Baked Apple Cider Donut Bread: Your New Fall Favorite

Apple Cider Donut Bread offers a delightful culinary fusion, bringing the beloved flavors of autumn’s most iconic donut into a convenient, sliceable loaf. Have you ever craved the crisp, spiced, sugary coating and tender crumb of a freshly made apple cider donut, but without the fuss and mess of deep-frying? If so, you’re in for an absolute treat. This innovative recipe captures the quintessential essence of those nostalgic, cider mill mornings that many of us cherish, particularly during the vibrant fall season in regions where apple orchards abound. This treat embodies the spirit of harvest festivals and cozy gatherings, evoking a sense of warmth and tradition.

I find immense joy in crafting dishes that evoke such wonderful memories, and this loaf does exactly that. It’s truly a labor of love that transforms simple ingredients into something extraordinary. People adore this dish not only for its incredible taste—a perfect harmony of sweet apple cider, warm spices, and a delightful cinnamon-sugar crunch—but also for its incredibly moist texture and the sheer convenience it offers. Imagine the aromatic spices filling your home as this bakes; the aroma alone is pure autumn bliss. This Apple Cider Donut Bread provides all the comfort and flavor you desire, making it an ideal choice for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack. It’s an inviting way to savor the spirit of fall in every single bite, without the need for a fryer!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

Get ready to infuse your kitchen with the most delightful autumn aromas! This recipe for Apple Cider Donut Bread truly captures the essence of a crisp fall day, combining the comforting warmth of a loaf cake with the irresistible flavors of a freshly baked apple cider donut. Here’s everything you’ll need:

• For the Apple Cider Donut Bread:
  • 2 ½ cups (300g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
  • 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
  • ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
  • ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • ½ cup (100g) packed light brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • ¾ cup (180ml) unsweetened apple cider, reduced (see instructions)
• For the Cinnamon Streusel Topping:
  • ¼ cup (30g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons (25g) granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon (12g) packed light brown sugar
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 2 tablespoons (28g) cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
• For the Apple Cider Glaze:
  • 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar, sifted
  • 2 tablespoons (30ml) unsweetened apple cider, reduced (see instructions)
  • ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• For the Donut-Style Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
  • ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 2 tablespoons (28g) unsalted butter, melted

Preparing the Apple Cider Reduction:

1. First things first, let’s get that amazing apple cider flavor concentrated for our Apple Cider Donut Bread. You’ll need to reduce some of your apple cider. Measure out about 1 cup (240ml) of unsweetened apple cider and pour it into a small saucepan.
2. Bring the cider to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Let it simmer, stirring occasionally, until it has reduced by about half, leaving you with approximately ½ cup (120ml) of thick, flavorful apple cider syrup. This usually takes about 10-15 minutes. Keep a close eye on it, as it can reduce quickly towards the end. We’re aiming for a concentrated flavor that will truly make this Apple Cider Donut Bread shine.
3. Remove the reduced cider from the heat and set it aside to cool completely to room temperature. This cooling step is crucial; you don’t want to add hot liquid to your batter, as it could affect the texture. While it cools, you can begin preparing your streusel and measuring out your other ingredients.

Preparing the Cinnamon Streusel Topping:

4. In a small bowl, combine the ¼ cup all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon light brown sugar, and ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon for your streusel topping. Use a fork or a small whisk to mix these dry ingredients together thoroughly. You want to ensure the cinnamon is evenly distributed so every bite has that warm, spiced kick.
5. Add the 2 tablespoons of cold unsalted butter, which you’ve cut into small pieces. Now, using your fingertips, a pastry blender, or even two forks, work the butter into the dry ingredients. You’re aiming for a crumbly mixture that resembles coarse sand with some pea-sized pieces of butter still visible. Don’t overmix! The key to a good streusel is to keep those little bits of butter intact, as they will melt during baking, creating pockets of deliciousness.
6. Once your streusel is perfectly crumbly, set it aside. You can even pop it into the refrigerator for a few minutes if your kitchen is particularly warm, just to keep those butter pieces nice and firm until you’re ready to sprinkle it over the batter. This streusel is going to add an incredible textural contrast to our moist and tender Apple Cider Donut Bread.

Preparing the Apple Cider Donut Bread Batter:

7. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your oven is at the correct temperature when the batter is ready to go in, which is vital for even baking and proper leavening.
8. Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan, or line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the longer sides. The parchment paper method is my personal favorite, as it makes lifting the baked Apple Cider Donut Bread out of the pan a breeze. Set this prepared pan aside.
9. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour, 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder, ½ teaspoon baking soda, ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg, ¼ teaspoon ground ginger, and ½ teaspoon fine sea salt. Whisk vigorously for about 30 seconds to ensure all the leavening agents and spices are evenly distributed. This step is more important than people often realize for a consistent bake.
10. In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer (either a stand mixer with the paddle attachment or a hand mixer), cream together the ½ cup softened unsalted butter, 1 cup granulated sugar, and ½ cup packed light brown sugar. Beat on medium-high speed for about 3-4 minutes, or until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color. This creaming process incorporates air into the butter and sugar, which contributes significantly to the light and tender crumb of our Apple Cider Donut Bread. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure everything is well combined.
11. Add the 2 large room temperature eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Make sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, stir in the 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract. The mixture might look a little curdled at this point, but don’t worry, it will come together as you add the dry ingredients.
12. With the mixer on low speed, gradually add about one-third of the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until almost combined. Then, pour in half of the cooled, reduced apple cider. Mix until just incorporated.
13. Continue this alternating process: add another third of the dry ingredients, mix, then the remaining half of the reduced apple cider, mix, and finally, add the last third of the dry ingredients. Mix only until just combined! Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, which can lead to a tough and dense bread, and we’re aiming for a tender, moist Apple Cider Donut Bread. A few small streaks of flour are perfectly fine.
14. Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Use a spatula to gently spread the batter evenly. It will be quite thick, but that’s exactly what we want.
15. Sprinkle the cinnamon streusel topping evenly over the top of the batter. Don’t be shy here; this streusel is going to create a gorgeous, crunchy texture on top that contrasts beautifully with the soft bread beneath.

Baking the Apple Cider Donut Bread:

16. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-65 minutes. The exact baking time can vary depending on your oven, so it’s always good to keep an eye on it.
17. The Apple Cider Donut Bread is done when a wooden skewer or toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with only a few moist crumbs attached. If you notice the top browning too quickly, you can loosely tent the loaf pan with aluminum foil for the last 15-20 minutes of baking.
18. Once baked, remove the loaf pan from the oven and place it on a wire rack. Let the bread cool in the pan for about 15-20 minutes. This allows the bread to set and prevents it from crumbling when you remove it.
19. After 15-20 minutes, carefully lift the bread out of the pan using the parchment paper overhangs (if you used them) or invert it onto the wire rack. Allow the Apple Cider Donut Bread to cool completely on the wire rack before applying any glaze or coating. This is a critical step! If you glaze or coat it while warm, the glaze will melt and absorb into the bread, making it soggy instead of creating that beautiful, sugary finish we’re after. Patience is a virtue here!

Preparing the Glaze and Donut-Style Coating:

20. While the Apple Cider Donut Bread is cooling, you can prepare the glaze and the donut-style coating. For the glaze, in a small bowl, whisk together the 1 cup sifted powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons unsweetened apple cider (you can use some of the un-reduced cider if you have extra, or reduce a tiny bit more for a more intense flavor), and ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract until smooth and pourable. If the glaze is too thick, add a tiny bit more cider (half a teaspoon at a time). If it’s too thin, add a tiny bit more powdered sugar. You want a consistency that slowly drips off a spoon.
21. For the donut-style cinnamon sugar coating, in another small, shallow bowl, combine the ¼ cup granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon. Mix them together thoroughly until the cinnamon is evenly dispersed.
22. In a third small bowl, melt the 2 tablespoons unsalted butter. You can do this gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.
23. Once the Apple Cider Donut Bread is completely cool, prepare to transform it into its donut-like glory. First, brush the melted butter all over the top and sides of the cooled bread. You want a good, even layer, as this is what the cinnamon sugar will adhere to.
24. Immediately after brushing with butter, sprinkle and gently press the cinnamon sugar mixture all over the buttered bread. Ensure good coverage, as this coating truly mimics the classic apple cider donut experience. Don’t be shy; load it up!
25. Finally, drizzle the prepared apple cider glaze generously over the top of the cinnamon-sugar coated Apple Cider Donut Bread. You can do this in an artistic zig-zag pattern or simply pour it over and let it elegantly drip down the sides. The glaze will set as it dries, creating a beautiful finish and an extra layer of sweetness and apple cider flavor.
26. Allow the glaze to set for about 15-20 minutes, or until it’s no longer sticky to the touch. Once set, your magnificent Apple Cider Donut Bread is ready to be sliced and devoured!

Conclusion:

So, there you have it! We’ve journeyed through the creation of what I truly believe is one of the most delightful and comforting baked goods you’ll ever encounter. This isn’t just another loaf of bread; it’s an experience, a fusion of everything wonderful about autumn, baked into a tender, golden masterpiece. If you’ve been searching for that quintessential fall flavor, that perfect balance of sweet, spiced, and just a hint of tang, then look no further. This recipe for Apple Cider Donut Bread delivers on every single promise. It’s got that irresistible cakey crumb you adore in a fresh donut, but in a convenient, sliceable loaf form, making it incredibly versatile for any time of day.

The infusion of real apple cider brings a depth of flavor that’s simply unparalleled, not just a whisper, but a rich, fruity note that beautifully complements the cinnamon and nutmeg. It’s the kind of aroma that fills your kitchen and immediately makes your home feel cozy and inviting. Imagine biting into a slice that’s perfectly moist, with a delicate chew, and then experiencing the subtle crunch of the sugar-cinnamon topping – it’s pure bliss. I’ve tested this recipe countless times to ensure it’s absolutely foolproof, giving you consistent, delicious results every single time you bake it. It truly embodies the spirit of the season, a culinary hug on a chilly morning, or a sophisticated sweet treat to share with loved ones. The simplicity of its preparation belies the complexity of its flavor profile, making it a truly rewarding project for bakers of all skill levels. It’s a game-changer for your breakfast table, an unexpected star at brunch, and a delightful companion to your afternoon coffee. Trust me when I say, once you try this, it’ll earn a permanent spot in your seasonal baking rotation.

Elevate Your Enjoyment: Serving Suggestions & Variations

Now, let’s talk about how to truly elevate your Apple Cider Donut Bread experience. While it is absolutely divine on its own, still warm from the oven, perhaps with a simple cup of hot coffee or a steaming mug of spiced apple cider, there are so many wonderful ways to enjoy it. For a truly indulgent dessert, I love serving a thick slice, gently warmed, with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream that slowly melts into its tender crumb. A drizzle of homemade caramel sauce or a dollop of freshly whipped cream wouldn’t go amiss either – it transforms it into a show-stopping sweet. Don’t be afraid to experiment! You could lightly toast slices and spread them with a spiced apple butter for an extra layer of apple goodness, or even a creamy goat cheese for a surprising sweet-savory twist.

If you’re feeling adventurous with variations, consider adding a handful of finely chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a delightful textural contrast. A sprinkle of grated orange zest alongside the cinnamon and nutmeg can brighten the flavor profile beautifully. For a richer, deeper note, a touch of maple extract or brown sugar in the batter can also be lovely. And remember, this bread stores wonderfully! Keep it wrapped tightly at room temperature for up to three days, or freeze individual slices for a quick, comforting treat whenever a craving strikes. Just pop them in the microwave or toaster oven for a few moments, and you’ll be transported back to that freshly baked feeling.

So, my friends, what are you waiting for? I sincerely hope you feel inspired to roll up your sleeves and give this incredible recipe a try. It’s more than just baking; it’s about creating moments, sharing warmth, and indulging in the pure joy of homemade goodness. There’s something truly magical about pulling a perfectly golden loaf out of your oven, especially one that smells as heavenly as this Apple Cider Donut Bread. Don’t hesitate to dive in! I promise you, the rewarding aroma, the delightful flavor, and the sheer satisfaction of making something so wonderful from scratch will make every step worth it. And when you do bake it, please, please share your triumphs with me! I absolutely adore seeing your creations. Snap a picture, tell me what you loved most about it, or even share any fun variations you came up with. Your experiences inspire me and the entire community of home bakers. Let’s make this autumn a little sweeter, a little cozier, and a lot more delicious, one slice of this irresistible bread at a time. Happy baking!

Apple Cider Donut Bread

Apple Cider Donut Bread offers a delightful culinary fusion, bringing the beloved flavors of autumn’s most iconic donut into a convenient, sliceable loaf. This treat captures the quintessential essence of nostalgic, cider mill mornings.

Prep Time
25 Minutes

Cook Time
60 Minutes

Total Time
45 Minutes

Servings
1 loaf (10 servings)

Ingredients

• ½ cup apple cider
• ½ cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce
• 3 Tablespoons plain Greek yogurt
• 2 cups all purpose flour
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ½ Tablespoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

1. Step 1
   Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line with parchment paper.
2. Step 2
   In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder, ¼ teaspoon baking soda, ½ teaspoon salt, 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon, and ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg.
3. Step 3
   In a large bowl, cream ½ cup softened unsalted butter and 1 cup packed light brown sugar until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).
4. Step 4
   Beat in 2 large eggs, one at a time. Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce, and 3 Tablespoons plain Greek yogurt.
5. Step 5
   Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with ½ cup apple cider. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.
6. Step 6
   Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake for 50-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Step 7
   Cool in the pan for 15-20 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Step 8
   Once bread is completely cool, in a small bowl, combine ¼ cup granulated sugar and ½ Tablespoon ground cinnamon. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the bread. Slice and serve.

Important Information

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.