Apple Cider Donut Bread

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting treat that captures the essence of fall, this Apple Cider Donut Bread is your answer. The smell of warm apples and spices wafting through your kitchen will make your heart sing! This recipe is special to me because it brings the nostalgia of visiting local apple orchards and indulging in freshly fried cider donuts right into your home. Whether you enjoy it as an afternoon snack with friends or serve it at a family gathering, this bread is sure to become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, baking this bread is a breeze!
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love this sweet treat; it’s perfect for breakfast or dessert.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week. It stays delicious for days!
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of apple cider and warming spices creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist.
• Warm, Cozy Vibes: This bread is like a hug in loaf form — perfect for those chilly fall evenings!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to whip up this delightful Apple Cider Donut Bread. You probably have most of these on hand already!

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 the Topping

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

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to customize it to suit your taste or pantry staples.

• Add Nuts: Stir in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
• Mix in Dried Fruit: Consider adding raisins or dried cranberries for a fruity twist.
• Try Different Spices: Experiment with different spices such as nutmeg or ginger to create your own unique blend.
• Glaze It Up: Drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and apple cider over the cooled bread for an extra touch of sweetness.

How to Make Apple Cider Donut Bread

Step 1: Reduce the Apple Cider

Start by adding the apple cider to a saucepan over medium heat. Bring it to a boil, then reduce it to a simmer. Cooking down the cider until it’s reduced by half concentrates its sweet flavor and gives our bread that irresistible apple taste.

Step 2: Preheat Your Oven

While the cider cools, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Don’t forget to butter or grease a 9×5 loaf pan so our bread comes out easily once baked!

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a mixing bowl, combine the room temperature butter with brown sugar. Beat them together using an electric mixer until light and fluffy. This step adds air into the batter, which helps create that lovely tender texture we all adore.

Step 4: Add Egg and Vanilla

Next, beat in one large egg and a teaspoon of vanilla extract until everything is well combined. These ingredients not only add moisture but also enhance the overall flavor profile of our bread.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

Incorporate all the dry ingredients along with your reduced apple cider into the mixing bowl. Stir gently by hand until just combined—this way, we keep our bread light and fluffy rather than dense!

Step 6: Bake It Up!

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and pop it into the oven for about 50 minutes. Keep an eye on it; when a tester comes out clean, you know it’s ready!

Step 7: Cool in Pan

Once baked, let your bread cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. This helps set its structure before transferring it.

Step 8: Prepare for Topping

After cooling slightly, carefully remove the bread from the pan onto a cooling rack set over a sheet pan. This allows any excess cinnamon sugar mixture to catch below.

Step 9: Brush with Butter

Brush melted butter generously over both the top and sides of your warm loaf. This creates that deliciously crackly exterior reminiscent of those orchard donuts we all love.

Step 10: Cinnamon Sugar Coating

In a small bowl, mix together sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture liberally over your buttered bread so every bite is bursting with flavor!

Step 11: Let It Cool Before Slicing

Allow your Apple Cider Donut Bread to cool completely for about an hour before slicing. Patience pays off here; letting it cool ensures cleaner slices and enhances flavors.

Now you’re ready to slice up this delightful treat! Enjoy every moist bite of this comforting loaf filled with warm autumn flavors—you deserve it!

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!

• Reduce the cider properly: Make sure to reduce the apple cider to half its volume. This concentrates the flavors and gives the bread that signature apple cider taste that’s reminiscent of your favorite donuts.
• Room temperature ingredients: Using room temperature butter and eggs helps create a smoother batter. This ensures that all ingredients mix evenly, resulting in a tender crumb.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Once you combine the dry ingredients with wet ones, stir gently until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense bread, while gentle mixing keeps it light and airy.
• Check for doneness: Baking times can vary based on your oven. Insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf; it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached for perfect doneness.
• Cool before slicing: Allowing the bread to cool completely enhances its flavor and texture. It also helps prevent it from crumbling when you cut into it!

How to Serve Apple Cider Donut Bread

This apple cider donut bread is not only delicious but also versatile! Whether you’re serving it at brunch or enjoying it as an afternoon treat, presentation can elevate this comforting dish.

Garnishes

• Powdered Sugar Dusting: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar adds a touch of sweetness and makes your loaf look inviting.
• Chopped Nuts: Toasted walnuts or pecans add a delightful crunch and complement the soft texture of the bread.
• Fresh Apple Slices: Serve alongside thin slices of fresh apples for a refreshing contrast that echoes the apple flavor in the bread.

Side Dishes

• Warm Spiced Cider: A mug of warm spiced apple cider pairs beautifully with this loaf, enhancing its seasonal flavors.
• Cream Cheese Spread: A spread made from softened cream cheese mixed with honey or maple syrup adds creaminess and richness that balances the sweetness of the bread.
• Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fresh fruit for a light, refreshing side that complements the dense texture of the bread.
• Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, sliced apples, walnuts, and vinaigrette adds a crisp contrast to your meal while keeping things light.

Enjoy creating and sharing this delightful Apple Cider Donut Bread! Its warm spices and comforting flavors are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Apple Cider Donut Bread is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week, or have it ready for a special gathering.

Storing Leftovers

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you live in a humid climate, consider refrigerating it to prevent spoilage.

Freezing

• Allow the bread to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying.

Reheating

• To reheat a slice, simply pop it in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
• For a crispy exterior, reheat slices in a toaster oven at 350 degrees for about 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

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

Can I substitute apple cider with another liquid?

Yes! If you don’t have apple cider on hand, you can use apple juice or even a mix of water and apple extract for a similar flavor profile.

How does this Apple Cider Donut Bread compare to traditional donuts?

This bread captures the essence of apple cider donuts with its sweet apple flavor and crackly texture while being easier to make and serve!

What should I serve with Apple Cider Donut Bread?

This delicious bread pairs wonderfully with coffee or tea. You could also enjoy it as is or with a smear of your favorite spread.

Can I add nuts or raisins to the recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to fold in some chopped nuts or raisins into the batter for added texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Apple Cider Donut Bread as much as I do! It’s not just a recipe; it’s a delightful way to bring the flavors of fall into your kitchen. Whether you’re savoring it warm from the oven or sharing slices with loved ones, this bread is sure to create warm memories. Enjoy every bite and happy baking!