Apple Cider Donut Bread

If you’re looking for a cozy treat that brings the flavors of fall to your kitchen, you’ve found it with this Apple Cider Donut Bread! This recipe is a heartfelt homage to those delightful apple cider donuts we all crave. The moment you slice into this loaf, you’ll be greeted with a tender crumb and that signature crackly crust. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, making it an instant favorite for everyone who tries it.

Imagine serving this warm, fragrant bread with a cup of your favorite tea or coffee. It’s the kind of recipe that not only fills your home with warmth but also creates sweet memories shared around the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, you’ll have this delicious bread in no time!
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves the flavor of apples and cinnamon, making this a hit for both kids and adults.
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a holiday brunch or just a regular day, this bread makes everything feel special.
• Store-bought taste at home: Enjoy that bakery-style flavor without having to leave your kitchen.
• Make-ahead convenience: Bake it in advance and enjoy it throughout the week or share it with friends!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this scrumptious Apple Cider Donut Bread, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients. Each one contributes to the warm flavors that make this loaf so special.

For the Loaf:

• 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 get creative and customize it to your liking.

• Add nuts: Mix in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch.
• Incorporate fruit: Toss in some diced apples or raisins for added sweetness and texture.
• Spice it up: Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or ginger to give it a unique twist.
• Glaze it: Drizzle a simple icing made from powdered sugar and milk over the top for an extra layer 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 and then reduce to a simmer. This step is crucial because reducing the cider concentrates its flavor, giving your bread that rich apple essence we all love. Let it cook until it’s reduced by half, which should take about 20-30 minutes. Once done, remove from heat and set aside to cool while you preheat your oven.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Now it’s time to get your oven ready! Preheat it to 350 degrees Fahrenheit while you prepare your loaf pan. Greasing or buttering a 9×5 loaf pan will help ensure your bread comes out beautifully without sticking.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a mixing bowl, add the room-temperature butter along with brown sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat them together until light and fluffy. This step incorporates air into the mixture, helping create a lighter texture in your finished loaf.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

Next, beat in the egg and vanilla extract until everything is well combined. The egg helps bind the ingredients together while adding moisture.

Step 5: Mix Dry Ingredients

Now it’s time to add all of those wonderful dry ingredients! Gently fold in the flour, apple pie spice, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and finally stir in that reduced apple cider until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want a tender loaf!

Step 6: Bake Your Bread

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Pop it in your preheated oven and bake for about 50 minutes or until a tester comes out clean. The aroma will fill your kitchen—trust me; it’ll be hard to wait!

Step 7: Cool Down

Once baked, let the bread cool in its pan for about 15 minutes before transferring it onto a cooling rack set over a sheet pan. This allows any excess moisture to escape while keeping that crust nice and crisp.

Step 8: Add Topping

While still warm, brush melted butter over the top and sides of your loaf generously. Then mix sugar with cinnamon in a small bowl and sprinkle liberally over every inch of that delicious bread.

Step 9: Let It Rest

Let your lovingly made Apple Cider Donut Bread cool completely for about an hour before slicing into it. This waiting period helps set its structure so each slice holds together beautifully!

And there you have it—a homemade treat that’s bound to become an annual tradition! Enjoy every slice!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Cider Donut Bread

Making this delightful bread can be a breeze with just a few handy tips! Follow these suggestions to ensure your Apple Cider Donut Bread turns out perfectly every time.

• Use fresh apple cider: The flavor of your bread largely depends on the quality of the apple cider you use. Fresh, unfiltered cider will give your loaf a rich, authentic apple taste that enhances the whole experience.

• Don’t rush the cider reduction: Reducing the cider is crucial as it concentrates the flavors. Take your time to simmer it down to half; this step makes all the difference in achieving that deep apple flavor.

• Check for doneness: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your bread during baking. Use a toothpick or a cake tester inserted into the center; if it comes out clean, your bread is ready to come out!

• Cool completely before slicing: Allowing the bread to cool fully helps set its texture and makes slicing easier. Warm bread can crumble and lead to uneven slices, so patience pays off here!

• Store properly: To keep your bread fresh, store it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. This will prevent it from drying out and maintain its delicious flavor for several days.

How to Serve Apple Cider Donut Bread

Your Apple Cider Donut Bread not only tastes wonderful but also looks inviting when served right. Here are some fun ideas on how to present this loaf to impress family and friends!

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar adds a touch of sweetness and elegance.
• Whipped coconut cream: For a dairy-free option, serve with whipped coconut cream flavored with vanilla for a creamy contrast.

Side Dishes

• Warm apple slices: Sauté sliced apples in a little cinnamon and sugar for a warm side that echoes the flavors of the bread.
• Hot chai tea: The spiced notes of chai perfectly complement the apple cider flavors in the bread.
• Crisp salad: A simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette provides a refreshing balance to the richness of the bread.
• Pumpkin soup: The warmth and creaminess of pumpkin soup create a cozy pairing perfect for autumn evenings.

Enjoy creating these beautiful moments around your Apple Cider Donut Bread—you deserve every delicious slice!

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. Here’s how to store and preserve its delightful flavors:

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, refrigerate the bread, which can extend its shelf life to about a week.

Freezing

• Allow the bread to cool completely before freezing to prevent ice crystals from forming.
• Wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Apple Cider Donut Bread can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to label it with the date!

Reheating

• To reheat, simply slice off a piece and warm it in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds.
• For a crispier texture, toast slices on a skillet over medium heat for a couple of minutes on each side.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delicious recipe:

Can I use fresh apple cider instead of store-bought?

Absolutely! Fresh apple cider will give your Apple Cider Donut Bread an even more vibrant flavor. Just be sure to reduce it down as instructed in the recipe.

How can I make my Apple Cider Donut Bread healthier?

You could substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or use coconut sugar instead of brown sugar for a lower glycemic index option.

What can I serve with Apple Cider Donut Bread?

This bread pairs wonderfully with a warm cup of tea or coffee. It also makes a lovely addition to brunch spreads alongside fresh fruit or yogurt.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Apple Cider Donut Bread as much as we do! It’s truly special with its warm spices and tender texture, making it perfect for cozy fall days. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or toasted later on, this bread is bound to bring smiles all around. Happy baking!