This Apple Cider Donut Bread recipe is the perfect combination of cinnamon spice and warm apple cider. It will not only taste delicious but smell amazing too. The cinnamon sugar coating on the top provides a nice crunch to contrast the soft and fluffy loaf.

Slices of Apple Cider Donut Bread on a platter.

From the texture to the flavors in this Apple Cider Donut Bread, it is absolute perfection.

The cinnamon and nutmeg flavors are strong but not overpowering. It pairs perfectly with the apple cider to make the ideal bite every time.

Now, let’s talk about the main ingredients you’ll need to make this loaf.

Main Ingredients

These are most of the ingredients you will need to make this recipe. However, the full list and their measurements are in the recipe card below.

Apple Cider Donut Ingredients measured out in bowls.

How do I reduce the apple cider?

Add your apple cider into a small saucepan. Turn the heat up to medium and continuously stir as the cider boils.

You want it to reduce to a 1/2 cup, this took about 10 minutes for my stovetop.

This is an important step because it strengthens the apple flavor. However, if you want to skip this step then you can measure out a 1/2 cup of apple cider!

Step by Step Process to Make Apple Cider Donut Bread

The full-detailed instructions are written out in the recipe card below. Use these images to help guide you as needed when following the directions.

Combine the butter and dark brown sugar until light and fluffy. Then add in the eggs and vanilla extract to the mixing bowl.
Combine the butter and dark brown sugar.
Once the wet ingredients are combined, fold in the dry ingredients.
Once the wet ingredients are combined, fold in the dry ingredients.
Add the apple cider into the batter.
Alternate adding the flour and apple cider into the batter.
Transfer the batter to a loaf pan.
Transfer 2/3 of the batter to a loaf pan
Add the cinnamon swirl layer on top of the batter.
Add the cinnamon swirl layer on top of the batter.
Top with the remaining batter
Top with the remaining batter
Add the cinnamon sugar mixture on top.
Add the cinnamon sugar mixture on top
Baked Apple Cider Bread in the pan.
Bake the loaf
Side view of the apple cider donut bread to show the layers.
Let cool completely
Slicing the apple cider bread on a platter.
Slice
Slicing the apple cider bread on a platter.
Serve
A broke slice of apple donut bread on a platter.
Enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use gluten free flour?

Yes! You can substitute and use all purpose gluten free flour at a 1:1 ratio.

Do I have to reduce the apple cider?

You don’t have to, but it’s highly recommended. You can use 1/2 cup of apple cider without reducing it. However, reducing the apple cider creates a stronger apple flavor in the bread.

What’s the difference between apple cider and apple juice?

Apple juice is filtered, pasteurized, and typically sweetened. It has a clear, stable, and sweet flavor, while apple cider is unfiltered and unpasteurized with a cloudy, tangy, and robust taste.

Can I add mix-ins?

You could! Feel free to experiment by adding in your favorite mix-ins or even small chunks of apples. However, any additions may impact the baking time and final result.

How do I know the Apple Cider Donut Bread is done baking?

You know the bread is done baking when you stick a toothpick in the center and it comes out clean. The outer edges and top of the loaf should be golden and crisp.

What is the best way to store any leftovers?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or in the freezer for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe bag or container.

Slices of apple cider bread layered on each other on a platter.
Slice of apple cider donut bread showing the layers.
4.75 stars (4 ratings)

Apple Cider Donut Bread

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 16 servings
This Apple Cider Donut Bread recipe is the perfect combination of cinnamon spice and warm apple cider. It will not only taste delicious but smell amazing too. The cinnamon sugar coating on the top provides a nice crunch to contrast the soft and fluffy loaf.
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Ingredients
 

Apple Cider Bread

  • 2 cups All Purpose Flour, or Gluten Free All Purpose Flour
  • 1 1/2 tsp Baking Powder
  • 1/2 tsp Baking Soda
  • 1 1/2 tsp Cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp Nutmeg
  • 1/2 cup Salted Butter, softened
  • 2 large Eggs
  • 1 cup Dark Brown Sugar, packed
  • 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
  • 1 cup Apple Cider

Cinnamon Swirl Filling

  • 1/3 cup Dark Brown Sugar, packed
  • 1 tsp Cinnamon

Cinnamon Sugar Topping

  • 1/3 cup Granulated Sugar, for topping
  • 1 tbsp Cinnamon, for topping

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F and line a loaf pan with parchment paper
  • Add the apple cider to a small saucepan and heat over medium heat. You will be stirring constantly until it reduces to about 1/2 cup
  • Once the apple cider has reduced, remove from heat and set aside to cool
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the butter and dark brown sugar until light and fluffy (about 2 minutes)
  • Add in the eggs and vanilla extract
  • Mix until fully combined
  • Alternate adding in 1/3 of the flour and the reduced apple cider
  • Add in the baking soda, baking powder and spices with the last round of flour
  • Mix until just combined
  • Combine the dark brown sugar and cinnamon to make the cinnamon swirl layer
  • Add about 2/3 of the Apple Cider Donut Bread batter into the lined loaf pan
  • Add the brown sugar and cinnamon layer on top of the batter
  • Pour the remaining batter on top and smooth into an even layer
  • Now let's make the cinnamon sugar topping. Combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon in a bowl
  • Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar in an even layer over the batter until it fully covers the batter so that none is showing
  • Put into the oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. You will know it's done when a toothpick comes out of the center clean
  • Let cool completely for 1-2 hours before slicing
  • Enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 212kcal, Carbohydrates: 37g, Protein: 3g, Fat: 7g, Saturated Fat: 4g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.4g, Monounsaturated Fat: 2g, Trans Fat: 0.2g, Cholesterol: 39mg, Sodium: 135mg, Potassium: 71mg, Fiber: 1g, Sugar: 23g, Vitamin A: 214IU, Vitamin C: 0.2mg, Calcium: 54mg, Iron: 1mg
Author: Jessica Selensky
Course: Breakfast, brunch, Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Keywords: baking, banana bread, breakfast and brunch, brunch recipes, Gluten free apple bread, gluten free recipes, gluten-free baking, sweet breakfast

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