Best Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread Recipe

If you are craving a cozy, comforting treat that embodies all the rich flavors of fall, look no further than the Best Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread. This delightful loaf captures the essence of spiced apple cider in every tender slice, layered with a crispy cinnamon sugar crust that’s simply irresistible. The secret lies in reducing real apple cider to concentrate its sweetness and creating a perfect balance with warm cinnamon and nutmeg spices. Whether you are baking for a family gathering or to brighten an ordinary morning, this bread brings a warm hug in baked form.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Best Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread is thoughtfully chosen to make the loaf moist, flavorful, and perfectly spiced. These simple pantry staples come together to give you a tender crumb with just the right hint of sweetness and spice as well as a golden cinnamon sugar crust that adds texture and extra flavor.

• Apple cider (1 1/2 cups): Reduced down to intensify the sweet, tangy apple flavor.
• Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, melted): Adds richness and moisture for a tender crumb.
• Granulated sugar (1/2 cup): Provides sweetness and helps the bread brown nicely.
• Brown sugar (1/2 cup, packed): Gives a deep, molasses-like flavor for that warming fall vibe.
• Eggs (2 large): Bind the ingredients and help with the structure of the bread.
• Sour cream (1/2 cup): Keeps the bread moist and tender, you can substitute Greek yogurt if preferred.
• All-purpose flour (1 1/2 cups): The backbone of the bread, creating structure.
• Baking powder (1 1/2 tsp): Helps the bread rise for a light texture.
• Baking soda (1/2 tsp): Works with the sour cream to ensure proper rising.
• Ground cinnamon (1 tsp): Essential for that signature spiced warmth.
• Ground nutmeg (1/4 tsp): Adds a subtle, cozy depth of flavor.
• Salt (1/4 tsp): Balances and enhances all the tastes.
• Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Rounds out the flavors with a sweet aroma.
• Cinnamon sugar topping: Granulated sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter create that crunchy, sweet crust you will fall in love with.

How to Make Best Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread

Step 1: Reduce the Apple Cider

Begin by pouring the apple cider into a small saucepan and bringing it to a simmer over medium heat. Patience is key here as you allow the cider to reduce to about half a cup, concentrating the natural sweetness and apple flavor. This reduction is essential for infusing the bread with that unmistakable fresh apple cider taste. Once reduced, set it aside to cool slightly so it won’t cook the eggs later on.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together your melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, sour cream, and vanilla extract. Then, gently stir in the cooled reduced apple cider. This wet mixture combines richness, sweetness, and tang, laying a foundation that makes each slice moist and flavorful.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

Whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt in a separate bowl. These dry ingredients not only provide structure and lift but also infuse the bread with the warm spices that make this recipe so inviting.

Step 4: Combine and Pour

Slowly add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring just until combined to avoid overworking the batter. Overmixing can make the bread tough, so a gentle hand ensures a tender crumb. Once combined, pour the batter into a greased or parchment-lined loaf pan, ready for baking.

Step 5: Bake

Bake the loaf at 350°F (175°C) for 45 to 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The oven’s warmth will turn the batter into a golden, aromatic loaf, with a crust that’s just beginning to crisp. Let the bread cool for about 10 minutes in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 6: Add the Cinnamon Sugar Crust

While the bread is still warm, brush the top and sides with melted butter. In a small bowl, mix together the cinnamon and granulated sugar, then sprinkle generously over the bread’s surface, pressing the mixture slightly to ensure it sticks. This final step creates the delightful crunch and sweetness that elevates this to the Best Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread you’ll be dreaming about.

How to Serve Best Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread

Garnishes

Keep it simple to let the bread shine! A light spread of softened butter or a drizzle of honey complements the spiced flavors beautifully. For extra decadence, a smear of cream cheese or a dusting of powdered sugar can turn it into an elegant treat for guests.

Side Dishes

Apple cider cinnamon bread pairs wonderfully with comforting beverages like hot chai tea, coffee, or a spiced apple cider. It also holds its own alongside breakfast favorites like scrambled eggs or a bowl of warm oatmeal for a wholesome start to your day.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing the bread thickly and toasting it for a crispy exterior with a soft, warm center. Serve with a dollop of maple butter or apple butter for an autumn-themed brunch. Alternatively, transform leftovers into an indulgent bread pudding for a cozy dessert everyone will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After your loaf has completely cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container to maintain freshness. It will stay delicious at room temperature for up to three days, perfect for busy mornings or spontaneous snack cravings.

Freezing

If you want to keep this Best Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread longer, slice it first and freeze the slices individually in a freezer bag. This way, you can thaw exactly what you need without sacrificing freshness. Frozen properly, it will last up to 3 months.

Reheating

To enjoy your bread as if freshly baked, reheat slices in a toaster or oven until warmed through. This helps revive the cinnamon sugar crust’s crispiness and makes each bite taste just as fantastic as the first time you pulled it from the oven.

FAQs

Can I use apple juice instead of apple cider?

Apple cider has a richer, spicier flavor compared to apple juice, so while you can use juice in a pinch, the bread may lack some depth. For the Best Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread experience, I recommend using real apple cider.

Is sour cream necessary, or can I use yogurt?

Sour cream provides moisture and tang, but Greek yogurt is an excellent substitute and will yield a very similar result without compromising texture or flavor.

Can I make this bread gluten-free?

You can substitute a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, but make sure it is a blend that contains xanthan gum or other binders for best texture. The bread may have a slightly different crumb but will still taste fantastic.

How do I know when the bread is fully baked?

A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached. If batter sticks to the toothpick, the bread needs more time baking.

Can I add nuts or dried fruit?

Absolutely! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or dried cranberries make wonderful add-ins and add delightful texture and flavor that complements the apple cider and cinnamon perfectly.

Final Thoughts

Baking the Best Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread is like inviting the magic of fall into your kitchen and home. The fragrant spices, the rich apple cider flavor, and the perfectly crisp cinnamon sugar crust combine for a loaf that will quickly become a beloved staple. Whether served warm for breakfast or as a cozy afternoon snack, this bread is a comforting companion for any chilly day. Give this recipe a try and watch as it becomes a cherished favorite in your baking repertoire.

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