Name: Apple Cider Donut Bread Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup apple cider*; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature; 1 cup light brown sugar, packed; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 2 large eggs, at room temperature; 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger; 1/3 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 15 reviews

If you love the warm, spicy flavors of fall and the comforting aroma of fresh baked goods, you are going to adore this Apple Cider Donut Bread Recipe. It takes everything you crave about classic apple cider donuts – the cinnamon, nutmeg, buttery sweetness, and tangy apple cider – and transforms those cozy notes into a loaf of bread that’s simple to make and impossible to resist. The soft, tender crumb infused with homemade reduced apple cider, topped with a crunchy cinnamon sugar crust, makes every bite feel like a festive celebration in your kitchen. This Apple Cider Donut Bread Recipe is perfect whether you’re welcoming guests, needing a sweet pick-me-up, or just craving some seasonal magic in your day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl in the center holds light brown dough with a soft, sticky texture, swirled inside. A wooden spoon with a smooth handle rests partially inside the dough, blending the mixture. Around the bowl, on a white marbled surface, are several small white bowls and dishes containing ingredients: one filled with white flour, another with white granulated sugar, a small bowl with an egg yolk floating in clear egg white, a small glass bowl of white sugar, and a white bowl holding two brown eggs. The scene is well lit, showing a clean and organized baking setup. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this Apple Cider Donut Bread Recipe is carefully chosen to build layers of flavor and texture that complement each other beautifully. From the rich butter that ensures moistness, to the fragrant spices that evoke fall’s essence, each component has a purpose you’ll appreciate once you taste the finished bread.

Apple cider: Reduces down for a concentrated, tangy sweetness that forms the heart of the flavor.
Unsalted butter: Adds richness and moisture so the bread stays tender.
Light brown sugar: Brings a deep molasses note and helps with a soft, chewy crumb.
Vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with a smooth, warm undertone.
Large eggs: Provide structure and binding to hold the loaf together.
Unsweetened applesauce: Adds moisture without excess fat and gives an added apple boost.
All-purpose flour: The base that creates the bread’s structure and texture.
Baking powder and baking soda: Leaveners that ensure a light and fluffy rise.
Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavor depth.
Ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger: Classic warm spices that make this bread unmistakably fall.
Granulated sugar and cinnamon (for topping): Form a crisp, sweet crust that mimics the beloved outside of a cider donut.

How to Make Apple Cider Donut Bread Recipe

Step 1: Reduce the Apple Cider

Begin by reducing the apple cider on the stove to concentrate its flavor and remove excess liquid. This step is essential because it intensifies the natural sweetness and tanginess of the cider without making the batter too wet. Be patient and stir often to prevent burning.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

Using a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, beat the softened butter and brown sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This aeration creates a lovely texture and ensures your bread will be moist and tender.

Step 3: Add the Vanilla and Eggs

Scrape down the bowl, then add the vanilla extract followed by the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This slow incorporation helps maintain the airy texture you just created.

Step 4: Combine the Applesauce and Reduced Cider

In a separate bowl, mix the unsweetened applesauce with the cooled, reduced apple cider. This mixture will add moisture and an extra layer of apple flavor to your bread.

Step 5: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices. This step evenly distributes the leaveners and spices, ensuring every bite is infused with warm, cozy flavors.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Add the dry ingredients and the apple cider mixture alternately to the butter mixture in three additions, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. This careful mixing prevents overworking the batter while making sure all ingredients are evenly incorporated. The batter will be thick — that’s perfect!

Step 7: Prepare the Pan and Add the Batter

Line your loaf pan with parchment paper on all sides for easy removal, then spoon your batter into the pan, smoothing it into an even layer. This ensures even cooking and a beautiful shape.

Step 8: Create the Cinnamon Sugar Topping

Mix the granulated sugar and cinnamon in a bowl, then sprinkle generously over the top of the batter. This sugary crust will bake up crispy and delightful, just like the outside of an apple cider donut.

Step 9: Bake and Cool

Bake the loaf at 350°F for 40 to 45 minutes or until it springs back to the touch and a knife inserted in the center comes out mostly clean. Let the bread cool fully before slicing to allow the crumb to set perfectly.

How to Serve Apple Cider Donut Bread Recipe

A slice of brown loaf cake with a slightly crumbly texture rests on a white marbled surface, alongside a larger piece of the same loaf. The cake has a light golden brown color with a darker, slightly cracked top dusted with a light layer of cinnamon or sugar. The slice shows a dense but soft interior with small air holes throughout. Some crumbs are scattered around the loaf pieces on the white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For an extra touch of indulgence, try dusting your slices with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of warm caramel sauce. Fresh apple slices or a dollop of whipped cream also make delightful accompaniments, bringing out the bread’s apple and spice notes.

Side Dishes

This bread pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee, chai tea, or even a creamy latte. For brunch, serve alongside creamy yogurt and fresh fruit to create a well-rounded meal full of fall-inspired flavors and textures.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn this loaf into an eye-catching dessert by slicing it thick, toasting each piece, and serving with spiced apple butter or mascarpone cheese. You can also make mini versions using a muffin tin for bite-sized treats perfect for parties or snacks on the go.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap leftover bread tightly with plastic wrap or keep it in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay moist and tasty for up to three days, perfect for enjoying as a snack or breakfast all week long.

Freezing

This Apple Cider Donut Bread Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap the whole loaf or individual slices in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and store in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

To revive the fresh-baked feeling, warm slices in a toaster oven or regular oven at 300°F for a few minutes until heated through and the cinnamon sugar topping becomes lightly crisp again. Avoid microwaving to keep the texture just right.

FAQs

Can I use regular apple juice instead of apple cider?

While you can substitute apple juice in a pinch, apple cider has a richer, spiced flavor that really makes this recipe shine. If using juice, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or allspice to mimic that depth.

Is it necessary to reduce the apple cider?

Yes, reducing the cider concentrates the flavor and removes excess liquid, ensuring your bread is moist but not soggy. This step significantly enhances the overall taste.

Can I make this bread gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that includes xanthan gum. Keep an eye on texture, as gluten-free batters can behave differently.

What’s the best way to measure flour for this recipe?

Lightly spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife rather than scooping directly from the bag, which can pack the flour and lead to a denser loaf.

Can I add nuts or dried fruit?

Absolutely! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or dried cranberries or raisins would complement the flavors wonderfully. Fold them into the batter just before pouring it into the pan.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Apple Cider Donut Bread Recipe brings a little warmth and joy to your kitchen as much as it does to mine. It’s a perfect way to celebrate the flavors of the season without fuss, delivering tasty, comforting bread that feels like a sweet hug in every slice. Give it a try and watch it become a favorite autumn tradition in your home!