Name: Perfectly Moist Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread for Cozy Mornings
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 80 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Apple Cider (Use fresh, unfiltered cider for maximum sweetness and flavor.); 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (Melted to add richness and moisture.); 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar (The primary sweetener; can be substituted with brown sugar.); 1/2 cup Brown Sugar (Contributes added moisture and enhances flavor richness.); 2 large Eggs (Needed for binding and structure.); 1/2 cup Sour Cream (or Greek Yogurt) (Adds moisture and tang.); 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Gluten-free flour is a suitable alternative.); 1 teaspoon Baking Powder (Essential leavening agent.); 1/2 teaspoon Baking Soda (Essential leavening agent.); 2 teaspoons Ground Cinnamon (The star spice for warm flavor.); 1/4 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg (Enhances warmth and flavor.); 1/2 teaspoon Salt (Balances sweetness.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Provides aromatic depth.); 1/4 cup Granulated Sugar (Sweetens the topping for a delightful crust.); 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (Pairs perfectly with sugar.); 1 tablespoon Melted Butter (Used to brush the top.)

As the leaves turn and the air becomes crisp, there’s a certain magic in the kitchen that invites warmth and comfort. That’s the moment I reached for my favorite recipe: Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread. This easy loaf not only captures the essence of fall with its richly spiced aroma but also offers a slice of nostalgia with every bite. Perfect as a breakfast treat or an afternoon snack, it combines reduced apple cider and fragrant cinnamon into a moist loaf with a delightful cinnamon sugar crust. Plus, it’s wonderfully adaptable—consider swapping sour cream for Greek yogurt or using gluten-free flour to cater to your dietary needs. Get ready to fill your home with that irresistible scent; before you know it, you’ll be wondering how you ever made it through a season without this cozy staple! Are you excited to indulge in this heartwarming delight?

Why is Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread a Must-Try?

Warmth and Aroma: Baking this loaf fills your kitchen with an inviting scent that’s synonymous with cozy fall vibes.

Versatility at Its Best: Enjoy it as a breakfast treat, a delightful dessert, or even a snack with your afternoon coffee.

Simple Substitutions: Need to tweak the recipe? Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt or use gluten-free flour without compromising flavor.

Deliciously Moist: The combination of reduced apple cider and spices results in an incredibly moist bread that will keep you reaching for just one more slice!

Maybe you’d like to pair it with a side of butter or cream cheese, or check out my Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread for a similar indulgence!

Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread Ingredients

For the Bread
• Apple Cider – Use fresh, unfiltered cider for maximum sweetness and flavor.
• Unsalted Butter – Melted to add richness and moisture to the bread.
• Granulated Sugar – The primary sweetener; can be substituted with brown sugar for more depth.
• Brown Sugar – Contributes added moisture and enhances flavor richness.
• Eggs – Needed for binding and to provide structure in the loaf.
• Sour Cream (or Greek Yogurt) – Adds moisture and a slight tang; Greek yogurt is an excellent substitute.
• All-Purpose Flour – Forms the base of the loaf; gluten-free flour is a suitable alternative.
• Baking Powder & Baking Soda – Essential leavening agents for that perfect rise.
• Ground Cinnamon – The star spice, giving the bread its warm, comforting flavor.
• Ground Nutmeg – This spice complements cinnamon, enhancing the overall warmth and flavor.
• Salt – Balances the sweetness and elevates overall flavor.
• Vanilla Extract – Provides aromatic depth to the bread.

For the Cinnamon Sugar Topping
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the topping, creating a delightful crust.
• Ground Cinnamon – Pairs perfectly with sugar for that classic cinnamon flavor.
• Melted Butter – Used to brush the top, helping the cinnamon sugar adhere beautifully.

This delightful Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread will not only make your kitchen smell heavenly but also provide a delicious moment of comfort, perfect for the cozy mornings ahead!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread

Step 1: Prepare Apple Cider
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, pour in 1 cup of fresh, unfiltered apple cider. Allow the cider to simmer gently, stirring occasionally, until it reduces to about 1/2 cup, which should take about 15–20 minutes. Once reduced, remove it from heat and let it cool while you prep your loaf pan and gather the other ingredients.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to preheat at 350°F (175°C). While it heats up, take a 9×5-inch loaf pan and lightly grease it or line it with parchment paper. This will ensure easy removal of your delicious Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread after baking, allowing for a clean finish and presentation.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1/2 cup of melted unsalted butter, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 1/2 cup of brown sugar, and 2 large eggs. Whisk them together until smooth. Next, add in 1/2 cup of sour cream (or Greek yogurt) and the cooled apple cider, along with 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, blending everything well until completely combined and creamy.

Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Make sure the mixture is well combined to ensure even distribution of flavors and leavening agents in your Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread.

Step 5: Fold the Mixtures Together
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a rubber spatula. Stir gently until just combined; be careful not to overmix. The goal is to keep the batter light and fluffy, ensuring your bread retains its moist texture. You should see no dry flour remaining when you’re done.

Step 6: Bake the Bread
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 45–50 minutes. It’s done when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top browns too quickly, you can cover it loosely with aluminum foil.

Step 7: Cool the Bread
Once baked, remove the loaf pan from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes on a wire rack. This cooling step helps the bread set and makes the transfer easier. After 10 minutes, gently remove the Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread from the pan and allow it to cool completely on the wire rack.

Step 8: Finish with Cinnamon Sugar
While the bread is still warm, brush the top with melted butter and generously sprinkle the cinnamon sugar topping over it. Press lightly to help the mixture adhere and create that beautiful crunchy crust. Let the bread cool completely before slicing to enjoy your delightful homemade treat!

Make Ahead Options

These Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the wet ingredients (butter, sugars, eggs, sour cream, vanilla, and cooled cider) up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can mix the dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, baking soda, spices, and salt) and keep them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, bring the wet ingredients to room temperature, combine both mixtures gently, and then proceed with baking as directed. This way, you’ll enjoy all the deliciousness of homemade Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread with minimal effort on busy mornings!

How to Store and Freeze Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread

Room Temperature: Store your bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or foil for up to 3 days to keep it fresh and flavorful.

Fridge: For longer storage, you can keep the bread in the refrigerator for up to a week, just remember to wrap it well to prevent it from drying out.

Freezer: Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread freezes beautifully! Slice it before freezing, and store in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating: To enjoy a slice from the freezer, simply thaw at room temperature or for faster results, reheat in a toaster oven or microwave until warm.

Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread Variations

Feel free to put your unique spin on this cozy loaf and make it your own!

Dairy-Free: Substitute unsalted butter with coconut oil or a plant-based butter for a dairy-free delight.
Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend as an easy swap without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Spice it Up: Add a pinch of ground ginger or clove for an extra layer of fall spice; it’ll elevate the warm flavors beautifully.
Nutty Texture: Stir in 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and a delightful nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with apple.
Fruit Variation: Mix in 1/2 cup of diced apples or dried cranberries for bursts of sweetness in each bite. The added moisture from the fruit will keep the loaf irresistibly soft!
Cinnamon Swirl: Create a cinnamon-sugar swirl by layering half the batter, sprinkling a mixture of cinnamon and sugar, then topping with the remaining batter before baking.
Muffin Transformation: For individual servings, pour the batter into muffin tins for quick, grab-and-go treats; bake for about 20-25 minutes!
Fancy Glaze: Drizzle a maple glaze over the cooled bread for a sweet, decadent finish that’s perfect for special occasions or festive gatherings.

Whether you’re enjoying this with a warm cup of coffee or serving it at a gathering, don’t forget to check out my Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread for another delicious twist on comfort baking!

Expert Tips for Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread

Reduce Cider Properly: Ensure that your apple cider is reduced to intensify its sweetness and flavor; this step is crucial for the best results.
Avoid Overmixing: Gently fold the wet and dry ingredients together. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture, so keep it light and fluffy!
Perfect Substitutions: If you need a healthier option, Greek yogurt can replace sour cream for a tangy flavor without compromising moisture.
Check Doneness: Use a toothpick to test for doneness; if it comes out clean, your Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread is ready to be enjoyed!
Store Wisely: After cooling, wrap leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or foil. This keeps the bread fresh for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.
Slicing Tip: Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing to help maintain its lovely moist texture and avoid crumbling.

What to Serve with Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread

Indulging in a slice of this warm, spiced loaf opens up a world of delightful pairing possibilities that elevate your cozy experience.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their smooth texture and buttery flavor provide a savory contrast to the sweet loaf, perfect for a comforting meal.
Warm Apple Compote: This sweet-tart topping echoes the flavors of the bread, enhancing every bite with fruitiness and warmth.
Coffee or Spiced Tea: A steaming cup complements the spices of the bread beautifully, creating a comforting pick-me-up during chilly mornings.
Honey Butter: Spread this sweetened butter onto warm slices for an added layer of richness that pairs delightfully with the cinnamon flavor.
Pumpkin Soup: A bowl of this creamy soup not only warms you up but brings a cozy fall essence that harmonizes wonderfully with the bread.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of this creamy delight on a warm slice creates a fantastic contrast of temperatures, making for a perfect dessert.
Candied Pecans: Their sweet crunch adds texture and nutty flavor, bringing a lovely dimension to the overall enjoyment of the loaf.
Cranberry Sauce: The tartness balances the sweetness of the bread, creating a vibrant and flavorful pairing for your morning or afternoon treat.
Herbal Infusion: A refreshing herbal tea offers a light finish that cleanses the palate, allowing the rich flavors of the bread to shine through.

Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread Recipe FAQs

What type of apple cider should I use for the best flavor?
I recommend using fresh, unfiltered apple cider for the richest sweetness and flavor. Look for a brand that doesn’t have added preservatives, as these can affect the taste. The reduced cider is essential to enhancing the overall flavor of your Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread!

How should I store the Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread?
To keep your bread fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend its shelf life, you can refrigerate it for up to a week with proper wrapping to prevent drying.

Can I freeze Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread?
Absolutely! This loaf freezes exceptionally well. For best results, slice the bread before placing it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It will stay fresh in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw it at room temperature or reheat individual slices in a toaster oven or microwave until warm.

What should I do if my bread comes out dense?
If you notice that your Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread is dense, it might be due to overmixing the batter. When you combine your wet and dry ingredients, mix gently just until there’s no dry flour left. Overmixing introduces too much air into the batter, leading to a dense loaf.

Can I make substitutions like gluten-free flour?
Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, but make sure it’s a one-to-one substitute, which is suitable for baking. The texture may vary slightly, but your Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread will still be deliciously moist and flavorful.

Is this recipe safe for pets or those with allergies?
While the ingredients in Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread are safe for most people, it’s important to note that it contains significant amounts of sugar and dairy, which may not be suitable for pets. Additionally, always clarify any allergy concerns before serving it to anyone with food sensitivities, especially with ingredients like eggs and dairy.