If apple cider donuts are your fall love language, you’re going to be obsessed with this apple cider donut bread. It’s packed with apple pie spice, real shredded apples, and reduced apple cider, but the secret ingredient that takes it over the top is sour cream. It adds the perfect amount of moisture and richness, giving the bread that soft, bakery-style texture that stays fresh for days.

Ingredients

For the Bread:

• 2 cups apple cider
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ⅓ cup granulated sugar
• ⅓ cup packed brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon almond extract
• 1 large egg
• ½ cup sour cream
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon table salt
• 4 teaspoons apple pie spice
• 1¼ cups shredded apple (about 1 large apple)

For the Topping:

• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• ¼ cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

Instructions

1. Reduce the cider: Pour the apple cider into a small saucepan and simmer over medium heat until it reduces to about ¾ cup. This takes around 10–15 minutes and intensifies the apple flavor. Let it cool slightly before using.
2. Cream the butter and sugars: In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the wet ingredients: Mix in the egg, vanilla, reduced apple cider, and sour cream until smooth and creamy.
4. Combine dry ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and apple pie spice.
5. Mix the batter: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until just combined. Fold in the shredded apple gently—avoid overmixing.
6. Bake: Pour the batter into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan and bake at 350°F for 50–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Add the topping: Once slightly cooled, brush the top with melted butter. Combine the cinnamon and sugar, then sprinkle or roll the bread in the mixture for that classic donut coating.

Tips & Tricks

• Full-fat sour cream works best for richness and moisture.
• Use tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for flavor contrast.
• Want more sweetness? Drizzle a quick glaze made from powdered sugar and apple cider once the loaf cools.

FAQ

Can I substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream?

Yes! Full-fat Greek yogurt works perfectly as a 1:1 swap.

How do I store it?

Keep your apple cider donut bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for up to a week.

Can I freeze it?

Absolutely. Slice and wrap individual pieces before freezing for a quick fall treat anytime.

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