If you love the cozy, spicy sweetness of autumn baked goods, you are absolutely going to fall head over heels for this Cider Donut Bread Recipe. Imagine soft, moist bread infused with fragrant apple cider and warm apple pie spices, topped with a perfectly crisp sugar-spice crust that captures all the magic of cider donuts in a loaf form. It’s the ultimate comfort treat for breakfast, snack time, or even dessert, radiating fall flavors and that irresistible homemade charm in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is key to nailing this Cider Donut Bread Recipe. Each component plays a crucial role, from the tender texture of flour to the warm spices that bring everything to life. Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious bread:
- 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour: This forms the structure for the bread, providing a tender crumb.
- 1 ½ cups (300 g) granulated sugar: Sweetens the bread and helps create that golden crust.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder: A leavening agent that ensures the bread rises beautifully.
- 2 teaspoons apple pie spice: A fragrant mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice that delivers fall flavor magic.
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- 1 ¼ cups apple cider (or apple juice): Adds moisture and a subtle apple tang throughout the bread.
- 1 large egg (room temperature): Binds ingredients and adds richness for a tender crumb.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted): Contributes to a moist texture and buttery flavor.
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract: Amplifies sweetness and adds a warm aroma.
- ¼ cup apple cider: Used after baking to brush on the loaf for extra moisture and flavor infusion.
- ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar: For the topping, creating a sweet, crunchy crust.
- 2 teaspoons apple pie spice: Mixed with the topping sugar to bring that signature cider donut spice to the crust.
How to Make Cider Donut Bread Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray an 8 ½ by 4 ½-inch loaf pan with nonstick cooking spray. This simple step ensures your bread won’t stick and will come out nicely when baked.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, apple pie spice, and kosher salt. This evenly distributes your leavening and spices, giving the bread a consistent rise and flavorful bite throughout.
Step 3: Whisk Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk the apple cider, large egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract until they come together in a smooth, aromatic mixture that promises incredible flavor and moisture.
Step 4: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, then gently stir with a spatula just until everything is combined. Be careful not to overmix—the batter should be slightly runny and lumpy. That’s the secret to keeping your bread tender and moist.
Step 5: Bake the Bread
Transfer the batter evenly into your prepared loaf pan, then bake for 65 to 75 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs and the top is a beautiful golden brown.
Step 6: Infuse with Apple Cider
Remove the bread from the oven but keep it in the pan. While still warm, gently pour ¼ cup of apple cider over the top. This step infuses the loaf with extra moisture and a burst of fresh apple flavor that makes every bite sing.
Step 7: Add That Signature Sugar-Spice Crust
Mix together ½ cup granulated sugar and 2 teaspoons apple pie spice in a small bowl. Then remove the bread from the pan onto parchment paper and sprinkle the sugar mixture evenly over every inch of the loaf. This crust is what transforms this bread into a true cider donut experience.
Step 8: Cool Completely Before Serving
Allow the bread to cool fully on the parchment paper so the topping can set and the flavors meld beautifully. Then slice up and get ready to enjoy your hard work.
How to Serve Cider Donut Bread Recipe
Garnishes
A light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of warm caramel sauce takes this cider donut bread to the next level. Fresh apple slices alongside make a crunchy, fresh contrast that is just divine.
Side Dishes
This bread pairs beautifully with a cup of spiced chai tea or a steaming mug of coffee. For a heartier breakfast, add scrambled eggs or a dollop of cream cheese as a savory complement to balance the sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice the bread into thick pieces and toast lightly, then spread with cinnamon butter or cream cheese frosting for a decadent treat. It also makes an unexpected but delightful French toast when soaked overnight and fried gently the next morning.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftover cider donut bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This keeps it soft and moist without drying out.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, freeze slices individually wrapped in parchment and foil. They’ll maintain their flavor and texture for up to three months. Just thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy.
Reheating
Reheat slices in a toaster oven or microwave for a few seconds until warm and fragrant. This refreshes the bread’s softness and brings those spices back to life wonderfully.
FAQs
Can I substitute apple juice for apple cider in this recipe?
Absolutely! Apple juice works just as well and still imparts that lovely apple flavor, though cider often adds a bit more depth and slight tartness.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, but make sure it contains xanthan gum to help mimic the structure regular flour provides.
How spicy is the apple pie spice in this bread?
The spice blend adds warmth and sweetness without being overpowering. If you prefer a milder flavor, start with less and add more to taste.
Can I make this bread vegan?
With simple swaps like using a flax egg instead of the large egg and a plant-based butter, you can make a vegan version that’s just as delightful.
What’s the best way to slice this bread without breaking it?
Use a serrated bread knife and slice gently with a sawing motion. It helps to slice when the bread is completely cool for cleaner, neater pieces.
Final Thoughts
I can’t encourage you enough to try this Cider Donut Bread Recipe—it’s truly one of those cozy kitchen treasures that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just because, each bite is packed with comforting fall flavors that everyone will adore. So grab your ingredients, put on some music, and let’s bake something deliciously unforgettable!
Print
Cider Donut Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Cider Donut Bread recipe is a delightful twist on classic fall flavors, combining the warm spices of apple pie spice with the moist richness of apple cider-infused bread. Perfect for a cozy breakfast or an indulgent snack, the bread is finished with a sweet and spicy sugar topping that mimics the beloved cider donut experience. Easy to make and irresistibly aromatic, this loaf brings the taste of autumn into your kitchen with minimal fuss.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups (300 g) granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 2 teaspoons apple pie spice
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
Wet Ingredients:
- 1 ¼ cups apple cider (or apple juice)
- 1 large egg (room temperature)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Topping:
- ¼ cup apple cider
- ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons apple pie spice
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare loaf pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray an 8 ½ x 4 ½-inch loaf pan with nonstick cooking spray to ensure the bread doesn’t stick after baking.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, apple pie spice, and kosher salt. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents and spices.
- Whisk wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, thoroughly whisk the apple cider, large egg, melted unsalted butter, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
- Mix wet and dry ingredients: Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Gently stir with a spatula or spoon just until combined. The batter should remain slightly runny and lumpy; avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.
- Pour batter into pan: Transfer the batter evenly into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top gently to ensure uniform baking.
- Bake the bread: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 65 to 75 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs, and the top should be golden brown.
- Cool slightly in pan: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This helps the bread set and makes it easier to handle.
- Brush with apple cider: While the bread is still warm, gently pour the ¼ cup of apple cider over the top of the loaf right in the pan. This step infuses extra moisture and intensifies the apple flavor.
- Prepare sugar-spice topping: In a small bowl, combine the ½ cup granulated sugar and 2 teaspoons apple pie spice. Mix well to create a flavorful coating.
- Remove bread from pan: Carefully lift or invert the bread onto a large piece of parchment paper to avoid breaking it while turning it out of the pan.
- Coat with sugar-spice: Sprinkle the sugar and apple pie spice mixture evenly over the entire surface of the bread. Rotate the loaf as necessary to fully cover all sides, creating a sweet and spicy crust reminiscent of cider donuts.
- Cool completely before serving: Allow the bread to cool fully on the parchment paper. This helps the topping set properly and allows the flavors to meld beautifully before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Use fresh apple cider for the best authentic flavor, but apple juice can be substituted if needed.
- Make sure not to overmix the batter to keep the bread light and tender.
- The sugar-spice mixture can be adjusted to your taste if you prefer more or less sweetness or spice.
- This bread stores well wrapped at room temperature for up to 3 days or can be frozen for longer storage.
- Serve slightly warm for the most comforting experience, or toasted with butter.
