Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread

This Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread is a perfect fall treat, filled with the warm, comforting flavors of apple cider and cinnamon. The bread is soft and moist with a hint of sweetness, making it perfect for breakfast, a snack, or dessert.

Ingredients:

For the Bread:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional, for extra warmth)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup brown sugar, packed
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup apple cider (not apple juice, for richer flavor)
1/2 cup sour cream (or plain yogurt)

For the Cinnamon Sugar Topping:

2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or cooking spray, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and salt. Set aside.

3. Cream the Butter and Sugar:

In a large bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar using a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed. Beat until light and fluffy, about 3–5 minutes.

4. Add the Wet Ingredients:

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Stir in the vanilla extract.

5. Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Liquids:

Add the dry flour mixture in thirds, alternating with the apple cider and sour cream (or yogurt), starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined after each addition. Be careful not to overmix the batter.

6. Pour the Batter into the Pan:

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly.

7. Make the Cinnamon Sugar Topping:

In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar and cinnamon. Drizzle the top of the batter with the melted butter, then sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the top.

8. Bake the Bread:

Bake in the preheated oven for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, and the bread is golden brown on top.
If the bread is browning too quickly, loosely cover the top with aluminum foil and continue baking until done.

9. Cool the Bread:

Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then remove it from the pan and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips for Success:

Apple Cider: Make sure to use apple cider (not apple juice), as it has a richer, spicier flavor that enhances the bread.
Sour Cream: If you don’t have sour cream, you can substitute it with plain yogurt or buttermilk for a similar texture and tanginess.
Storage: Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months—just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
Serving: This bread is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with a smear of butter or cream cheese for added richness.

Optional Variations:

Apple Pieces: Stir in 1/2 to 1 cup of finely chopped apples for extra texture and a burst of fresh apple flavor.
Walnuts or Pecans: Add 1/2 cup of chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans) for some crunch.
Glaze: Drizzle a simple cinnamon glaze (powdered sugar, apple cider, and cinnamon) over the bread for extra sweetness.

This Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread brings all the cozy, autumnal flavors together in a simple and delicious loaf that’s sure to be a hit with everyone.