Apple Cider Donut Bread

Introduction

There’s something irresistibly comforting about the aroma of apples, cinnamon, and sugar wafting through your kitchen. This Apple Cider Donut Bread captures that cozy fall feeling in a loaf form, combining the sweet, spiced flavors of traditional apple cider donuts into an easy-to-bake bread. Whether you’re enjoying it with a cup of coffee, gifting it to a neighbor, or serving it for brunch, this recipe is guaranteed to bring warmth and smiles to your table.

My recipe story

Growing up, my favorite part of fall was visiting the local apple orchard with my family. We would sip on fresh apple cider and indulge in warm, spiced apple cider donuts, fresh from the fryer. Over the years, I wanted to bring that experience home without the hassle of frying. After many trials, I developed this Apple Cider Donut Bread—a loaf bursting with the same comforting flavors but in a moist, easy-to-slice format. It has since become a family favorite, perfect for fall mornings and cozy afternoons.

Ingredient breakdown

This recipe relies on simple pantry ingredients combined with the natural sweetness and flavor of apple cider. The base of the bread is all-purpose flour, which provides structure, while granulated sugar adds sweetness and helps with browning. Baking powder ensures the bread rises evenly and achieves a light, tender crumb. Apple pie spice brings warmth and seasonal flavor, mimicking the spices found in classic apple cider donuts. Salt is essential to balance the sweetness and enhance the spices.

For wet ingredients, eggs provide richness and structure, while vegetable oil keeps the bread moist and tender. Apple cider is the star ingredient—it not only adds flavor but also contributes natural sweetness and acidity, which helps the leavening agents work effectively. Vanilla extract rounds out the flavor profile, bringing everything together for a comforting, aromatic loaf. Finally, a cinnamon-sugar topping adds a sweet, slightly crunchy finish reminiscent of traditional donut coatings.

Equipment you’ll need

• 9×5-inch loaf pan
• Mixing bowls (medium and large)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk or electric mixer
• Spatula
• Cooling rack
• Small bowl for cinnamon-sugar topping

Step-by-step directions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease your 9×5-inch loaf pan. Greasing ensures the bread won’t stick and helps create golden, crisp edges.

Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, apple pie spice, and salt. Whisk thoroughly to evenly distribute the spices and leavening agents, which ensures a consistent flavor and proper rise.

Step 3: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, vegetable oil, apple cider, and vanilla extract. Make sure the ingredients are well blended for a smooth, cohesive batter.

Step 4: Gradually fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients using a spatula. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense, tough bread.

Step 5: Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the surface for that signature donut-inspired topping.

Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Check around the 50-minute mark to avoid overbaking.

Step 7: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling helps the loaf set properly and prevents it from becoming soggy.

Variations & substitutions

You can easily adapt this Apple Cider Donut Bread to suit your taste or dietary needs. Swap half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and added fiber. Add chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts for extra texture and crunch. For a fruitier twist, fold in small apple chunks or dried cranberries. To make a gluten-free version, replace the flour with a gluten-free baking blend and increase the baking powder slightly to help with rising.

Storage, freezing & make-ahead

This Apple Cider Donut Bread keeps well at room temperature for up to 3 days if stored in an airtight container. For longer storage, wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature. You can also slice the bread before freezing for easy portioning and toast individual slices as needed for a warm, fresh taste.

Serving ideas & pairings

Serve this bread warm with a pat of butter or a drizzle of maple syrup for a delightful breakfast or brunch treat. Pair it with a hot cup of coffee, spiced latte, or apple cider for a cozy experience. For dessert, top slices with cream cheese frosting or a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and apple cider. It also pairs wonderfully with vanilla ice cream for an indulgent twist.

FAQ

Q: Can I make this bread without eggs?
A: Yes, you can use flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water per egg) as a substitute. The texture may be slightly denser but still delicious.

Q: Can I use apple juice instead of apple cider?
A: Apple juice can be used, but fresh apple cider provides a richer, spiced flavor that best replicates traditional apple cider donuts.

Q: How do I prevent the bread from sinking in the middle?
A: Make sure your baking powder is fresh, and avoid overmixing the batter. Also, do not open the oven door during the first 30 minutes of baking.

Q: Can I add frosting or glaze?
A: Absolutely! A simple glaze made from powdered sugar and apple cider complements the cinnamon-sugar topping beautifully.

Q: Can this bread be made in muffins?
A: Yes, simply divide the batter into a greased or lined muffin tin and bake for 18–22 minutes. They make perfect single-serve portions.

Final thoughts

Apple Cider Donut Bread is a wonderful way to enjoy the flavors of fall all year round. It’s easy to make, deliciously spiced, and versatile enough for breakfast, dessert, or gifting. With a soft, moist crumb and a sweet cinnamon-sugar topping, this loaf captures all the nostalgia of fresh apple cider donuts without the hassle of frying. Whip up a batch today and fill your kitchen with the comforting aroma of autumn in every slice!

Apple Cider Donut Bread

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• Author: Sarah White
• Total Time: 70 minutes
• Yield: 1 loaf (8–10 slices)
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

 Moist and spiced Apple Cider Donut Bread with a sweet cinnamon-sugar topping, perfect for breakfast or cozy fall mornings.

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Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups (300 g) granulated sugar

• 2 teaspoons baking powder

• 2 teaspoons apple pie spice
• ½ teaspoon salt

• 2 large eggs

• ½ cup (120 ml) vegetable oil
• ¾ cup (180 ml) apple cider

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar + 1 teaspoon cinnamon for topping

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.

2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, apple pie spice, and salt.

3. In a separate bowl, whisk eggs, oil, apple cider, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Gently fold wet ingredients into dry ingredients until just combined.

5. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth the top, then sprinkle with cinnamon-sugar mixture.

6. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Cool in pan for 10–15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

 For extra flavor, fold in small apple chunks or chopped nuts. Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Serve warm with butter, maple syrup, or a light glaze.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 55 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American