Warm, Cozy, and Delicious: Apple Cider Donut Bread Recipe

As the weather finally takes a turn for the cooler, and we even get a few refreshing drops of rain, my cravings for something cozy and comforting naturally shift to apples and cinnamon. This Apple Cider Donut Bread—though honestly, it’s closer to a cake—is the perfect answer. Whether you're looking for a fun brunch project, something to bake with the kids (or keep all to yourself!), or a delightful after-school treat, this recipe fits the bill. While it may take a bit longer to prepare than your classic banana bread, the extra effort is well worth it, making this a simple, yet flavorful recipe that bakers of any level can enjoy.

Ingredients

For the batter:

• 1 cup apple cider
• 1/2 cup room temperature unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the apple filling:

• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1 large apple peeled, cored, and chopped into small pieces

For the topping:

• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350℉. Line a standard loaf pan with parchment paper or our small oval silicone sling.

2. Boil the apple cider in a sauce pan, stirring frequently, until it has reduced to 1/2 cup of liquid. Set aside to cool.

3. In a small bowl, combine the apples, cinnamon and brown sugar for the apple mixture. Set aside.

4. Mix the butter and brown sugar until it is light and fluffy, approximately 3 minutes with a hand or stand mixer. 

5. Add the vanilla extract and eggs. Mix until well creamed.

6. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. 

7. Alternate adding and mixing in the dry ingredients and apple cider to the butter/sugar mixture. Begin and end with the flour mixture. 

8. Pour half the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Top it with half of the apple mixture. with a knife or spatula, swirl through the batter. Don't overdue this, since it's optimal to have a nice thick layer of fruit in the middle. 

9. Pour the remaining batter on top. Then add the remaining apple mixture. Swirl a couple times and then add the brown sugar and cinnamon topping. 

10. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, until you can stick a knife in and have it come out clean.This is a moist bread, so only a few crumbs should stick to the knife.

11. Remove from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 20 minutes. Remove the bread from the pan and cool completely on a wire rack before cutting. Enjoy!

12. This bread stores really well on a covered cake plate - plus it's pretty! Or it can be stored on the counter in our bread bags, Tupperware, or in a large ziplock bag.

Notes for Best Results:

• Dice the apples into small pieces for even distribution and texture.
• Apple bread can be kept at room temperature for 2-3 days, or frozen and enjoyed later.
• You can use any type of apples for this recipe—choose your favorite variety!
• Ensure the bread cools completely before slicing to maintain its structure.
• For an extra indulgent touch, dust the top with powdered sugar or a light cinnamon-sugar glaze.

I hope you enjoy baking (and eating!) this Apple Cider Donut Bread as much as I did. Whether it's for a cozy brunch or a sweet afternoon snack, this bread is sure to be a hit. Don’t forget to snap a pic of your creation and share it on Instagram—be sure to tag us at @_modkitchn so we can see and celebrate your delicious results. Happy baking!