Name: Apple Cider Donut Bread
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 65 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1.5 cups granulated sugar; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 2 teaspoons apple pie spice; 0.5 teaspoon kosher salt; 1.25 cups apple cider (or apple juice); 1 large egg (room temperature); 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted); 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 0.25 cups apple cider; 0.5 cups granulated sugar; 2 teaspoons apple pie spice

Introduction to Apple Cider Donut Bread

Why Apple Cider Donut Bread is a Must-Try

If you’re looking to elevate your baking game this fall, apple cider donut bread is the perfect recipe to add to your repertoire. Imagine a soft, sweet bread infused with the rich flavors of apple cider and warm spices, reminiscent of those beloved apple cider donuts you find at harvest festivals. It’s the ultimate comfort food, perfect for brunch or even as an afternoon snack, paired with your favorite coffee or tea.

What sets this bread apart is its moist texture and delightful aroma that fills your kitchen as it bakes—your guests will be eager to know the secret ingredient! Not only does it satisfy your sweet tooth, but each slice also offers a lovely hint of nostalgia, transporting you back to crisp autumn days filled with apple picking and cozy gatherings.

The beauty of apple cider donut bread lies in its simplicity. With just a few accessible ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up a delicious loaf that impresses everyone. Plus, it keeps well, making it ideal for meal prepping or gifting to friends and family.

Ready to dive in? Let’s explore this delicious recipe together!

Ingredients for Apple Cider Donut Bread

Creating a cozy loaf of apple cider donut bread is all about using the right ingredients. Let’s dive into what you’ll need to make this delicious treat both inside the loaf and on top!

Essential Ingredients for the Loaf

To whip up a scrumptious apple cider donut bread, gather these essentials:

2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour: This forms the base and provides that tender texture we love.
1 ½ cups (300 g) granulated sugar: It sweetens the loaf and enhances the overall flavor.
2 teaspoons baking powder: This is our rising agent, ensuring a soft, fluffy bread.
2 teaspoons apple pie spice: A blend of warm spices to evoke that classic fall vibe.
½ teaspoon kosher salt: Just enough to balance the sweetness.
1 ¼ cups apple cider or apple juice: The star ingredient adds moisture and flavor.
1 large egg: It helps bind everything together.
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: For richness and a super moist texture.
1 tablespoon vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla takes the flavor to the next level.

Ingredients for the Topping

To finish off your apple cider donut bread with a delightful touch, you'll need:

¼ cup apple cider: This will soak into the warm loaf for extra apple goodness.
½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar: For a sweet, crunchy topping.
2 teaspoons apple pie spice: To tie in those cozy flavors from the bread.

Gather these ingredients, and you’re all set for a baking adventure! For more tips on using seasonal ingredients effectively, check out EatingWell’s Guide to Cooking with Apples. Happy baking!

Preparing Apple Cider Donut Bread

Making Apple Cider Donut Bread is like baking a hug in loaf form. It's simple, comforting, and utterly delicious! Let’s walk through how to prepare this delightful treat so you can savor its cozy flavor with each slice.

Gather and Prep the Ingredients

Before we dive into mixing, it’s essential to gather and prep your ingredients for the apple cider donut bread. You’ll need:

Dry Ingredients:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
2 teaspoons apple pie spice
½ teaspoon kosher salt
Wet Ingredients:
1 ¼ cups apple cider (or juice)
1 large egg (room temperature)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Topping:
¼ cup apple cider
½ cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons apple pie spice

Pro Tip: Having everything prepped makes the process smoother. Measure your ingredients in advance so you can focus on mixing and baking.

Mix the Dry Ingredients Together

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, apple pie spice, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients well is key to achieving an even texture in your apple cider donut bread. Take a moment to appreciate that warm aroma of spices that fills your kitchen!

Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the apple cider, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract. This step is essential for ensuring your wet ingredients are fully integrated for a consistently moist texture in your bread. The combination of apple cider and vanilla imparts a wonderful sweetness that’s bound to make your taste buds dance!

Create the Batter

Now it’s time for the fun part! Pour your wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be cautious here—overmixing can lead to a dense loaf, and we want your apple cider donut bread to be light and fluffy. As you mix, don’t be surprised if it looks a bit runny; that’s perfectly normal!

Bake to Perfection

Pour your batter into a greased loaf pan, leveling it out gently. Bake in a preheated oven set to 350°F for about 65 to 75 minutes. The golden-brown crust will promise you wonderful flavors, and testing with a toothpick will ensure you’re in the clear when it comes to doneness.

Once out of the oven, let the loaf cool for about ten minutes. While it’s still warm, pour a touch of apple cider over the top to make each bite extra moist and flavorful. Finally, sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture to create that signature apple cider donut flavor.

A warm slice of this bread, perhaps enjoyed with a cup of coffee or a cozy tea, is the perfect way to welcome fall—or to simply enjoy any day of the week!

Variations on Apple Cider Donut Bread

Adding Nuts and Dried Fruits

Elevate your apple cider donut bread by incorporating some crunchy nuts or chewy dried fruits! Consider folding in half a cup of walnuts, pecans, or even almonds for a delightful texture contrast. For a touch of sweetness, add dried cranberries or chopped dried apples. They complement the apple cider flavor beautifully and add unexpected bursts of flavor with every slice!

Swapping Vanilla for Other Extracts

While vanilla extract gives this bread a comforting flavor, don’t hesitate to experiment! Try using almond extract or maple extract for a unique twist. Almond adds a nutty depth, while maple provides a lovely, warm sweetness that echoes autumn vibes. Just remember to use these extracts sparingly, as their flavors can become quite pronounced. Have you ever tried a mix of extracts? It’s a game changer!

For some inspiration, check out The Spruce Eats for more fun ingredient substitutions and ideas! These variations will not only make your apple cider donut bread uniquely yours, but they’ll also delight anyone lucky enough to share it with you!

Cooking notes for Apple Cider Donut Bread

Tips for achieving the perfect texture

To get that tender, moist texture in your apple cider donut bread, be careful not to overmix the batter. It’s best when the ingredients are just combined, leaving a slightly runny consistency. Also, using room temperature ingredients helps the batter blend more smoothly, making your bread light and fluffy.

Storing and reheating leftover bread

If you have any leftovers (which is unlikely!), store your apple cider donut bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. To enjoy it later, simply warm a slice in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. You can also toast slices for a delightful crispiness, enhancing that comforting flavor. For longer storage, consider freezing individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a resealable bag, lasting up to three months.

Serving suggestions for Apple Cider Donut Bread

Pairing with coffee or tea

Whether you're enjoying a cozy morning or a lazy afternoon, apple cider donut bread pairs beautifully with your favorite coffee or tea. Picture this: a warm slice beside a steaming cup of spiced chai or a rich dark roast. The flavors complement each other perfectly, making for an irresistible treat! For a sweeter touch, a splash of almond milk in your coffee can enhance the bread's apple and spice notes, leaving you feeling pampered with every bite.

Creative uses: Toasting and spreading

Don’t stop at enjoying this delight as-is! Try toasting a slice of apple cider donut bread for an added crunch. Spread a layer of cream cheese or a hint of cinnamon butter to elevate the experience even further. You could even top it with a dollop of apple butter or honey, transforming it into an indulgent dessert or an energizing breakfast.

Experiment and make it your own! How do you plan to savor your apple cider donut bread?

Time Breakdown for Apple Cider Donut Bread

Knowing how long each stage takes can make your baking process smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s a quick breakdown for making your delicious apple cider donut bread:

Preparation Time

In just 10 minutes, you can get all your ingredients ready and mixed. It's a great way to kick off your baking adventure!

Baking Time

This delightful loaf needs 65 to 75 minutes in the oven. While it bakes, your kitchen will fill with cozy aromas that are simply irresistible.

Total Time

In around 75 minutes, you’ll be enjoying a slice of this delectable bread. Keep it warm and invite friends over to share the deliciousness!

For more helpful tips on timing and techniques, check out the ultimate baking resource to perfect your apple cider donut bread!

Nutritional Facts for Apple Cider Donut Bread

Calories per slice

Each slice of this delightful apple cider donut bread contains approximately 246 calories. Perfect for a cozy breakfast or an afternoon treat, you can enjoy this indulgence without feeling guilty—especially knowing it's packed with seasonal flavors!

Key nutrients to note

Not only does this bread satisfy your sweet tooth, but it also provides some essential nutrients:

Carbohydrates: Fuel up with about 40g of carbs per slice, ideal for energy.
Sugar: Contains roughly 15g of sugar, primarily from granulated sugar and apple cider, adding a touch of sweetness.
Protein: Each slice offers a modest protein boost as it contains around 3g, thanks to the egg and flour.
Fat: With about 6g of fat, primarily from the butter, it lends a rich, moist texture.

For more detailed insights, check out resources like the U.S. Department of Agriculture's FoodData Central for a breakdown of the nutritional value of ingredients. Enjoying this apple cider donut bread can be part of a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation!

FAQs about Apple Cider Donut Bread

How do I prevent the bread from being too dense?
To ensure your apple cider donut bread stays light and fluffy, avoid overmixing the batter. Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed. Additionally, make sure your baking powder is fresh—old leavening agents can lead to density issues. For a bit of extra lift, consider adding an additional egg white, which can help aerate the batter.

Can I use gluten-free flour?
Absolutely! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Many gluten-free flour mixes are designed to mimic regular flour, so choose one that includes xanthan gum for the best texture. Just keep in mind that the taste and texture may differ slightly from traditional apple cider donut bread.

What other spices can enhance the flavor?
In addition to apple pie spice, you might want to experiment with ground cinnamon or nutmeg for a cozy twist. A dash of cardamom can add a subtle warmth that complements the apple flavor beautifully. Feel free to mix and match! For more ideas, check out this spice guide for inspiration.

Conclusion on Apple Cider Donut Bread

In conclusion, apple cider donut bread brings a warm, nostalgic flavor to your baking endeavors. It's perfect for cozy mornings or as a delightful treat for your guests. The combination of apple cider and spices creates a comforting aroma that fills your home. Enjoy your baking journey!