Apple Cider Donut Bread Recipe
Introduction
Apple Cider Donut Bread combines the cozy flavors of autumn into a soft, moist loaf that’s perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack. This easy recipe captures the warm spices and tangy cider that make apple cider donuts so beloved.

Ingredients
- 1 cup apple cider
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, mix the apple cider, flour, sugar, and cinnamon together until well combined into a smooth batter.
- Step 2: Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan and bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the top turns golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Step 3: Remove the bread from the oven and brush the top generously with melted butter. Sprinkle cinnamon sugar over the butter while it’s still warm for that classic donut coating.
Tips & Variations
- Use fresh apple cider for the best flavor; canned works too but may be less vibrant.
- Try adding chopped apples or nuts into the batter for extra texture and taste.
- For a richer bread, substitute half the sugar with brown sugar or add a teaspoon of vanilla extract.
Storage
Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat slices in a toaster or microwave to enjoy the buttery cinnamon topping warm.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use apple juice instead of apple cider?
Apple juice can be used, but apple cider offers a tangier, spicier flavor that suits this recipe better.
How do I know when the bread is fully baked?
The bread is done when it turns a golden color and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean without wet batter.
PrintApple Cider Donut Bread Recipe
Apple Cider Donut Bread is a deliciously moist and flavorful quick bread infused with the warm spices of cinnamon and the fruity tang of apple cider. This easy-to-make bread is perfect for breakfast or a cozy snack, offering the nostalgic taste of apple cider donuts in a convenient loaf form. It’s finished with a buttery cinnamon sugar glaze that adds a delightful sweet crunch on top.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (10-12 slices) 1x
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup apple cider
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted (for brushing)
Dry Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional, for extra spice)
- 2 large eggs
- 3/4 cup buttermilk or plain yogurt
Topping
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Prepare the oven and pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and nutmeg until well combined.
- Combine wet ingredients: In another bowl, mix the apple cider, eggs, and buttermilk until smooth.
- Create the batter: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.
- Bake the bread: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown.
- Make the cinnamon sugar topping: While the bread is baking, combine the remaining sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl for the topping.
- Brush with butter and apply topping: Once the bread is out of the oven and still warm, brush the top generously with melted butter, then sprinkle evenly with the cinnamon sugar mixture to create a delicious crust.
- Cool and serve: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy your apple cider donut bread!
Notes
- Use fresh apple cider for the best flavor; avoid apple juice as it is less concentrated and may alter the taste.
- The optional nutmeg adds a nice depth but can be omitted if unavailable.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute buttermilk with almond milk and add 1 tsp lemon juice to mimic tanginess.
- Store any leftovers wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- This bread freezes well; wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
Keywords: apple cider donut bread, cinnamon bread, quick bread, apple spice bread, fall baking, autumn bread, cinnamon sugar bread

