Apple Cider Donut Bread – Cozy Fall Baking at Its Best
This Apple Cider Donut Bread is what fall dreams are made of. Inspired by the beloved orchard treat, this loaf combines the bold, spiced flavor of reduced apple cider with a buttery, cinnamon-sugar crust that will remind you of warm donuts on a crisp autumn day.
With rich brown sugar, warm apple pie spices, and a tender crumb, this recipe is perfect for fall baking, sharing with friends, or just cozying up with a slice and a mug of cider.
Why I Love This Recipe
This recipe takes everything I love about apple cider donuts—the soft interior, the crisp sugary coating, and the warm spices—and transforms it into an easy-to-make loaf. Reducing the apple cider gives a concentrated apple flavor that really comes through in every bite.
It’s the kind of recipe you’ll want to make again and again during apple season—and it makes your kitchen smell incredible while baking.
📝 Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Bread:
- 2 cups apple cider
- 1/2 cup butter, room temperature
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon apple pie spice
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Topping:
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
🍏 Ingredient Notes & Tips
- Apple Cider: Reducing it concentrates the flavor—don’t skip this step.
- Apple Pie Spice: If you don’t have a mix, use a combo of cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice.
- Butter: Room temp butter helps whip up that perfect creamed base with the brown sugar.
- Topping Tip: Brush while the bread is still warm so the sugar adheres perfectly.
👩🍳 How to Make Apple Cider Donut Bread
- Reduce the cider: In a saucepan, bring 2 cups of apple cider to a boil, then reduce to a simmer until it’s down to 1 cup (about 20–30 minutes). Let cool.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- Make the batter:
- In a bowl, beat butter and brown sugar until fluffy.
- Mix in the egg and vanilla.
- Add dry ingredients (flour, apple pie spice, baking powder, baking soda, salt).
- Stir in the reduced cider just until combined.
- Bake: Pour into prepared pan and bake for 50 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool & top: Let cool in the pan for 15 minutes. Transfer to a rack. Brush with melted butter.
- Add cinnamon sugar: Combine sugar and cinnamon, sprinkle generously over the bread.
- Let cool completely before slicing and serving.
🌟 Tips for Success
- Don’t overmix: Stir just until the dry ingredients disappear for the softest crumb.
- Double the topping: If you love extra crunch, coat the bottom of the loaf too!
- Great for gifting: Wrap in parchment and twine for a rustic fall gift.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Serve this bread:
- Warm with a pat of butter or apple butter
- With coffee, tea, or a mug of mulled cider
- To guests alongside Pumpkin Spice Muffins
- For brunch with Chocolate Chip Banana Bread and fruit
- As a sweet treat after a hearty fall meal
🧊 Storage & Freezing
- Store at room temp for up to 3 days, covered loosely.
- Refrigerate for longer shelf life—up to 1 week.
- Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat slices.
🍁 More Cozy Fall Recipes You’ll Love
- Caramel Apple Pie Cookies
- Easy Pumpkin Spice Muffins
- Pumpkin Delight Dessert
- Chocolate Chip Banana Bread
- Old-School No-Bake Cookies
💬 Final Thoughts
This Apple Cider Donut Bread is a fall favorite for good reason—warm spices, tender texture, and a sweet cinnamon-sugar crust make it hard to resist. Whether you’re baking for a cozy morning, a fall get-together, or just to fill your kitchen with that heavenly orchard scent, this recipe delivers.
Tried it? Tag @chefmaniac and share your slice of fall—we love seeing your bakes!
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