Apple Cider Donut Bread: The Warm Embrace of Fall in Every Slice
Step into the cozy embrace of autumn with a delightful loaf of Apple Cider Donut Bread. Each bite transports you back to crisp, golden afternoons, where the air is filled with the scent of sweet, spiced apples and fresh donuts. If you love the nostalgic flavors of fall, this recipe is worth making for its sheer simplicity and robust flavor. Loaded with fresh grated apples and accentuated by the rich essence of apple cider, this bread combines the comforting familiarity of a traditional apple cider donut with the ease of baking a loaf. Perfect for family gatherings, it’s a kid-friendly treat everyone will adore!
Are You Ready for a Slice of Autumn Happiness?
Imagine this: You walk into your kitchen, and the sweet, intoxicating aroma of baked apple cider surrounds you. Your mouth waters in anticipation as the warm, golden loaf emerges from the oven, each slice promising a gooey and flavorful experience. Will you serve it warm with a swirl of creamy butter, or perhaps pair it with a scoop of ice cream for an extra indulgent touch? The possibilities are endless, and the cravings are irresistible!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Fast and Convenient: With just about an hour of your time, you can have this warm bread ready to enjoy.
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Nostalgic Flavor: Tastes just like the classic apple cider donuts but in a delightful loaf form.
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Kid-Friendly: The sweetness of this bread will make it a hit with the little ones.
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Minimal Ingredients: A simple list comes together to create a memorable taste experience.
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Versatile Serving Options: Serve as breakfast, dessert, or a cozy snack.
Ingredients
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1 cup fresh apple cider: The star ingredient that embodies the essence of fall.
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2 cups all-purpose flour: This provides the structure necessary for baking success.
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1/2 teaspoon baking soda: To help the bread rise to perfection.
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1/2 teaspoon baking powder: An essential in creating that light and airy texture.
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1 1/2 teaspoons apple pie spice: The warm, inviting flavors that make you feel right at home.
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1/2 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors in this wonderfully sweet bread.
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2/3 cup light brown sugar: This brings a deep, caramel sweetness that pairs beautifully with apples.
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1/3 cup granulated sugar: For that extra touch of sweetness.
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1/2 cup canola oil: Ensures the loaf stays moist and tender.
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2 large eggs (room temperature): Adds richness and binds the ingredients together.
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2 teaspoons vanilla: A hint of warmth that complements the spices.
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1 cup grated apples, peeled: Fresh, juicy apples that will melt in your mouth.
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1/2 cup sour cream (room temperature): This provides a moist crumb and a slight tang.
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1/4 cup granulated sugar: For the cinnamon sugar topping.
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1/2 tablespoon cinnamon: To bring out the sweetness and warmth of the bread.
Timing
This Apple Cider Donut Bread straddles the line between fast and indulgent. In just under an hour, you can create something that tastes like it took all day—from preparing the reduced apple cider to letting it cool. It’s perfect for a busy weekday treat that feels and tastes like a leisurely, luxurious dessert. Whether you’re in a rush or simply enjoying a lazy Sunday, this bread brings both speed and comfort.
Step-by-Step
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Prepare the Apple Cider: Begin by pouring the apple cider into a saucepan. Bring it to a boil, then lower the heat and allow it to simmer until it is reduced by half. The cider should become syrupy and fragrant. Remove it from the heat and let it cool.
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Preheat the Oven: While the cider cools, preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease and line an 8×4” loaf pan with parchment paper to make placing your glorious loaf easy.
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Whisk Dry Ingredients: In one bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, apple pie spice, and kosher salt until well combined, creating a fragrant bouquet in your kitchen.
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Incorporate Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, combine the brown sugar, granulated sugar, canola oil, eggs, and vanilla. Whisk until everything is thoroughly integrated. Gently fold in the grated apples and sour cream until mixed.
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Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet, folding them together until just combined. Carefully add in the cooled reduced apple cider, folding until you can no longer see streaks of flour.
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Prepare for Baking: Pour the luscious batter into your prepared loaf pan, ensuring it is spread evenly. In a small bowl, mix together the granular sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle this delightful mixture generously over the top of the loaf.
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Bake: Bake your creation for 45-55 minutes. A toothpick should come out clean with just a few moist crumbs but no wet batter.
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Cool: Let the loaf cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 15 minutes. Use the parchment paper slings to ease it out of the pan, then allow it to cool completely on the rack.
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Storage: Once cool, store the bread lightly covered at room temperature for up to 4 days. To store it longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and freeze it for up to 3 months. Simply unwrap and thaw at room temperature.
Nutritional Information
While indulging in a slice of Apple Cider Donut Bread, it’s good to know that you’re treating yourself to a comforting dessert without going overboard. Each slice typically contains around 230 calories, allowing you to enjoy this delightful treat while still keeping an eye on your daily intake.
Healthier Alternatives
Looking for ways to make this recipe a bit lighter? You can substitute the canola oil with unsweetened applesauce for a lower-fat version. If you’d rather cut back on sugar, consider using a sugar substitute or reducing the amount of brown sugar by half. For a dairy-free option, you can replace the sour cream with a dairy-free yogurt, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delicious bread.
Serving Suggestions
Apple Cider Donut Bread is incredibly versatile. It’s perfect served warm on a chilly morning, topped with a swipe of creamy butter. Or, enjoy a slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert, transforming it into an indulgent treat. Pair it with a cup of hot cider or a pumpkin spice latte for the ultimate fall experience!
Common Mistakes
Even the best bakers can encounter a few hiccups when making Apple Cider Donut Bread. Be wary of overbaking; this can lead to a dry texture that fades the fresh and gooey experience you want. Additionally, be sure to measure flour properly, as too little or too much can affect the consistency. Avoid making a mess by having all your ingredients pre-measured and ready to go!
Storing Tips
To keep your Apple Cider Donut Bread fresh and moist, store it lightly covered at room temperature for up to four days. For longer storage, slice the loaf and wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil. This will make it easy to grab a slice whenever you crave something sweet. Simply thaw at room temperature before enjoying a guilt-free treat.
Tempted to Bake It ASAP?
Now that you’ve been tantalized by the warm aromas and flavors of Apple Cider Donut Bread, what are you waiting for? Your kitchen needs the transformative energy of this delightful loaf. Gather your ingredients, invite the family to join in, and start baking this nostalgic treat that’s sure to create sweet memories and warm hearts. Bake it today, and let the flavors of fall fill your home!
FAQs
1. Can I use store-bought apple cider?
Absolutely! Store-bought apple cider works perfectly, just ensure it’s fresh for the best flavor.
2. How can I tell when it’s done baking?
Insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean with just a few moist crumbs, your bread is ready!
3. Can I freeze the bread?
Yes! Just wrap it tightly and freeze. It can last up to three months in the freezer.
4. What’s the best way to serve Apple Cider Donut Bread?
Serve it warm with butter, or enjoy it as a dessert with ice cream and caramel sauce.
5. Can I add nuts or raisins to the recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to fold in walnuts or raisins for added texture and flavor.
Print
Apple Cider Donut Bread
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful loaf that captures the warmth of fall with the nostalgic flavors of apple cider donuts, perfect for family gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh apple cider
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons apple pie spice
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 2/3 cup light brown sugar
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup canola oil
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla
- 1 cup grated apples, peeled
- 1/2 cup sour cream (room temperature)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for topping)
- 1/2 tablespoon cinnamon (for topping)
Instructions
- Prepare the Apple Cider: Pour the apple cider into a saucepan, boil, then simmer until reduced by half. Let cool.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease and line an 8×4” loaf pan.
- Whisk Dry Ingredients: Combine flour, baking soda, baking powder, apple pie spice, and kosher salt in a bowl.
- Incorporate Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, mix brown sugar, granulated sugar, canola oil, eggs, and vanilla. Fold in grated apples and sour cream.
- Combine Mixtures: Add dry ingredients to wet, fold until just combined. Add cooled apple cider and mix until flour streaks disappear.
- Prepare for Baking: Pour batter into loaf pan. Mix remaining sugar and cinnamon, sprinkle on top.
- Bake: Bake for 45-55 minutes until toothpick comes out clean with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool: Let cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Serve warm with butter or ice cream. Store at room temperature for up to 4 days, freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
