Name: Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
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; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 2 tablespoons melted butter (for brushing)

Jump to Recipe

If you’re searching for a comforting, warmly spiced treat that fills your kitchen with the aroma of autumn, look no further than this Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread Recipe. It’s a perfect harmony of tender crumb, subtle apple cider sweetness, and gentle cinnamon spice wrapped up in a golden loaf. Whether it’s a cozy weekend breakfast or an afternoon snack with tea, this bread offers that perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it an instant favorite to share with family and friends.

A rectangular cake sliced into eight pieces is shown on a white plate with a green leafy pattern. The cake has a golden brown crust with a sugar coating on top, giving it a slightly sparkling texture. The inside of the cake is light yellow and looks soft and moist. The background is blurred but shows a white plate with a yellow fruit on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple ingredients come together to create a loaf that’s bursting with flavor and just the right hint of spice. Each component plays a vital role, whether adding moisture, warmth, or that golden color that makes apple cider cinnamon bread so inviting.

Apple cider: Reduced down to intensify the flavor and impart natural sweetness.
Unsalted butter, melted: Provides moisture and richness without overpowering the spices.
Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with browning.
Brown sugar, packed: Brings a deep, caramel-like sweetness that complements the apple cider.
Large eggs: Bind the ingredients while adding a subtle fluffiness.
Sour cream (or Greek yogurt): Keeps the bread tender and moist for days.
All-purpose flour: The foundation that gives the bread structure.
Baking powder: Adds lift and lightness to the loaf.
Baking soda: Works with the sour cream to create a perfect rise.
Ground cinnamon: The star spice that brings warmth and depth.
Ground nutmeg: A hint of spice that rounds out the cinnamon beautifully.
Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavors.
Vanilla extract: Adds a fragrant sweetness that lingers.
Granulated sugar (for topping): Mixed with cinnamon to create a delightful crunchy topping.
Melted butter (for brushing): Ensures the cinnamon sugar sticks and adds richness.

How to Make Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread Recipe

Step 1: Reduce the Apple Cider

Start by pouring 1 1/2 cups of apple cider into a saucepan and simmer it gently over medium heat until it reduces down to about 1/2 cup. This step is crucial because it concentrates the apple flavor and natural sweetness, giving the bread its signature taste without adding too much liquid to the batter. Allow it to cool before mixing it in.

Step 2: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Preparing the pan ahead ensures your bread will bake evenly and release easily once done.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, both sugars, eggs, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), vanilla extract, and the cooled reduced apple cider. This mixture forms the flavorful, moist base of the bread.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Combining the dry ingredients separately helps distribute the leavening agents and spices evenly throughout the batter.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix here because you want to avoid a tough crumb. A few small lumps are perfectly fine and will ensure your loaf stays tender.

Step 6: Bake the Bread

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly. Bake on the center rack for 45 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. This baking time allows the bread to develop a beautiful golden crust and cook through thoroughly.

Step 7: Add the Cinnamon Sugar Topping

Once out of the oven, let the loaf cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. While still warm, brush the top with melted butter, then sprinkle with a cinnamon sugar mix made from 1/4 cup granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon. Press lightly so the topping adheres well, creating a subtle crunchy finish that perfectly complements the soft bread.

How to Serve Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread Recipe

The image shows a loaf cake cut into eight thick slices arranged closely on a white plate with black floral patterns. The cake has a golden-brown top sprinkled with coarse sugar crystals that sparkle. The sides are darker brown, showing a well-baked crust, while the inside is soft and light tan. The plate is placed on a wooden table with a blurred background showing some yellow fruits and another white plate with bread or rolls. The overall scene has warm tones and soft lighting. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A simple dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey can elevate every slice. For special occasions, a smear of cream cheese or a pat of cinnamon butter adds an indulgent touch that pairs wonderfully with the bread’s warm spices.

Side Dishes

This bread shines alongside a hot mug of chai tea or spiced coffee. It also pairs beautifully with a fresh fruit salad or a bowl of warm apple compote to enhance the apple cider notes in every bite.

Creative Ways to Present

Try toasting slices lightly and using them as the base for a decadent French toast breakfast. Or, slice it thinly and serve as part of a brunch spread with cheeses, nuts, and spiced jams. The sublime apple and cinnamon flavors make it incredibly versatile!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container at room temperature. The bread should stay fresh for up to 3 days, maintaining its soft texture and moistness without drying out.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy this delicious Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread Recipe over a longer period, freezing is your friend. Wrap the loaf or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. You can freeze it for up to 2 months without sacrificing flavor.

Reheating

When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm slices gently in a toaster or oven. Toasting lightly revives that tender crumb and crispy cinnamon sugar top, making each bite feel freshly baked.

FAQs

Can I use apple juice instead of apple cider?

While apple juice is lighter and less robust in flavor, you can substitute it, but be sure to reduce it down to concentrate the sweetness, just like with the cider, to get the best flavor.

What’s the best way to reduce apple cider?

Simmer it gently over medium heat without boiling rapidly to avoid burning or caramelizing too much. Stir occasionally until reduced to half the original volume for maximum flavor.

Can this recipe be made gluten-free?

Yes! Use a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend that already contains xanthan gum. The texture may vary slightly, but the taste will still be wonderful.

Is sour cream necessary, or can I only use Greek yogurt?

Both work wonderfully to keep the bread moist and tender. Greek yogurt is a great substitute if you want a tangier flavor or have no sour cream on hand.

How long does the cinnamon sugar topping stay crisp?

The topping is crispiest right after baking. If stored in an airtight container, it may soften slightly but still adds great flavor. Toasting slices before serving refreshes the crunch.

Final Thoughts

This Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread Recipe is such a delight to make and even more delightful to share. With its warm spices and tender crumb, it’s a little slice of cozy happiness perfect for any time you crave a comforting homemade treat. Give it a try, and I promise it will quickly become one of your go-to favorites to enjoy and gift throughout the seasons.