Few things capture the essence of fall quite like the aroma of cinnamon, apples, and sugar filling your kitchen. This Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread is the perfect way to bring those warm, cozy flavors into your home. Soft, moist, and topped with a crackly cinnamon-sugar crust, this quick loaf is ideal for breakfast, a midday snack with coffee, or a sweet treat to share with friends and family.

Inspired by apple cider donuts, this recipe delivers the same nostalgic flavor in a simple, sliceable loaf—no deep frying required. With its buttery crumb, fragrant spices, and sweet crust, it’s a fall and winter baking must-have.

---

Why You’ll Love This Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread

• Authentic fall flavor – Reduced apple cider infuses the loaf with rich apple notes.
• Easy to make – No mixer required, just simple pantry ingredients.
• Versatile treat – Enjoy it warm for breakfast, serve as dessert, or pair with coffee for an afternoon snack.
• Bakery-style finish – The cinnamon sugar topping adds a delightful crunch reminiscent of donuts.

---

Ingredients

For the Bread:

• 1 ½ cups apple cider (to reduce)
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup packed brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cinnamon Sugar Topping:

• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons melted butter (for brushing)

---

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Reduce the Apple Cider
Simmer apple cider in a small saucepan over medium heat until it reduces to about ½ cup (15–20 minutes). Let cool slightly.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, sugars, eggs, sour cream, vanilla, and cooled cider.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.

Step 4: Make the Batter
Slowly mix dry ingredients into wet ingredients until just combined. Do not overmix.

Step 5: Bake the Loaf
Pour batter into a greased or parchment-lined 9×5-inch loaf pan. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

Step 6: Add the Cinnamon Sugar Crust
While warm, brush loaf with melted butter and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar mixture, pressing lightly so it sticks.

---

Baking Tips for the Best Texture

• Don’t skip reducing the cider – It concentrates the flavor.
• Use fresh spices – They make a noticeable difference.
• Avoid overmixing – This keeps the loaf tender.
• Be generous with the topping – It’s what makes this loaf special.

---

Variations & Seasonal Twists

• Add chopped apples for extra texture.
• Mix in walnuts or pecans for crunch.
• Drizzle with a maple glaze for a sweeter finish.
• Swap cinnamon for pumpkin spice for a festive twist.
• Bake as muffins or mini loaves for gifting.

---

Serving Suggestions

• Warm slices with butter or cream cheese.
• Toasted with coffee or apple cider.
• Dressed up with caramel drizzle or powdered sugar.

---

Storage & Freezing

• Room temp: Store in airtight container for 3 days.
• Fridge: Keeps for up to 6 days.
• Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight or warm before serving.

---

Recipe FAQ

Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Absolutely, it gives the same texture and a slight tang.

Is apple juice the same as apple cider?
No, use unfiltered apple cider for best flavor.

---

Recipe Summary

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Serves: 8 slices