Irresistible Apple Cider Donut Bread Recipe to Try Now
We wait all year for the local apple orchard to open up so we can enjoy their freshly fried apple cider donuts! This year, however, we decided to take matters into our own hands and create a delightful twist on this seasonal favorite with our Apple Cider Donut Bread. It has that same crackly texture on the outside, but with a tender loaf packed full of rich apple flavor. Whether you’re looking for a cozy treat during a chilly afternoon or something special for a brunch gathering, this bread is perfect for any occasion.
Baking this Apple Cider Donut Bread fills your home with the warm and inviting aroma of fall. It’s not just a recipe; it’s an experience that brings friends and family together. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
– Perfect for fall: This bread captures the essence of autumn with its warm spices and sweet apple flavor.
– Easy to make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can master this recipe.
– Great for sharing: Slice it up and serve at gatherings or enjoy it as a cozy treat at home.
– Versatile: Enjoy it as breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack with your favorite beverage.
– Delicious leftovers: This bread stays moist for days, making it perfect for meal prep or snacking later.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this delightful Apple Cider Donut Bread. Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up this tasty treat:
For the Bread
– 2 cups apple cider
– ½ cup butter (room temperature)
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla
– 2 cups flour
– 1 tablespoon apple pie spice
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– ½ teaspoon baking soda
– ½ teaspoon salt
For Topping
– ¼ cup melted butter
– ½ cup sugar
– 1 tablespoon cinnamon
Variations
This Apple Cider Donut Bread is flexible and can easily be tailored to fit your tastes. Here are some fun variation ideas:
– Add nuts: Mix in chopped walnuts or pecans for an added crunch.
– Use different spices: Swap out the apple pie spice for pumpkin pie spice or even a hint of nutmeg for a unique flavor twist.
– Try different sugars: Experiment with coconut sugar or maple sugar instead of brown sugar for a different sweetness profile.
– Incorporate fruits: Toss in some raisins or chopped apples for extra texture and sweetness.
How to Make Apple Cider Donut Bread
Step 1: Reduce the Apple Cider
Start by adding the apple cider to a saucepan over medium heat. Bring it to a boil before reducing it to a simmer. Cook until it’s reduced by half—this should take about 20-30 minutes. Removing excess water concentrates the flavors of the cider, giving your bread that delicious apple taste. Once done, set aside to cool while you preheat your oven.
Step 2: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease or butter a 9×5 loaf pan so that your bread slides out easily once it’s baked.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a mixing bowl, add the room temperature butter and brown sugar. Beat them together using an electric mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step helps incorporate air into your batter, which will make your bread rise beautifully.
Step 4: Add Egg and Vanilla
Next, beat in one large egg along with one teaspoon of vanilla extract until well combined. These ingredients add moisture and enhance the flavor of your bread.
Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients
Now it’s time to mix in all the dry ingredients along with the cooled reduced apple cider. Stir everything together by hand until just combined; be careful not to overmix as this can lead to dense bread.
Step 6: Bake the Bread
Pour your batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake it in your preheated oven for about 50 minutes or until a tester comes out clean from the center. The baking process allows all those lovely flavors to meld together while creating that sought-after crust.
Step 7: Cool Down
Let your bread cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring it onto a cooling rack set over a sheet pan. This will catch any drips from the topping later on.
Step 8: Brush with Butter
Brush the top and sides of your warm bread generously with melted butter. This will help create that tantalizing crispy exterior reminiscent of traditional donuts.
Step 9: Cinnamon Sugar Coating
In a small bowl, combine sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture liberally over the top and sides of your buttery loaf, allowing any excess cinnamon sugar to fall onto the sheet pan below.
Step 10: Final Cooling
Let the bread cool completely for about one hour before slicing into it. Waiting allows all those wonderful flavors to settle in beautifully!
Now you’re ready to enjoy every slice of this delightful Apple Cider Donut Bread!
Pro Tips for Making Apple Cider Donut Bread
Making Apple Cider Donut Bread at home can be a delightful experience, and with these handy tips, you’ll ensure your loaf turns out perfectly every time!
– Reduce the cider properly: Make sure to simmer the apple cider until it’s reduced by half. This concentrates the flavor and ensures your bread is bursting with that apple goodness.
– Use room temperature ingredients: Having your butter and egg at room temperature helps create a smooth batter, leading to a light and fluffy texture.
– Don’t overmix: When combining the dry ingredients with the wet mixture, stir until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf.
– Brush generously with melted butter: This adds extra moisture and richness to the crust, making it irresistible.
– Allow cooling before slicing: Giving the bread time to cool completely enhances its flavor and makes slicing easier.
How to Serve Apple Cider Donut Bread
This Apple Cider Donut Bread is not only delicious but also visually appealing! Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, you can make it special with a few simple touches.
Garnishes
– Drizzle of caramel sauce: A little drizzle of caramel will add a sweet touch that complements the apple flavor wonderfully.
– Whipped cream: A dollop of whipped cream can elevate each slice into a delightful treat, perfect for special occasions.
– Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some finely chopped walnuts or pecans on top for added crunch and flavor.
Side Dishes
– Fresh fruit salad: A light fruit salad can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich donut bread.
– Yogurt parfait: Layering yogurt with granola and berries alongside your bread creates a well-rounded breakfast option.
– Hot apple cider: Continuing the theme, serving warm apple cider on the side will enhance your fall experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Meal prepping can save you time during busy weeks. With this recipe, you can easily store leftovers or even prepare it in advance!
Storing Leftovers
– Store in an airtight container: Keep your leftover bread fresh by placing it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
– Refrigerate for longer storage: If you need to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to 1 week. Just make sure it’s sealed well to prevent drying out.
Freezing
– Wrap tightly: For freezing, wrap individual slices or the whole loaf tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil.
– Label and date: Always label your packages with the date so you know how long they’ve been stored. You can freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating
– Thaw first: If frozen, let the bread thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
– Warm in the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm slices for about 10 minutes for that freshly baked taste.
FAQs
If you have questions about making Apple Cider Donut Bread or its variations, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:
Can I use other spices instead of apple pie spice?
Yes! You can create your own blend using cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice if you prefer. Adjust according to your taste preference.
Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Just be mindful of any additional binding agents required.
Can I add nuts or raisins?
Definitely! Chopped apples, nuts (like walnuts or pecans), or even raisins would make excellent additions. Just fold them into the batter gently before baking.
Final Thoughts
I hope this recipe brings warmth and joy into your kitchen as you enjoy each slice of Apple Cider Donut Bread! It’s perfect for sharing with family and friends during cozy gatherings. Don’t hesitate to try it out—baking is all about having fun and enjoying delicious flavors together. Happy baking!
Apple Cider Donut Bread
Ingredients
Method
- Start by adding the apple cider to a saucepan over medium heat. Bring it to a boil before reducing it to a simmer. Cook until it's reduced by half—this should take about 20-30 minutes. Set aside to cool while you preheat your oven.
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease or butter a 9x5 loaf pan.
- In a mixing bowl, add the room temperature butter and brown sugar. Beat them together until light and fluffy.
- Beat in one large egg along with one teaspoon of vanilla extract until well combined.
- Mix in all the dry ingredients along with the cooled reduced apple cider. Stir until just combined; do not overmix.
- Pour your batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for about 50 minutes or until a tester comes out clean.
- Let your bread cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring it onto a cooling rack.
- Brush the top and sides of your warm bread generously with melted butter.
- In a small bowl, combine sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture over the top and sides of your loaf.
- Let the bread cool completely for about one hour before slicing into it.
