Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread: A Cozy Fall Loaf You’ll Love to Bake Recipe
Introduction
Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread is a warm, fragrant loaf perfect for cozy fall mornings or afternoon tea. This moist bread combines the sweet tang of reduced apple cider with comforting spices for a delightful treat you’ll love to bake again and again.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups apple cider (for reducing)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cinnamon Sugar Topping:
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (for brushing)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a saucepan over medium heat, simmer the apple cider until it reduces to about 1/2 cup. Remove from heat and let it cool completely.
- Step 2: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Step 3: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, sour cream, vanilla extract, and the cooled reduced apple cider until smooth.
- Step 4: In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt.
- Step 5: Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix to keep the bread tender.
- Step 6: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 45–50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Step 7: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool slightly.
- Step 8: While the bread is still warm, brush the top generously with the melted butter. Mix the cinnamon and sugar for the topping, then sprinkle it evenly over the buttered surface. Press lightly so it sets.
Tips & Variations
- Use Greek yogurt as a substitute for sour cream to add a slight tang and increase protein.
- For extra texture, add 1/2 cup chopped nuts or raisins to the batter before baking.
- Let the apple cider reduce slowly to intensify the flavor without burning it.
- Serve warm with butter or cream cheese for an indulgent treat.
Storage
Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, warm slices in a toaster oven or microwave until soft and fragrant.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use apple juice instead of apple cider?
Apple juice is milder and sweeter than apple cider, so it can be used in a pinch, but the flavor won’t be as rich. Reducing juice similarly can help concentrate the flavor.
What if I don’t have sour cream?
You can substitute sour cream with an equal amount of Greek yogurt or buttermilk to maintain moisture and tenderness in the bread.
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Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread: A Cozy Fall Loaf You’ll Love to Bake Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (about 8 slices) 1x
Description
This Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread is a cozy, moist loaf perfect for fall and winter baking. Infused with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg and enriched with reduced apple cider, this bread offers a sweet, aromatic flavor and tender crumb. Topped with a cinnamon sugar crust, it’s an inviting treat ideal for breakfast, afternoon tea, or a comforting snack.
Ingredients
For the Bread
- 1 1/2 cups apple cider (for reducing)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cinnamon Sugar Topping
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (for brushing)
Instructions
- Reduce the Apple Cider: In a saucepan over medium heat, simmer the apple cider until it reduces to about 1/2 cup. This concentrates the flavor. Remove from heat and let it cool completely before use.
- Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), vanilla extract, and the cooled reduced apple cider until smooth and well combined.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift or whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt to ensure even distribution.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.
- Bake the Bread: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the Bread: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer it onto a wire rack to cool further.
- Apply the Cinnamon Sugar Topping: While the bread is still warm, brush the top evenly with melted butter. Mix the granulated sugar and cinnamon for the topping, then sprinkle it over the buttered surface. Press lightly to set the topping onto the bread.
Notes
- Reducing the apple cider intensifies its flavor and prevents excess moisture in the bread.
- You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a slight tang and moist crumb.
- Make sure not to overmix the batter to keep the bread soft and tender.
- The cinnamon sugar topping adds a delightful crunch and extra flavor – don’t skip it!
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: apple cider bread, cinnamon bread, fall recipe, cozy bread, spiced loaf, homemade bread, autumn baking
