Apple Cider Donut Bread

This apple cider donut bread is a cozy treat that captures the essence of fall in every bite. Rich with warm spices and the sweet tang of apple cider, it makes a wonderful centerpiece for autumn mornings or afternoon tea.

I first baked this bread while craving the nostalgic flavors of apple cider donuts at home. It quickly became a seasonal favorite that fills the kitchen with the best autumn aromas.

Ingredients List

• All-purpose flour: for structure choose fresh flour for the best rise and texture
• Granulated sugar: adds sweetness and caramel notes picking pure white sugar ensures even sweetness
• Baking powder: leavens the bread giving it lightness be sure it’s fresh for best results
• Apple pie spice: brings the cozy flavor bouquet look for blends with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves
• Kosher salt: enhances the other flavors pick coarse kosher salt for balanced seasoning
• Apple cider: adds natural apple flavor and moisture select fresh cider without preservatives
• Large egg: binds the ingredients use room temperature for better mixing
• Unsalted butter: adds richness and a tender crumb melt gently to avoid hot spots
• Vanilla extract: deepens the sweet aroma choose pure vanilla extract for best flavor
• Extra apple cider for the glaze: brings extra moistness
• Granulated sugar and apple pie spice for the glaze: coat the bread with extra sweetness and spice

Cooking Steps

Prepare The Oven and Pan:

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Spray or grease an 8 ½ by 4 ½ inch loaf pan thoroughly to prevent sticking.

Combine Dry Ingredients:

In a large bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, baking powder, apple pie spice, and salt until evenly distributed.

Whisk Wet Ingredients:

In a separate bowl, beat the apple cider, egg, melted butter, and vanilla until fully combined and smooth.

Mix Batter Gently:

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir just until the batter is combined and slightly runny. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.

Fill The Loaf Pan:

Transfer the batter carefully into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it out for even baking.

Bake The Bread:

Place the pan in the oven and bake for 65 to 75 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center& it should come out with a few crumbs.

Cool and Glaze The Bread:

Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. While still warm, pour the reserved ¼ cup apple cider over it to soak in moisture.

Prepare The Spice Sugar Coating:

Combine the ½ cup sugar and 2 teaspoons apple pie spice in a bowl.

Apply The Coating:

Remove the loaf from the pan and set it on parchment paper. Sprinkle the sugar-spice mixture evenly all around the bread, rotating it to cover every side.

Final Cooling:

Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing to let the flavors set and the glaze firm up.

My favorite part is the sugar and spice coating that adds a little crispness and extra burst of fall aroma. Baking this bread reminds me of cozy afternoons with family, wrapped in soft sweaters and warm drinks.

Best Storage Practices

Store the bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container to keep moisture locked in. It stays fresh at room temperature for up to three days and can be frozen for a month. When freezing, slice first for easy defrosting.

Ingredient Swaps

Try using brown sugar instead of granulated sugar for a deeper caramel flavor. You can swap the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour for a nuttier taste and added nutrition but expect a denser crumb. For a dairy-free version, replace butter with coconut oil.

Serving Pairings

Serve slices with a pat of butter or cream cheese for a creamy contrast. Enjoy alongside a hot cup of chai or coffee for a warming breakfast. It also pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dessert twist.

Seasonal Upgrades

Add chopped toasted pecans to the batter to introduce crunch and nutty warmth

Baking apple cider donut bread is one of my favorite ways to welcome the cooler months. It fills the house with a warm, comforting scent that feels like a gentle hug. Sharing it fresh from the oven with loved ones always brings the best kind of joy.

Frequently Asked Cooking Questions

→ What kind of apple cider works best?

Use fresh, unfiltered apple cider for the richest flavor, but any unsweetened type will enhance the bread nicely.

→ Can I substitute apple pie spice?

A blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice makes a great alternative if apple pie spice isn't available.

→ How do I know when the bread is done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter, it's ready.

→ Why is it important not to overmix the batter?

Overmixing develops gluten, making the bread tough and dense rather than tender and soft.

→ How should the bread be stored after baking?

Once cooled, keep the bread wrapped tightly at room temperature for up to two days or freeze slices for longer storage.

→ Can this bread be made vegan?

Substitute the egg with a flax or chia egg and use a plant-based butter alternative for a vegan version.