Name: Apple Cider Bread Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 52 min
Total time: 1 h 12 min
Yield: 12
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups apple cider; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/3 cup granulated sugar; 1/3 cup packed brown sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 large egg; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon table salt; 4 teaspoons apple pie spice; 1 1/4 cup shredded apples (1 large apple); 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; 5 tablespoons cinnamon sugar, divided

Get ready to swoon over this Apple Cider Bread Recipe—a cozy, golden loaf that tastes just like your favorite fall apple cider donut, but even better fresh from your own oven. With a tender crumb, bursts of real apple, a deep apple cider flavor, and that irresistible crunchy cinnamon sugar coating, this bread invites you to curl up and enjoy a warm treat any time of year.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this recipe is how simple, familiar ingredients come together to make something so memorable. Each element offers something special—from the depth of apple cider to the aromatic apple pie spices—all layering incredible taste, tender texture, and a gorgeous color throughout the bread.

Apple cider: Reduced to intensify its sweet-tart flavor, it creates the bread’s apple-forward signature taste.
Unsalted butter: Adds richness, moisture, and a lovely crumb; use fresh for best texture.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the loaf without overpowering the apple flavor.
Packed brown sugar: Lends a caramel note and adds extra moisture to every slice.
Vanilla extract: Rounds out all of those warm, spiced flavors beautifully.
Large egg: Binds the ingredients together and gives the bread structure.
All purpose flour: The reliable base that supports all that apple goodness.
Baking powder & baking soda: These two ensure a light rise and the perfect crumb.
Table salt: Essential for balance; don’t skip, as it sharpens the flavors.
Apple pie spice: Melds cinnamon, nutmeg, and more for a true autumnal aroma in every bite.
Shredded apples: A full, fresh apple keeps the loaf super moist and extra flavorful.
Melted unsalted butter (for coating): Helps that cinnamon sugar stick and adds a final touch of indulgence.
Cinnamon sugar: The classic, crave-worthy topping for crunch and sweetness.

How to Make Apple Cider Bread Recipe

Step 1: Reduce the Apple Cider

Start by pouring your apple cider into a saucepan and bringing it to a low boil. Let it simmer gently until it reduces to half its original volume—this takes a bit of patience but intensifies the apple flavor, making your Apple Cider Bread Recipe shine with every bite. Allow it to cool before using.

Step 2: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. Grab a 9×5 bread pan, spritz it with nonstick spray, and sprinkle a generous tablespoon of cinnamon sugar over the base. This step ensures a sweet, crunchy coating on that first bite right out of the pan.

Step 3: Make the Batter

Beat the softened butter with both the granulated and brown sugars until the mixture is fluffy and pale—this creates air, giving your Apple Cider Bread Recipe its heavenly cake-like texture. Mix in the egg, vanilla extract, and the juicy shredded apples, letting everything get cozy together.

Step 4: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients

Add the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, apple pie spice, and one cup of that beautifully reduced apple cider to the wet ingredients. Gently mix just until combined—overmixing is the enemy of tender bread! The batter will be thick, speckled with apples, and scented like a fall dream.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Pour the batter into your prepared bread pan and smooth out the top. Slide into the preheated oven and bake for 50 to 52 minutes, or until a tester comes out with just a few moist crumbs sticking. The kitchen will already be swirling with spiced apple aroma by now!

Step 6: Cool and Add Cinnamon Sugar Coating

Let the bread cool in its pan for at least 15 minutes—this helps it firm up for easy removal. Flip out onto a rack, let it cool further for about an hour, then brush the top with melted butter and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar. Don’t forget the sides! Let the coating set, then slice and enjoy your Apple Cider Bread Recipe masterpiece.

How to Serve Apple Cider Bread Recipe

Garnishes

Give each slice a dusting of extra cinnamon sugar or add a dollop of whipped cream for an instant dessert flair. For a more elegant touch, a drizzle of honey or a light glaze of confectioners’ sugar and milk takes this bread to company-worthy status.

Side Dishes

Pair your Apple Cider Bread Recipe with a mug of hot spiced tea, a caramel latte, or even vanilla ice cream for a decadent afternoon treat. Fresh fruit or a scoop of Greek yogurt on the side can also brighten up your breakfast plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing the cooled bread thickly and toasting it lightly—top with cream cheese, nut butter, or apple butter for extra flavor. You can even cut the loaf into cubes for a gorgeous fall bread pudding or a cozy weekend French toast casserole.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once completely cooled and coated, store leftover Apple Cider Bread Recipe slices in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. The flavor deepens, and the crumb stays moist, making it ideal for quick snacks or breakfast treats.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap the loaf (or individual slices) tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and place in a freezer-safe bag. This bread freezes beautifully for up to two months—just be sure to label and date your package for easy grab-and-go treats.

Reheating

To revive that just-baked warmth, reheat slices in the oven at 325 degrees for about 8-10 minutes, or pop in the toaster for a minute or two. If you’re feeling decadent, add a fresh pat of butter right before serving.

FAQs

Can I use apple juice instead of apple cider?

Apple cider gives the bread its signature robust, spiced flavor. While you can substitute apple juice in a pinch, the flavor will be milder and less complex, so it’s worth seeking out cider for the ultimate Apple Cider Bread Recipe experience.

What kind of apples work best for shredding?

Choose a crisp, tart-sweet apple like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Pink Lady. These varieties hold their texture and add a nice contrast to the sweetness already in the Apple Cider Bread Recipe.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Swap the all purpose flour for your favorite 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. The texture might be a bit different, but the wonderful spiced apple warmth remains.

How do I know when the bread is done baking?

Insert a skewer or knife into the center; if it comes out with just a few crumbs (not wet batter), it’s ready. Avoid overbaking, as that can lead to dryness—your Apple Cider Bread Recipe should be moist and tender.

Is it okay to double the recipe?

Yes! Double all ingredients and use two loaf pans. You may need to extend baking time slightly, so check both loaves for doneness before removing from the oven.

Final Thoughts

You don’t have to wait for fall to indulge in a comforting, homemade Apple Cider Bread Recipe! Whether you serve it at breakfast, as a mid-day treat, or as a show-stopping dessert, I promise every slice will bring a smile. Give it a try—and be prepared to fall in love with your new favorite quick bread!

Apple Cider Bread Recipe