If you’re craving a cozy, crave-worthy treat that perfectly captures the essence of autumn, look no further than this Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread. With notes of spiced apple, a buttery crumb, and a show-stopping cinnamon swirl, this loaf is equally at home on a chilly morning or front and center at a holiday brunch. It’s simple to make, wildly flavorful, and destined to be your new go-to snack for every crunchy leaf season.

Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You don’t need anything fancy to bake up this gorgeous loaf—just a handful of pantry staples and a bottle of apple cider! Each ingredient has its own special role, whether bringing structure, moisture, or that irresistible aromatic warmth. Here’s what you’ll need (and why you shouldn’t skip a thing):

All-purpose flour: The foundation for a perfect quick bread crumb—stick with the classic for the best texture.
Baking powder & baking soda: These work together to create a light, fluffy rise every single time.
Salt: Just a pinch brings all the sweet and spiced flavors to life.
Ground cinnamon: The star spice—woven into both the batter and that dreamy swirl.
Ground nutmeg: Adds depth and a subtle, cozy flavor that echoes fall desserts.
Unsalted butter, softened: For unbeatable richness and that classic, homey aroma as it bakes.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the bread and creates the signature cinnamon ribbon.
Large eggs: Bind everything together and give structure to the loaf.
Vanilla extract: A splash adds warmth and ties all the flavors together.
Apple cider: The secret to that deep, orchard-fresh flavor—reduce it for an even bigger punch.
Sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt): Gives the bread its wonderfully moist and tender crumb.
For the Cinnamon Swirl – Granulated sugar & ground cinnamon: This dynamic duo forms the gorgeous swirl and a caramelized hit of sweetness in every bite.

How to Make Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal. This little step is a game changer for a flawless flip and that picture-perfect slice.

Step 2: Whisk the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, add the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Give everything a good whisk—combining the leaveners and spices with the flour ensures your Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread is spiced evenly in every bite.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a larger bowl, use a mixer or sturdy spoon to beat the softened butter and sugar together until fluffy and pale. This step helps make the loaf ultra-tender and provides the perfect sweet base for our bread.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Crack in the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then splash in the vanilla extract. You’re building structure and adding a lovely, fragrant note that truly complements the apple-cinnamon flavors.

Step 5: Blend in Apple Cider and Sour Cream

Pour in the apple cider and dollop in the sour cream (or Greek yogurt). Mix just until smooth. If you reduced your cider beforehand, this is where you’ll notice that special richness—the batter will smell like an apple orchard in full bloom.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Add the dry mixture gradually, folding just until combined. Don’t overmix—the goal is a rustic, slightly lumpy batter that bakes up soft and gorgeous. Overmixing can make any quick bread tough, so keep it gentle!

Step 7: Layer, Swirl, and Bake

Spoon half the batter into your loaf pan and smooth it out. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture across the top, then repeat with the rest of the batter and cinnamon sugar. Swirl a butter knife through the layers for the signature Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread look. Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick emerges mostly clean (a few moist crumbs are perfect).

Step 8: Cool and Slice

Let the loaf rest in the pan for 10 minutes before turning it out onto a wire rack to cool completely. This brief wait helps the bread set and release easily—no torn top, just beautiful slices ready to serve.

How to Serve Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread

Garnishes

A sprinkle of powdered sugar makes an elegant finishing touch, but you can also drizzle a vanilla glaze or add a few thin slices of apple for a fresh pop. For true autumn vibes, a pat of lightly salted butter melting over a warm slice is pure joy.

Side Dishes

Pair a thick slice of Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread with creamy Greek yogurt, fresh fruit, or a mug of hot coffee or chai. For brunch, it’s delightful beside crispy bacon and eggs—or keep it simple with a tall glass of apple cider for extra orchard magic.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut your loaf into cubes to serve as sweet dippers with caramel sauce, or layer slices with whipped cream for a festive parfait. Try toasting a slice and topping with vanilla bean ice cream for an unforgettable dessert. Don’t be afraid to play—Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread brings the wow factor in any form.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once your bread is totally cool, wrap it snugly in plastic or stash it in an airtight container. Stored at room temperature, it stays delicious for up to 3 days. For longer-lasting freshness (especially in a warm kitchen), you can keep it refrigerated for up to a week.

Freezing

This Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread freezes like a dream! Let the loaf cool completely, then wrap it tightly in a double layer of plastic and foil (or use a freezer bag). It’ll keep beautifully for up to 3 months—just defrost overnight in the fridge or at room temp when you’re ready for another slice.

Reheating

Want that fresh-from-the-oven feeling? Warm individual slices in the microwave for about 10–15 seconds, or pop them in a toaster oven for a crisp edge. To rewarm the whole loaf, cover with foil and heat in a 300°F oven for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use apple juice instead of apple cider?

For best flavor, stick with apple cider if possible—it’s usually less filtered, richer, and has that autumn tang you want. Apple juice works in a pinch, but your bread may be a bit lighter on that deep apple flavor signature of Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread.

Is it necessary to reduce the apple cider?

No, but reducing it will concentrate the apple flavor and give your bread extra character. Just simmer the cider on the stove until it’s halved in volume, then cool before adding to your batter for maximum impact.

Can I add mix-ins like apples or nuts?

Absolutely—diced apples and toasted pecans or walnuts are wonderful additions. Stir up to 1 cup of mix-ins into the batter after folding in the dry ingredients for a delicious twist.

My bread sank in the middle. What happened?

This is usually due to underbaking or overmixing the batter. Check your oven temperature, be gentle when mixing, and use the toothpick test to ensure the bread is cooked through before removing it.

How do I know when Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread is done?

Start checking around 55 minutes—insert a toothpick into the center. It should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Avoid overbaking to keep your bread extra moist and tender.

Final Thoughts

This Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread is the sort of recipe that turns an ordinary day into something extra special. There’s joy in every step—and pure comfort in every slice. Whether you serve it for breakfast, dessert, or a little afternoon pick-me-up, I hope it becomes a beloved tradition in your kitchen, too. Give it a try and let the aroma of fresh-baked apple and cinnamon make your day a whole lot sweeter!