or slathered with butter.

Perfect for Gathering: Whether for brunch or as an afternoon snack, this bread will impress friends and family alike. Pair it with a cup of coffee for a cozy experience!

Long-lasting Freshness: Store extra slices airtight for up to a week, or try freezing them for a later treat, just like our Salted Caramel Apple recipe!

Apple Cider Donut Bread Ingredients

For the Bread
• Apple Cider – Adds moisture and depth of flavor; using store-bought cider works if you’re short on fresh.
• Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and moisture; ensure it’s at room temperature for better mixing.
• Light Brown Sugar – Contributes sweetness with a hint of molasses; you can use granulated sugar for a lighter sweetness.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor profile; feel free to substitute with aqua vita extract if preferred.
• Large Eggs – Essential for structure and moisture; use room temperature eggs for better incorporation.
• Unsweetened Applesauce – Adds moisture and a subtle apple flavor; mashed banana is a great swap if desired.
• All-Purpose Flour – Gives the bread its structure; it’s best to stick with this for the ideal texture.
• Baking Powder & Baking Soda – These leaveners help the bread rise; avoid substitutions for proper height.
• Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor; a small yet crucial ingredient!
• Ground Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Ginger – These spices bring those cozy fall flavors; freshly ground will elevate the taste even more.

For the Topping
• Granulated Sugar & Cinnamon – Provides a sweet, crispy finish to the loaf; adjust the ratio based on your sweetness love!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Apple Cider Donut Bread

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While waiting for it to heat, prepare a standard 1-lb loaf pan by lining it with parchment paper, ensuring it hangs over the edges slightly for easy removal later. This simple step will help your Apple Cider Donut Bread release effortlessly after baking.

Step 2: Reduce Apple Cider
In a medium saucepan, pour in one cup of apple cider and set it over medium heat. Stir occasionally, allowing it to simmer until it reduces down to about 1/2 cup, which should take around 10-12 minutes. Once reduced, remove it from the heat and let it cool while you prepare the other ingredients—this deepens the flavors beautifully!

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, add room temperature unsalted butter and light brown sugar. Beat on medium speed until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, approximately 3 minutes. This step is crucial for incorporating air, which helps create a tender crumb in your Apple Cider Donut Bread.

Step 4: Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla
With the mixer running, add the large eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. After all the eggs are mixed in, add the vanilla extract and beat for an additional minute. This will enhance the flavor profile and bring a lovely richness to your bread.

Step 5: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix the unsweetened applesauce with the cooled, reduced apple cider. Once combined, gradually add this wet mixture to the creamed butter and sugar, mixing until just combined. This adds moisture to your Apple Cider Donut Bread, ensuring every bite is deliciously tender.

Step 6: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Mixing these dry ingredients helps ensure even distribution of the leavening agents and spices, setting a solid foundation for your bread’s flavor and texture.

Step 7: Combine All Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the remaining wet cider mixture in three additions. Mix until just combined—avoid overmixing as this can lead to a denser texture. The batter for your Apple Cider Donut Bread will be thick yet smooth, so don’t worry if it seems heavy.

Step 8: Prepare for Baking
Spoon the thick batter into your prepared loaf pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly. Tap the pan gently on the countertop to level the batter and eliminate air bubbles. This ensures that your Apple Cider Donut Bread bakes evenly and rises beautifully.

Step 9: Add the Cinnamon Sugar Topping
In a small bowl, mix together granulated sugar and cinnamon for the topping. Generously sprinkle this mixture over the batter in the loaf pan, making sure to cover the entire surface. This adds a delightful, sweet, crackly finish to your bread once baked.

Step 10: Bake the Bread
Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. The bread is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean and the top springs back when gently touched. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack for complete cooling.

How to Store and Freeze Apple Cider Donut Bread

Room Temperature: Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, making sure it’s completely cooled to maintain its delightful texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual slices of your Apple Cider Donut Bread tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. This allows for up to 3 months of enjoyment!

Thawing: To thaw, simply remove a slice from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or microwave it for 10-15 seconds to enjoy that fresh-baked warmth again.

Reheating: If you prefer a warm slice, reheat in a toaster or a warm oven for about 5 minutes, which revives the delectable crispy topping!

What to Serve with Cozy Apple Cider Donut Bread

As you revel in the comforting flavors of this delightful bread, consider pairing it with other delicious treats to create a cozy meal experience.

Pumpkin Spice Latte: The warm spices in this beloved drink complement the spiced flavor profile of the bread, making it a seasonal classic.
Maple Syrup Drizzle: A light drizzle adds sweetness and a touch of fall essence that elevates each slice, enhancing your apple cider delight.
Cream Cheese Spread: A creamy, tangy topping contrasts beautifully with the sweet bread, offering a delightful balance of flavors on your palate.
Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright, juicy fruits like apples and pears provide a refreshing contrast, adding nutritional value and freshness to your meal.
Cinnamon Tea: The warmth of cinnamon tea infuses cozy vibes, making it a perfect sidekick to your delightful slices of apple cider bread.
Salted Caramel Sauce: For a decadent touch, drizzle this rich sauce over your bread for an indulgent treat that feels like a hug in every bite.

Savoring these pairings will create a sun-kissed atmosphere full of warmth and joy, perfect for autumn gatherings or casual moments at home.

Expert Tips for Apple Cider Donut Bread

Use Fresh Cider: For the best flavor, always use fresh apple cider. Store-bought options can work, but reducing fresh cider enhances the taste immensely.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature. This helps ingredients blend more smoothly, contributing to a soft, tender crumb in your Apple Cider Donut Bread.
Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can create a dense texture instead of the light, fluffy bread you desire.
Cool Properly: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This prevents moisture buildup and helps maintain the bread’s nice texture.
Slicing Tips: For clean slices, use a serrated knife once the bread has cooled entirely. This will give you beautiful, even slices perfect for serving!

Apple Cider Donut Bread Variations

Feel free to let your imagination run wild and customize this cozy recipe to suit your taste and dietary preferences!

Nutty Twist: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch and boost of healthy fats. Nuts add a lovely contrast to the soft bread and are perfect for enhancing texture.
Fruity Delight: Toss in raisins or dried cranberries for a chewy, fruity element. The addition of these dried fruits complements the sweet apple flavors, making every bite interesting.
Glaze Your Bread: Drizzle a simple sugar glaze over the cooled bread for that extra sugary goodness. This quick finish takes your Apple Cider Donut Bread to a new level of decadence.
Spice It Up: Experiment with adding a pinch of ground cloves or allspice to the spice mix for an unexpected flavor twist. These spices enhance the warm, cozy aroma that fills your kitchen, wrapping you in comfort.
Pumpkin Spice Variation: Swap out some of the flour with pumpkin puree to give your bread a soft, moist texture and a hint of pumpkin flavor. This seasonal addition sets a festive mood, ideal for autumn gatherings.
Add Zest: For a fresh zing, mix in the zest of an orange or lemon into the batter. The citrus will brighten the flavors and add a refreshing contrast to the warm spices.
Chocolate Lovers: Fold in mini chocolate chips for a rich, indulgent touch. The chocolate adds a wonderful melting quality that pairs deliciously with the sweet, spiced bread.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour for a gluten-free version. This allows everyone to enjoy the cozy flavors without missing out!

Dancing between these delightful variations will keep your Apple Cider Donut Bread fresh and exciting. And while you’re at it, why not try pairing it with a rich cup of coffee or serving it alongside our scrumptious Cider Pumpkin Waffles? Happy baking!

Make Ahead Options

These Apple Cider Donut Bread are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the wet and dry ingredients separately and storing them in airtight containers in the fridge. Just remember to keep the dry ingredients separate to maintain their leavening power. On the day you plan to bake, simply combine the mixtures and add the cinnamon sugar topping before popping it in the oven. This not only streamlines your prep but ensures your bread comes out just as delicious, with that lovely moist crumb you crave! Enjoy the comforting aroma of fresh-baked bread with minimal effort!

Apple Cider Donut Bread Recipe FAQs

What type of apple cider should I use for this bread?
I recommend using fresh apple cider for the most robust flavor! If fresh cider isn’t available, store-bought cider works too; however, it won’t have the same depth. For the best results, be sure to reduce the cider as instructed, as this enhances the overall taste of the Apple Cider Donut Bread.

How should I store my leftover bread?
To keep your bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing it up, to maintain that delightful texture. This way, your Apple Cider Donut Bread will stay moist and flavorful, perfect for snacking or breakfast.

Can I freeze Apple Cider Donut Bread?
Absolutely! For longer storage, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. This method preserves the bread for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply remove a slice from the freezer and allow it to thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes or microwave it for 10-15 seconds.

What if my bread turns out too dense?
If your Apple Cider Donut Bread ends up denser than you’d hoped, it’s usually due to overmixing. When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix gently until just combined to avoid developing gluten, which can toughen the texture. Also, ensuring your leavening agents are fresh and active will help the bread rise properly.

Can I make this bread while accommodating dietary restrictions?
While this recipe isn’t specifically designed for any dietary restrictions, it can be easily adjusted. For vegan options, substitute applesauce for eggs and use a dairy-free butter alternative. If you have gluten concerns, you can try a gluten-free all-purpose flour. Just keep in mind that the texture may vary!