There’s something magical about the way fall smells, sweet, spicy, and warm. The first time I baked this Apple Cider Donut Bread, my entire kitchen filled with that cozy apple-pie scent. I’d just come home from an apple orchard with a gallon of fresh cider, and I was craving something between a classic donut and a slice of fluffy quick bread. One bowl later, I had a loaf in the oven, and let me tell you, it didn’t last a full day. If you’re looking for the best apple cider donut bread that feels like autumn in every bite, you’re in the right place.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Apple Cider Donut Bread
- Bursting with real apple cider flavor in every moist bite
- Easy, fuss-free one-bowl batter
- Made with pantry staples, no hard-to-find ingredients
- Perfect for fall breakfasts, brunch, or gifting
- That cinnamon-sugar topping? It’s chef’s kiss delicious
- It tastes like your favorite fairground donut, no frying required
- Feeds a crowd and freezes beautifully
Unlike many versions that fall flat, this one gets a double dose of cider, baked into the batter and soaked on top. The result? Moist, flavorful, tender bread with a nostalgic donut finish that practically melts in your mouth.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Apple Cider Donut Bread
For the bread batter:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – scoop and level for best results
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar – adds sweetness and structure
- 2 teaspoons baking powder – for a light rise
- 2 teaspoons apple pie spice – cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves blend
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt – to balance the sweetness
- 1 ¼ cups apple cider or apple juice – reduced cider adds deeper flavor
- 1 large egg, at room temperature – for binding
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted – adds richness
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract – rounds out the flavor
For the topping:
- ¼ cup apple cider – soaks into the warm loaf for moisture
- ½ cup granulated sugar – for a sweet, crisp crust
- 2 teaspoons apple pie spice – boosts the fall vibes
How to Make Apple Cider Donut Bread
- Preheat and Prep
Start by heating your oven to 350°F. Lightly spray an 8 ½ x 4 ½-inch loaf pan with nonstick spray or grease with butter. Line the bottom with parchment if you prefer easy removal. - Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, apple pie spice, and salt. Make sure everything is well distributed so the loaf bakes evenly. - Whisk the Wet Ingredients
In a separate medium bowl, combine the apple cider, egg, melted butter, and vanilla. Whisk until the mixture looks smooth and the egg is fully incorporated. - Combine Wet and Dry
Pour the wet mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients. Gently fold them together using a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined. Don’t overmix, it’s okay if a few lumps remain. The batter should be on the thinner side. - Pour and Bake
Transfer the batter to your prepared loaf pan and spread it out evenly. Bake for 65–75 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs. - Soak with Cider
After baking, allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. While still warm, pour the additional ¼ cup of apple cider over the loaf. It’ll soak in and keep the bread moist and flavorful. - Coat with Sugar-Spice Mix
Mix together the sugar and apple pie spice in a small bowl. Carefully remove the loaf from the pan, place it on parchment paper, and roll or sprinkle the sugar mixture onto all sides. Don’t skip this step, it’s what gives it that irresistible donut-like crust. - Cool and Slice
Let the bread cool completely before slicing. This helps it set and makes for cleaner cuts. Serve with coffee, cider, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream if you’re feeling extra indulgent.
Serving and Storage Tips
This Apple Cider Donut Bread shines brightest when served slightly warm, fresh out of the oven or gently reheated. Slice it thick and pair with a cozy mug of chai or spiced coffee for the ultimate fall treat. If you’re craving more apple goodness, try my Mini Cinnamon Apple Fritters, they’re bite-sized and just as comforting.
To store, let the loaf cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or placing it in an airtight container. It’ll stay moist at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to 1 week or freeze slices for up to 3 months, just pop a slice in the toaster or microwave to revive that fresh-baked taste.
Helpful Notes
- Reduce the cider for more flavor: For a bolder apple punch, simmer your cider for 10–15 minutes before using it in the batter.
- Avoid overmixing: Stir until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense or chewy loaf.
- Don’t skip the topping: That cider soak followed by the spiced sugar crust is what transforms this from simple quick bread to donut-inspired magic.
- Double it up: Want to make two loaves? Double the recipe and bake side-by-side, just check doneness around the 60-minute mark.
- Try it with glaze: Swap the sugar topping for a simple cider glaze (powdered sugar + cider) if you’re looking for something more dessert-like.
Want something equally cozy but chocolatey? You might love my Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies for your next bake.
Conclusion
This Apple Cider Donut Bread is everything you love about fall packed into one cozy loaf. From the rich apple spice aroma to that sugary crust, every bite feels like a warm hug on a crisp day. It’s easy to make, easier to share (if you can resist keeping it all to yourself), and sure to impress anyone lucky enough to grab a slice.
If you made this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Leave a star rating and a comment below to share your baking experience. And for a no-bake treat that’s equally snack-worthy, check out these No-Bake Cottage Cheese Brownie Batter Protein Bites, perfect for a quick energy boost.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use apple juice instead of cider?
Yes! While apple cider has a deeper, more robust flavor, apple juice works well as a substitute. Just make sure it’s unsweetened to avoid making the loaf overly sweet.
How do I make this gluten-free?
Use a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that contains xanthan gum. The texture may vary slightly, but it still bakes up deliciously soft and moist.
Why is my bread too dense or gummy?
This usually happens if the batter was overmixed or the loaf was underbaked. Make sure to mix just until combined and check doneness with a toothpick before removing from the oven.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Absolutely. Slice the cooled bread, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a zip-top freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or microwave for 20–30 seconds.
Apple Cider Donut Bread
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 slices 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Apple Cider Donut Bread is tender, cozy, and full of apple cider flavor, with warm apple pie spice in every bite.
Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
2 teaspoons apple pie spice
½ teaspoon kosher salt
1 ¼ cups apple cider (or apple juice)
1 large egg, room temperature
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
— For the topping —
¼ cup apple cider
½ cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons apple pie spice
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease an 8 ½ x 4 ½-inch loaf pan with nonstick spray or butter and optionally line with parchment.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, apple pie spice, and salt until well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the apple cider, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently fold together until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Transfer the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
6. Bake for 65–75 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
7. Cool the loaf in the pan for 10 minutes, then pour ¼ cup cider over the top while it’s still warm.
8. In a small bowl, mix the sugar and apple pie spice for the topping.
9. Remove the loaf from the pan and coat all sides with the sugar-spice mixture using your hands or parchment to help rotate.
10. Let cool completely before slicing and serving.
Notes
For a richer flavor, reduce your apple cider by half before using.
Avoid overmixing to keep the bread light and tender.
This bread freezes beautifully, wrap tightly and store up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Category: Bread, Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 246
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 25mg