Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread Recipe

There is something utterly magical about a slice of warm, spicy, and sweet Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread that instantly brings cozy fall vibes right to your kitchen table. This recipe combines the tart, fragrant essence of reduced apple cider with the nostalgic warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg, all baked into a soft, tender loaf that’s perfectly moist thanks to sour cream. Whether you’re welcoming friends for brunch or looking for a comforting treat on a chilly morning, Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread is a delightful homemade gem that fills your home with an irresistible aroma and satisfies your cravings for that perfect balance of sweet and spice.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread relies on simple, wholesome ingredients that each play a crucial role in building its delightful flavor and texture. From the reduced apple cider’s concentrated sweetness to the balance of spices and the creamy moisture from sour cream, every item is essential to crafting this irresistible loaf.

• Apple cider: Reducing 1 1/2 cups to 1/2 cup intensifies its natural sweetness and deep apple flavor.
• Unsalted butter: Provides richness and helps keep the bread tender and moist.
• Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with the bread’s light crumb.
• Brown sugar: Gives a hint of molasses flavor and enhances moisture.
• Eggs: Bind the ingredients and add structure to the loaf.
• Sour cream (or Greek yogurt): Adds tangy moisture that makes the bread soft and tender.
• All-purpose flour: The base of the bread, ensuring a sturdy yet soft crumb.
• Baking powder and baking soda: Help the bread rise perfectly, yielding a light texture.
• Ground cinnamon: Brings warm spice that defines the flavor profile.
• Ground nutmeg: Adds subtle earthy spice to complement the cinnamon.
• Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
• Vanilla extract: Adds depth and a sweet aromatic background.
• Cinnamon sugar topping ingredients: Melted butter, cinnamon, and sugar combine for a crunchy, flavorful crust that seals in all the bread’s deliciousness.

How to Make Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread

Step 1: Reduce the Apple Cider

Start by simmering the apple cider in a saucepan over medium heat until it reduces from 1 1/2 cups down to 1/2 cup. This process concentrates the sweetness and the essence of the cider, which then infuses your bread with that vibrant apple character. Be sure to let it cool before mixing it into your batter to avoid scrambling the eggs later on.

Step 2: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

While the cider is reducing, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×5-inch loaf pan to prevent sticking and help the bread bake evenly.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, sour cream, vanilla extract, and the cooled reduced apple cider. This mixture forms the flavorful and moist backbone of your Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread, ensuring each bite is rich and tender.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. Mixing these first helps distribute the leavening agents and spices evenly throughout the bread.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as that can make the bread tough. The batter should be thick but smooth.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The golden crust that forms is just begging to be topped with a little extra love.

Step 7: Add the Cinnamon Sugar Topping

Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then carefully transfer it to a wire rack. While still warm, brush the top with melted butter and sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over it. Press lightly to set the topping, giving it that irresistible crunchy layer that brings this Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread to a whole new level.

How to Serve Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread

Garnishes

A simple dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey complements this bread beautifully, highlighting its warm spices and apple notes. For an extra touch of luxury, spread on a pat of cinnamon-infused butter or cream cheese frosting which adds a creamy, rich contrast that guests will love.

Side Dishes

This bread pairs wonderfully with a cup of hot chai tea or freshly brewed coffee, making it perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside a bowl of spiced butternut squash soup or a fresh green salad dressed with cider vinaigrette to echo those autumn flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice the Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread thickly and toast it lightly, then top with a spread of homemade apple butter or ricotta cheese and a drizzle of maple syrup for an elevated brunch treat. It also works beautifully as a base for bread pudding — simply cube it and soak it in custard before baking for a comforting dessert.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled completely, wrap leftover Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. At room temperature, it stays fresh for up to three days. The bread’s moist texture holds up well, making it perfect for enjoying throughout the week.

Freezing

This bread freezes exceptionally well. Wrap slices or the whole loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil or place into a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature or warm gently in the oven before serving.

Reheating

To bring back its just-baked charm, reheat slices in a toaster oven or microwave for about 20 seconds until warm. For a crisp crust, a brief toast followed by a spread of butter is ideal. Just like that, your Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread feels freshly baked all over again.

FAQs

Can I use regular milk instead of sour cream or Greek yogurt?

While you can substitute milk, sour cream or Greek yogurt provides acidity that reacts with baking soda to give the bread its tender crumb and slight tang, so you might notice a difference in texture and flavor.

Is it necessary to reduce the apple cider?

Yes, reducing the cider concentrates its flavor and sweetness. Without this step, the bread might have excess liquid and a milder apple taste.

Can I add nuts or dried fruit to this bread?

Absolutely! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or dried cranberries complement the spices and apple flavors beautifully. Just fold them in with the dry ingredients to avoid overmixing.

What makes this bread so moist?

The combination of sour cream, melted butter, and reduced apple cider keeps the bread wonderfully moist and tender without being heavy or greasy.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, try substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend designed for one-to-one baking. You may need to adjust baking time slightly and check the bread for doneness.

Final Thoughts

There is truly nothing like the cozy warmth and comforting aroma of homemade Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread fresh from the oven. It’s a perfect way to celebrate the flavors of fall or any time you want a slice of happiness that feels both nostalgic and new. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and share it with the people you love—because some things are just better when they’re homemade and full of heart.

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