Apple Cider Donut Bread

If you’re looking for a delightful way to celebrate the flavors of fall, you’ve come to the right place! This Apple Cider Donut Bread is a warm hug in loaf form. With the sweet and spiced notes of apple cider donuts, this bread brings all the cozy vibes to your kitchen. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something special, or family gatherings where everyone will gather around for a slice (or two!).

This recipe is not just about taste; it’s about sharing moments. Whether you’re enjoying it with coffee in the morning or savoring it as a dessert after dinner, this Apple Cider Donut Bread quickly becomes a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This bread comes together in no time, making it perfect even for beginner bakers.
• Cozy Flavors: Each bite is filled with the comforting spices of fall—cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger—that will warm your heart.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love it! The sweet taste and soft texture make it a hit with everyone.
• Make-Ahead Delight: Bake it ahead of time, and you’ll have a delicious treat ready whenever cravings strike!
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s breakfast, a snack, or dessert, this bread fits right in at any table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create this delicious loaf, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that you might already have on hand. Here’s what we’re using:

• 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

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! You can easily tweak it to fit your preferences or pantry staples. Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:

• Add Nuts: Stir in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch.
• Incorporate Dried Fruits: Toss in raisins or dried cranberries for added sweetness and texture.
• Make it Glazed: Drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and apple cider over the top for an extra sweet touch.
• Swap Flours: For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.

How to Make Apple Cider Donut Bread

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare your loaf pan by lining it with parchment paper. This step ensures that your bread comes out easily without sticking!

Step 2: Reduce the Apple Cider

In a saucepan over medium heat, pour in the apple cider. Cook while stirring frequently until it thickens and reduces down to about half a cup. This concentrated flavor will enhance your bread’s taste.

Step 3: Cream Together Butter and Sugar

In your stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, combine softened butter and brown sugar. Beat them together on high speed until light and fluffy—about 3 minutes. This aeration is crucial as it helps to create a tender crumb in your bread!

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Scrape down the bowl’s sides and add vanilla extract followed by eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This step incorporates air into the batter while ensuring everything blends well together.

Step 5: Mix Applesauce and Cider

In another bowl, mix together unsweetened applesauce and your reduced apple cider. Set this aside; these ingredients will contribute moisture and flavor later on.

Step 6: Combine Dry Ingredients

In yet another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and those lovely spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger). Mixing these dry ingredients ensures even distribution throughout the batter.

Step 7: Bring It All Together

Now it’s time to combine! Alternate adding the dry mixture with the apple cider mixture into your butter mixture in three additions—starting and ending with dry ingredients. You’ll notice that the batter will be thick—this is just right!

Step 8: Add Cinnamon Sugar Topping

Mix together granulated sugar and cinnamon for that irresistible topping. Sprinkle this mixture generously over the top of your loaf before placing it in the oven.

Step 9: Bake Your Bread

Bake your loaf for about 35 to 40 minutes until it’s golden brown on top. It should spring back when touched lightly, and if you insert a knife into the center, it should come out mostly clean. Let it cool before slicing—if you can wait that long!

And there you have it—a beautifully spiced Apple Cider Donut Bread that’s sure to bring joy to any gathering or quiet evening at home!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Cider Donut Bread

Baking this delightful bread is a breeze, but a few handy tips can make your experience even better!

• Use fresh apple cider – Fresh apple cider enhances the flavor of your bread, giving it that authentic, cozy taste reminiscent of autumn.
• Room temperature ingredients – Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature; this helps create a light and fluffy batter that rises beautifully.
• Don’t skip the reduction – Reducing the apple cider intensifies its flavor, making your bread taste even more like a warm apple cider donut!
• Check for doneness – Since ovens can vary, start checking your loaf around the 35-minute mark. It’s ready when it springs back lightly to touch and a knife comes out mostly clean.
• Cool before slicing – Allowing the bread to cool completely before slicing helps set the texture and makes for cleaner, prettier slices.

How to Serve Apple Cider Donut Bread

This Apple Cider Donut Bread is perfect for any occasion! Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast, as an afternoon snack, or even dessert, presenting it well can elevate your experience.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting – A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of sweetness and looks beautiful on top of the loaf.
• Whipped coconut cream – A dollop of whipped coconut cream on the side offers a creamy contrast that complements the spices in the bread.

Side Dishes

• Hot apple cider – Serve a steaming cup of spiced hot apple cider alongside your bread for a comforting pairing that enhances those fall flavors.
• Honey butter – A spread of honey butter adds richness and sweetness that perfectly complements the cinnamon notes in the loaf.
• Fresh fruit salad – A refreshing fruit salad with seasonal fruits balances the sweetness and adds a pop of color to your presentation.
• Yogurt parfaits – Layer yogurt with granola and fresh fruit for a nutritious side dish that contrasts beautifully with the dense loaf.

Enjoy sharing (or keeping all to yourself) this scrumptious Apple Cider Donut Bread! It’s sure to become a fall favorite in your home.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Apple Cider Donut Bread is perfect for meal prep! It keeps well, making it an excellent option for busy mornings or cozy afternoons. Here are some tips on how to store and enjoy your delicious bread even longer.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the bread to cool completely.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Slice the bread before freezing for easy access.
• Wrap each slice in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Label with the date for reference!

Reheating

• To reheat individual slices, pop them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds.
• Alternatively, warm slices in a toaster oven until heated through.
• Enjoy warm for that freshly baked taste!

FAQs

Have questions about making this delightful Apple Cider Donut Bread? You’re not alone! Here are some common queries:

Can I use fresh apple juice instead of apple cider?

Yes! While apple cider adds a richer flavor, fresh apple juice can be used as a substitute in this recipe.

How long does Apple Cider Donut Bread stay fresh?

When stored properly, this bread can last up to 3 days at room temperature. For longer storage, freeze it as directed above!

What makes this Apple Cider Donut Bread different from regular bread?

The unique combination of spices and reduced apple cider gives this loaf the delicious flavors reminiscent of classic apple cider donuts, making it a special treat.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup. Just ensure your baking powder is also gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Apple Cider Donut Bread as much as I do! With its sweet aroma and delightful flavors, it’s sure to become a cozy favorite during the fall season. Enjoy sharing it with friends and family or savoring it yourself with a warm cup of tea. Happy baking!