Dessert

Apple Cider Donut Bread Recipe

Byanna orden October 7, 2026October 7, 2026

Introduction

This Apple Cider Donut Bread is tender and cozy, bursting with warm apple cider flavor and apple pie spice in every bite. It’s a perfect treat for fall mornings or any time you crave something sweet and comforting.

The image shows a close-up of a loaf of bread with one thick slice cut and placed in front. The bread has a rough, golden-brown crust dusted with white sugar, and the inside is soft with a pale beige color and a slightly crumbly texture. The loaf rests on a brown paper surface with a blurred background showing hints of yellow and red drinks. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups (300 g) granulated sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
2 teaspoons apple pie spice (see notes for substitution)
½ teaspoon kosher salt
1 ¼ cups apple cider or apple juice
1 large egg, room temperature
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Topping:
¼ cup apple cider
½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
2 teaspoons apple pie spice

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray an 8 ½ x 4 ½-inch loaf pan with nonstick cooking spray.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, apple pie spice, and salt until well combined.
Step 3: In a separate bowl, whisk the apple cider, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract together until smooth.
Step 4: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently stir until just combined. The batter will be slightly runny—avoid overmixing to keep it tender.
Step 5: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
Step 6: Bake for 65 to 75 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs and the top is golden brown.
Step 7: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
Step 8: While the bread is still warm, pour ¼ cup apple cider evenly over the loaf in the pan to soak in.
Step 9: In a small bowl, mix the granulated sugar and 2 teaspoons apple pie spice for the topping.
Step 10: Carefully remove the bread from the pan and place it on parchment paper. Sprinkle the sugar-spice mixture evenly over the loaf, rotating it to coat all sides.
Step 11: Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing and serving.

Tips & Variations

If you don’t have apple pie spice, substitute with ½ teaspoon cinnamon and ¼ teaspoon allspice for a similar warm flavor.
For extra moist bread, try adding ½ cup of finely chopped apples or nuts to the batter.
Serve toasted with butter or cream cheese for a delicious breakfast treat.

Storage

Store the bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the bread wrapped well for up to 2 months. Reheat slices in the microwave for about 20 seconds or toast them until warm.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up of a loaf of bread with a rough, golden-brown crust covered lightly with sugar, giving it a sparkly look. The inside of the bread is soft and light beige with a porous, airy texture. One thick slice is cut from the loaf and placed in front, showing the crumb clearly. The bread sits on a white marbled surface. In the background, there is a blurry glass with a yellow drink and some red fruits. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use apple juice instead of apple cider?

Yes, apple juice works as a substitute and will still give a lovely apple flavor, though apple cider adds a bit more depth and a slight tang.

What is apple pie spice?

Apple pie spice is a blend of warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and cloves. It can be purchased pre-mixed or made at home by combining these spices.