Apple Cider Bread Recipe – Moist, Spiced & Easy to Bake

Apple cider bread recipe has been one of the coziest bakes I’ve ever tried at home. The very first time I baked it, the kitchen was filled with the sweet aroma of cinnamon, apples, and warm bread it felt like autumn wrapped in a loaf. The bread turned out moist and flavorful, and I instantly knew it would become a family tradition.

Over the years, I’ve made it for weekend brunches, holiday gatherings, and even as a quick snack with coffee. Its soft texture and lightly spiced sweetness make it irresistible for both kids and adults. If you’re searching for a recipe that’s comforting yet easy to master, this bread is the perfect choice for your baking list.

History & Origin of Apple Cider Bread Recipe

Apple cider bread has humble beginnings in rural America, where apples were harvested in abundance during the fall season. Early home bakers would press fresh cider to sweeten and moisten their bread, making the most of seasonal produce. This rustic loaf became a staple during chilly months, as it was affordable, hearty, and full of flavor. Over time, the recipe evolved into a classic fall favorite, with modern bakers adding cinnamon, nutmeg, and other warming spices for extra depth and aroma.

What is Apple Cider Bread Recipe?

Apple cider bread is a type of spiced quick bread made using apple cider, flour, sugar, spices, and sometimes fresh apple chunks for added texture. Unlike yeast breads, it doesn’t require long rising times, which makes it faster and simpler to prepare. The bread is moist and tender, infused with the rich, tangy sweetness of apple cider and the cozy warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg.

Why You Will Love Apple Cider Bread Recipe

This bread is the perfect balance of sweet and spiced soft on the inside with a light golden crust. It’s a one-bowl recipe that doesn’t require advanced baking skills, making it ideal for both beginners and experienced bakers. Plus, it’s versatile enough to enjoy at breakfast, as an afternoon snack, or served warm with a drizzle of glaze for dessert.

Equipment You’ll Need

Before you begin, gather the following basic kitchen tools:

• Mixing Bowls: For combining wet and dry ingredients separately.
• Whisk or Electric Mixer: To ensure a smooth, lump-free batter.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurement.
• Loaf Pan (9×5 inches): A standard pan to bake the bread evenly.
• Spatula or Wooden Spoon: To fold ingredients without over-mixing.
• Cooling Rack: Helps cool the bread properly, preventing soggy bottoms.

Having these tools ready makes the baking process quicker and smoother.

Ingredients of Apple Cider Bread Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need to make a classic homemade cinnamon apple bread:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 cup apple cider (freshly pressed if possible)
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup light brown sugar, packed
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 medium apple, peeled and finely chopped (optional for extra texture)

How to Make Apple Cider Bread Recipe (Step-by-Step)

Follow these step-by-step instructions to bake the perfect spiced apple cider quick bread at home. Each step is explained in detail so even beginner bakers can achieve a moist and flavorful loaf.

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is crucial because it allows the bread to rise evenly as soon as it enters the oven. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick cooking spray, then line it with parchment paper, leaving a little overhang on the sides for easy lifting after baking. This small step helps prevent the bread from sticking to the pan.

2. Reduce the Apple Cider: Pour 1 cup of apple cider into a small saucepan and place it over medium heat. Allow it to simmer gently until it reduces by half you should end up with about ½ cup of concentrated cider. This process deepens the apple flavor and gives your bread a rich, slightly tangy sweetness. Let the reduced cider cool for a few minutes before mixing it into the batter; adding hot cider can scramble the eggs.

3. Combine the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the following:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg

Whisking these dry ingredients evenly distributes the spices and leavening agents, ensuring the bread bakes evenly and develops a uniform texture.

4. Mix the Wet Ingredients: In another large bowl, combine:

• 2 large eggs (at room temperature)
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup packed light brown sugar
• ½ cup melted unsalted butter (cooled slightly)
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Using a whisk or electric mixer, beat the wet ingredients until smooth and creamy. The mixture should be light and slightly fluffy this step helps give the bread a tender crumb.

5. Add the Reduced Apple Cider: Slowly pour the cooled reduced apple cider into the wet mixture. Stir it in gently but thoroughly, ensuring the cider flavor is evenly incorporated. This step infuses the batter with that distinct apple tang and subtle sweetness that makes this bread special.

6. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to fold the batter gently. Avoid over-mixing; stop as soon as there are no streaks of flour visible. Over-mixing can activate the gluten in the flour, resulting in a dense and tough loaf instead of a light, moist bread.

7. Add Apples (Optional): If you’d like to enhance the texture and natural sweetness, gently fold in 1 medium apple, peeled and finely chopped.This optional step adds juicy bits of apple throughout the bread, making it even more flavorful and visually appealing.

8. Bake the Bread: Pour the finished batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth out the top with a spatula to ensure even baking. Place the pan on the middle rack of the preheated oven and bake for 45–55 minutes.To check for doneness, insert a toothpick or cake tester into the center of the loaf it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.

Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Afterward, use the parchment overhang to lift the loaf out and transfer it to a cooling rack. Let it cool completely before slicing to keep the bread moist and intact.

Nutrition Information

• Calories: 210 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 32 g
• Protein: 3 g
• Fat: 8 g
• Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Cholesterol: 35 mg
• Sodium: 190 mg
• Fiber: 1 g
• Sugar: 18 g

(Nutrition values are approximate and may vary depending on ingredients used.)

How to Serve Apple Cider Bread Recipe

Serve apple cider bread slightly warm with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey for a cozy breakfast. For a more indulgent treat, pair it with cream cheese glaze or enjoy it alongside a hot cup of tea or coffee.

Benefits of Apple Cider Bread Recipe

• Contains real apples and cider, providing a natural source of vitamins and fiber.
• A great homemade alternative to store-bought desserts with no artificial preservatives.
• Lower in sugar than many traditional sweet breads when prepared as directed.
• Perfect for using seasonal produce, reducing food waste.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought apple cider instead of fresh?

Yes, store-bought cider works well, but reducing it on the stove enhances its flavor.

2. Can I make this bread gluten-free?

Absolutely. Substitute all-purpose flour with a good-quality 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

3. How can I make the bread healthier?

 Use whole-wheat flour for half the flour portion, and replace some sugar with honey or maple syrup.

4. Can I freeze apple cider bread?

Yes, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months.

5. What’s the difference between apple cider bread and apple cinnamon bread?

Apple cider bread uses reduced cider for a deeper apple flavor, while apple cinnamon bread relies more on spices and chopped apples.

Conclusion

Baking this apple cider bread recipe at home is not just about creating a delicious loaf it’s about bringing warmth and comfort to your kitchen. With its rich apple flavor, moist crumb, and hints of cinnamon, it’s a simple yet impressive treat for any occasion. Try it once, and you’ll see why this classic bread deserves a spot in your seasonal baking routine.