If you’re looking to capture the cozy spirit of autumn in a single bite, this Cider Donut Bread Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine the warm aromas of apple cider mingling with a perfect blend of apple pie spice, creating a loaf that’s moist, tender, and topped with a sugary cinnamon-spiced crust. This bread feels like a comforting hug on a crisp day, offering the nostalgic flavors of cider donuts in an easy-to-make, slice-and-share form. Whether for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, this recipe brings a delightful twist to your baking rotation and fills your kitchen with irresistible scents that everyone will love.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows four items arranged on a colorful cloth with leaf and flower patterns, placed on a white marbled surface. There are three clear glass bowls: the largest bowl in the bottom center holds white flour with a fine, powdery texture. Above it to the left is a medium bowl filled with white sugar, which has a granular texture. To the right of the sugar bowl is a small bowl with brown cinnamon powder, showing a soft and smooth texture. On the far right side of the cloth rests a whole red apple with a shiny skin. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Before you start, it’s amazing to see how just a handful of straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients come together to create this flavorful treat. Each one plays an essential role to enhance flavor, texture, or that perfect golden color we all crave.

All-purpose flour: The base of the bread, giving it structure and a tender crumb.
Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with browning for a lovely crust.
Baking powder: Ensures the bread rises beautifully and stays light.
Apple pie spice: A warm combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves that brings the classic cider donut flavor.
Kosher salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.
Apple cider (plus extra for brushing): Infuses the bread with deep apple flavor and moisture.
Egg: Binds everything together and adds richness.
Unsalted butter: Melted to add tenderness and a subtle buttery note.
Vanilla extract: Adds a sweet, aromatic depth that complements the spices beautifully.
Additional granulated sugar and apple pie spice for topping: Creates the signature cinnamon-sugary crust reminiscent of classic cider donuts.

How to Make Cider Donut Bread Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it reaches the perfect baking temperature. While waiting, spray an 8 ½ x 4 ½-inch loaf pan with nonstick cooking spray to ensure your bread releases easily after baking. A well-prepped pan sets the foundation for that flawless loaf shape.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine all the dry ingredients: flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, apple pie spice, and kosher salt. Whisking them together not only blends the flavors evenly but also helps activate the baking powder for a light texture.

Step 3: Whisk the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the apple cider, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract. This step is crucial because it merges moisture and flavor, making sure each bite of the bread remains tender and aromatic.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients gently and stir until just combined. Take care not to overmix here; a slightly runny batter is perfect. Overworking the batter can produce a dense loaf, and we want that airy, light crumb packed with flavor.

Step 5: Fill the Loaf Pan and Bake

Transfer your batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top gently. Place it in the oven and bake for 65 to 75 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs and the bread’s top has turned a beautiful golden brown shade.

Step 6: Cool and Brush with Apple Cider

Once baked, allow the loaf to rest in the pan for about 10 minutes. While still warm, pour the ¼ cup of apple cider over the top of the bread right in the pan. This step adds an extra layer of moisture and punch of cider flavor to the crust, making it irresistibly soft and fragrant.

Step 7: Add the Signature Sugar and Spice Coating

Mix together ½ cup granulated sugar and 2 teaspoons of apple pie spice in a small bowl. Carefully remove the bread from the pan and place it on parchment paper. Sprinkle this fragrant sugar-spice mixture evenly over the loaf, rotating as needed to coat all sides. This final touch delivers the sweet cinnamon crunch that makes this recipe truly shine like your favorite cider donuts.

Step 8: Let the Bread Cool Completely

Allow your cider-infused, cinnamon-sugary bread to cool fully before slicing. This resting time helps the flavors settle and makes for easier slicing without crumbling, so every slice stays perfect and delicious.

How to Serve Cider Donut Bread Recipe

The image shows a rectangular cake with six rounded, evenly spaced top sections, each covered with a layer of coarse sugar crystals giving a sparkling texture. The cake has a light brown, soft inner crumb with a slightly darker, golden-brown crust on the sides and bottom. It is placed on a white plate with a delicate black floral pattern around the edge, all set on a white marbled surface. In the blurred background, there is a round white plate with more cakes and some yellow fruits. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A simple dusting of powdered sugar sprinkled over slices just before serving adds a snowy sweetness that looks stunning and tastes delightful. You can also dollop a little whipped cream or a smear of cinnamon butter to enhance that warm, cozy feeling with every bite.

Side Dishes

This bread pairs wonderfully with a cup of steaming coffee, chai tea, or even a hot apple cider for that full autumn vibe. For a light brunch option, serve it alongside fresh fruit or a tangy yogurt parfait to balance the sweetness and spices.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your Cider Donut Bread Recipe into a festive centerpiece by slicing it thickly and stacking the pieces on a rustic wooden board. Add sprigs of fresh rosemary or cinnamon sticks for a charming seasonal display. If you’re feeling adventurous, toast the slices lightly and spread with cream cheese and a drizzle of honey for an elegant twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap leftover bread tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container to keep it moist. At room temperature, it stays fresh for up to 2 days, making it easy to enjoy throughout the week without drying out.

Freezing

You can freeze the bread whole or in slices by wrapping it well with plastic wrap and then placing it in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. When you want a treat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature.

Reheating

To bring back that freshly baked warmth, reheat individual slices in the toaster oven or microwave for 15-20 seconds. For a perfectly crisp edged crust, a quick 5-minute warm-up in a 350°F oven works beautifully as well.

FAQs

Can I substitute apple juice for apple cider in this recipe?

Absolutely! Apple juice works well if you don’t have apple cider on hand, though cider tends to have a richer, more complex flavor that really elevates the bread’s taste.

What does apple pie spice contain?

Apple pie spice is typically a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. It’s perfect for adding warm, cozy flavors without needing to measure each spice individually.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, by swapping the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup for cup, you can make this cider donut bread suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.

How do I know when the bread is done baking?

The best test is to insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter, and the top is golden brown, your bread is perfect and ready to come out.

Can I double the recipe to make two loaves?

Definitely! Just double all the ingredients and bake in two loaf pans. You might need to watch the baking time closely, as oven temperatures and pan sizes can slightly affect baking.

Final Thoughts

This Cider Donut Bread Recipe is one of those truly comforting creations that’s surprisingly simple yet packed with layered flavors. It brings that unmistakable charm of cider donuts into a home-baked format that you can slice, share, and savor anytime. I can’t wait for you to try it and fill your kitchen with these delicious fall vibes—once you do, it might just become your new seasonal favorite!