When the crisp autumn air sets in, nothing says cozy comfort quite like a warm slice of Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread. This seasonal favorite combines the sweet tang of apple cider with the warmth of cinnamon, making it perfect for family gatherings or a quiet weekend treat. Sofie, our in-house recipe developer, tested this recipe more than seven times to guarantee a foolproof, delicious loaf every time.
In this post, you’ll learn everything from why reducing cider is key to storage tips, plus a reliable recipe you can make at home. If you’re a fan of fall baking, you might also love our Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting or Gluten Free Peach Cobbler.
What is Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread?
Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread is a moist, quick bread infused with reduced apple cider and warming spices. It captures the flavors of fall and often includes a crunchy cinnamon-sugar topping reminiscent of an apple cider donut.
For another fall favorite, try our Chewy Oatmeal Cookies.
Why Do You Need to Reduce the Apple Cider?
Reducing apple cider intensifies its natural sweetness and flavor. By simmering it down, you concentrate the apple essence, giving the bread a rich, deep taste without making the batter too watery.
Can I Make This Recipe Into Muffins?
Absolutely! This batter works beautifully as muffins. Simply divide it into a lined muffin tin and bake at the same temperature for about 18–22 minutes. You’ll get individual portions perfect for school lunches or brunch spreads.
If you love portable treats, check out our One Bowl Peppermint Brownies.
How Do You Store Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread?
Store the cooled bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 1 week or freeze slices individually for up to 3 months. Thaw and rewarm slightly before serving.
How Do I Prevent the Bread From Being Too Dense?
To keep your loaf light and fluffy:
- Don’t overmix the batter—stir just until combined.
- Make sure your baking soda and baking powder are fresh.
- Measure flour correctly by spooning it into the cup and leveling off.
What Are Some Delicious Variations?
Try these fun twists to make your Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread unique:
- Mix-ins: Chopped apples, walnuts, pecans, or dried cranberries
- Streusel Topping: Add a buttery brown sugar crumb layer before baking
- Glaze: Drizzle with apple cider glaze or cream cheese icing after cooling
- Spices: Add nutmeg, allspice, or cloves for extra warmth
Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups apple cider (reduced to 1/2 cup)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional topping: 2 tablespoons cinnamon sugar
Instructions
- Reduce the cider: In a saucepan, simmer apple cider over medium heat until reduced to about 1/2 cup. Let cool.
- Preheat oven: Heat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla and sour cream.
- Combine: Stir in the reduced cider. Gently fold in dry ingredients until just combined—do not overmix.
- Prepare pan: Pour batter into loaf pan. Sprinkle cinnamon sugar topping if using.
- Bake: Bake 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. If the top browns too quickly, tent loosely with foil.
- Cool: Allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread is a crowd-pleasing, family-friendly recipe that delivers cozy fall flavors in every slice. With its balance of sweetness, spice, and tender crumb, it’s the perfect addition to your seasonal baking lineup. Whether served at a holiday gathering or enjoyed with your morning coffee, this bread never disappoints.
Ready to bake your own loaf? Visit homecookstudio.com for more seasonal recipes like Soft & Thick Peanut Butter Cookies and Chewy Oatmeal Cookies. Don’t forget to share your own twists on Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread in the comments below!
PrintApple Cider Cinnamon Bread Recipe
This Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread is a cozy fall-inspired quick bread packed with warm cinnamon spice and rich apple cider flavor. Perfect for family gatherings, brunch, or enjoying with a cup of coffee.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Bread, Dessert
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
2 cups apple cider (reduced to 1/2 cup)
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional topping: 2 tablespoons cinnamon sugar
Instructions
1. Simmer apple cider over medium heat until reduced to about 1/2 cup. Let cool.
2. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment.
3. Whisk flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt in a bowl.
4. Beat butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then vanilla and sour cream.
5. Stir in reduced cider. Fold in dry mixture until just combined—do not overmix.
6. Pour batter into loaf pan. Sprinkle optional cinnamon sugar topping.
7. Bake 50–60 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean. Tent with foil if browning too quickly.
8. Cool in pan 10 minutes, then transfer to wire rack. Slice and enjoy!
Notes
Store at room temperature up to 3 days, refrigerate up to 1 week, or freeze up to 3 months.
Can also be baked as muffins (18–22 minutes).
Add-ins like walnuts, pecans, or chopped apples work beautifully.


