Introduction

As the crisp air of fall settles in, the scent of apple cider and spices wafts through the kitchen, inviting home cooks to try something special. This Easy Apple Cider Donut Bread embraces the flavors of traditional donuts while being more accessible as a loaf. It’s moist, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying.

Perfect for breakfast or a cozy afternoon snack, this bread features the essence of apple cider and is sprinkled with a warm cinnamon sugar topping. The best part? It’s simple to whip up, making it a fantastic recipe for bakers, whether you’re seasoned or just beginning. So grab your favorite apples and let’s get baking!

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
  All-purpose flour provides the structure and texture for the bread, creating a balance that absorbs the apple cider without becoming too dense.
• 1 cup apple cider
  The star ingredient, apple cider, infuses the bread with a rich, fruity flavor and moisture that helps keep the loaf tender.
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  Sugar sweetens the bread, enhancing the flavors of apples and spices while contributing to a delightful crust.
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
  Brown sugar adds depth with its molasses notes, providing a moist texture and rich flavor profile.
• 2 large eggs
  Eggs act as a binding agent, helping the bread rise and giving it a fluffy, tender crumb.
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  Oil keeps the bread moist and flavorful, creating a tender crumb that melts in your mouth.
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
  Baking powder is a leavening agent that helps the bread rise, ensuring it’s light and airy.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  Cinnamon adds warmth and spice, contributing to the comforting flavor that makes this recipe feel like a fall classic.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
  Salt enhances all the flavors in the bread, balancing sweetness and ensuring a well-rounded taste.
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  Nutmeg adds a subtle warmth, complementing the apples and cinnamon beautifully for that classic autumn flavor.

Directions & Preparation

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Preheating the oven ensures that your bread will cook evenly, helping to achieve the right texture. An adequately heated oven sets the initial bake, giving the bread a great rise.

Step 2: Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.

Greasing and flouring the pan prevents the bread from sticking, ensuring that it comes out cleanly and maintains its shape. This step is crucial for easy removal after baking.

Step 3: In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.

Whisking the dry ingredients together allows for even distribution of sugar, spices, and leavening agents, which is vital in achieving consistent flavor and texture throughout the bread.

Step 4: In a separate bowl, combine the wet ingredients: apple cider, eggs, and vegetable oil.

Mixing wet ingredients together ensures a uniform blend before they’re combined with the dry ingredients. This prevents clumping and ensures that every slice of bread has a delicious, moist texture.

Step 5: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.

Mixing until just combined helps to avoid overworking the batter, which can lead to a dense loaf. You want to see a few lumps; this maintains the bread’s cake-like quality.

Step 6: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.

Getting the batter into the pan quickly allows you to bake it promptly, optimizing the freshness of the apple cider flavor. Spread it evenly for uniform baking.

Step 7: Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Baking for the right amount of time is crucial for the bread to set correctly. The toothpick test is the best indication that it's done; a few moist crumbs are okay, but it shouldn’t be wet.

Step 8: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.

Cooling in the pan allows the bread to firm up slightly, which helps it retain its shape as you turn it out. However, it’s essential to transfer it soon to prevent the bottom from becoming soggy.

Step 9: While the bread cools, prepare the cinnamon sugar topping by mixing granulated sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl.

This topping adds a sweet, crunchy layer to the bread. Preparing it while the bread cools ensures that you can quickly apply it while the loaf is still warm, allowing it to stick perfectly.

Step 10: Once the bread has cooled slightly, brush the top with melted butter and sprinkle generously with the cinnamon sugar mixture.

Brushing with butter not only enhances flavor but also helps the sugar stick, creating a beautiful, sweet crust. Allowing the topping to set while the bread cools fully yields the best texture.

Creating Rich Flavor with Apple Cider

Apple cider is not just an ingredient; it’s the heart of this recipe. Using fresh, high-quality apple cider can make a notable difference in flavor. The natural sugars and acidity in the cider help to enhance the sweetness of the bread while balancing the spices, leading to a rich depth that brings warmth and comfort with every bite.

The Sweet Crunch of Cinnamon Sugar

Cinnamon sugar is the finishing touch that elevates this bread from good to extraordinary. The blend of cinnamon and sugar creates a delightful contrast to the soft, moist interior. As it caramelizes slightly on top of the warm loaf, it forms a sweet crunch that adds an irresistible texture, making each slice an experience.

Tips for Perfecting Your Bread Texture

Achieving the perfect texture in apple cider donut bread relies heavily on proper mixing. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf, so aim for just combined ingredients. Additionally, allowing the bread to cool properly ensures it firms up, leading to a tender yet structured crumb that holds its shape beautifully, making it ideal for toasting or enjoying as is.

FAQs

What if my bread turns out too dense?

If your bread is too dense, it may be due to overmixing the batter or not using fresh leavening agents. To avoid this, mix only until combined and ensure your baking powder is still active.

Can I reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe?

You can reduce the sugar slightly, but be aware that it may alter the sweetness and moisture. If you prefer less sweetness, consider adding a bit more apple cider to balance it.

What if my apple cider donut bread is too dry?

A dry loaf can result from overbaking or not having enough liquid. To remedy this, make sure to check for doneness early, and consider adding an extra tablespoon of oil or cider next time.

Is it possible to add nuts or raisins to the batter?

Yes, incorporating about 1/2 cup of chopped nuts or raisins can add texture and flavor. Just be sure to fold them in gently to avoid overmixing.

What if I want a stronger spice flavor?

You can increase the cinnamon and nutmeg slightly for a bolder spice profile. Start with an additional 1/4 teaspoon of each to see how you like it.

Can I use less butter for the topping?

You can reduce the amount of butter for the topping, but it helps the sugar stick and adds flavor. If you want to lessen the calories, consider using a light spray of butter instead.

Conclusion

This Easy Apple Cider Donut Bread is a delightful way to celebrate the flavors of fall. With its perfect balance of sweetness and spice, it can quickly become a family favorite. Serve it alongside a warm cup of tea or coffee, and enjoy the joy of home baking.

As you experiment with this recipe, feel free to customize it with your favorite mix-ins or spices. Whether shared with family or enjoyed solo, this bread will remind you of crisp autumn days and the warmth of home.

Recipe Card

Notes

Additional serving suggestions: pair with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables for balance.

For make-ahead, prep components separately and assemble just before heating to preserve texture.

Taste and adjust with acid (lemon/vinegar) and salt right at the end to wake up flavors.