Apple Bread with Cider Glaze Recipe
I’m so excited to share this Apple Bread with Cider Glaze Recipe with you—it’s honestly one of my favorite ways to welcome cozy fall mornings or impress guests at brunch. The bread is wonderfully moist and packed with warm spices and fresh apple chunks that give every bite a bit of juicy sweetness. What really makes this recipe sing, though, is the cider glaze poured right over the top, adding a perfect touch of tangy sweetness that complements the bread beautifully.
You might think apple bread is just another loaf, but this one has a special charm. Whether you’re baking for family, prepping brunch for friends, or bringing something homemade to a potluck, this Apple Bread with Cider Glaze Recipe stands out because it feels homemade without being complicated. Plus, it holds up so well for leftovers, so you get to enjoy that comforting apple-cinnamon flavor for days.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this recipe comes together from a balance of staple pantry items and fresh apples that bring brightness. I always recommend picking apples that are crisp but sweet — like Honeycrisp or Fuji — because their flavor holds up well baked, and they give you just the right texture.
- All-purpose flour: The base of the bread, it helps create that perfect tender crumb you’re aiming for.
- Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness without overwhelming the other flavors.
- Light brown sugar: For a subtle molasses undertone that pairs beautifully with cinnamon.
- Ground cinnamon: A staple in apple desserts; brings warmth and depth.
- Ground nutmeg: Just a pinch gives a lovely aromatic lift without being too strong.
- Baking soda and baking powder: These work together to give your bread a light rise and great texture.
- Salt: Enhances all the sweet and spicy flavors.
- Large eggs: Help bind all the ingredients and add richness.
- Oil: Keeps the bread moist — I use neutral oils like canola or vegetable.
- Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and complexity to the batter.
- Fresh apples: Peeled and chopped, they become pockets of sweet juiciness baked into the bread.
- Apple cider: The star of the glaze, bringing tang and sweetness to finish it off.
- Salted butter: Just a little in the glaze for richness and balance.
- Powdered sugar: To create that smooth, luscious glaze.
Variations
One of my favorite things about the Apple Bread with Cider Glaze Recipe is how versatile it can be. I love changing it up depending on what I have on hand or my mood—don’t be shy about making it your own!
- Adding nuts: Toasted walnuts or pecans add a lovely crunch and a hint of earthiness—I’ve tried this and it gives the bread extra texture and flavor depth.
- Spice it up: Experiment with a bit of ground ginger or cloves if you like your spice profile bolder.
- Gluten-free swap: Using a gluten-free flour blend works great here, just watch the texture—it might be a little more delicate.
- Swap the apples: Pears or even diced quince make a tasty twist if you want to try something different.
How to Make Apple Bread with Cider Glaze Recipe
Step 1: Mix Your Dry Ingredients
Start by whisking together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, baking soda, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl. I like to sift everything together to avoid any lumps, especially with the spices and leavening agents. Getting this step right sets the foundation for an evenly flavored bread with no weird clumps of powder.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients and Apples
In another bowl, whisk the eggs until light, then add the oil and vanilla extract. Toss in the peeled, chopped apples and mix well. I usually peel the apples the day before and store them in a splash of lemon water to keep them fresh and prevent browning. The wet mixture is where the moisture and flavor start to come alive.
Step 3: Bring It All Together
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and fold gently with a spatula until just combined. The key here is not to overmix—stop folding as soon as you don’t see flour streaks. Overmixing can lead to tough bread, and we want it tender and fluffy. Once combined, pour the batter into a greased loaf pan, smoothing the top.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Bake the bread at 350°F (175°C) for about 55–60 minutes. I always start checking at 55 minutes by poking with a toothpick in the center—it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached. If the bread is browning too quickly, tent it loosely with foil the last 10 minutes. Let it cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack while you make the glaze.
Step 5: Make the Apple Cider Glaze
In a small saucepan, bring the apple cider and butter to a gentle boil and reduce it down to about 1/4 cup to concentrate the flavor—don’t skip this step, it really intensifies the glaze. Remove from heat and whisk in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth. Pour this glossy glaze over the warm bread so it seeps into every nook and cranny.
How to Serve Apple Bread with Cider Glaze Recipe
Garnishes
I love to sprinkle a few toasted pecans or a dash of extra cinnamon on top after glazing. Sometimes, a thin apple slice fanned out on the side of the slice makes it look extra special—and yes, still totally homemade!
Side Dishes
This apple bread pairs beautifully with a cup of chai tea or freshly brewed coffee if you’re serving it for breakfast. For an afternoon treat, serving alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream turns it almost into a dessert.
Creative Ways to Present
For holiday gatherings or fall parties, I like to slice the bread, drizzle a little extra warm cider glaze, and place each slice on a small dessert plate lined with a cinnamon stick and a sprig of fresh rosemary. It’s simple but immediately gives a festive, cozy vibe that guests always comment on.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I keep leftover apple bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and stored in an airtight container at room temperature. It stays moist and fresh for up to 3 days—perfect for snacking or quick breakfasts. If your kitchen is warm, the fridge also works fine, just bring slices back to room temp before eating.
Freezing
If you want to make this Apple Bread with Cider Glaze Recipe ahead, freezing is your best friend. I slice the bread first, wrap individual slices in foil, then place them in a freezer bag. That way, you can thaw only what you need, and it still tastes almost freshly baked.
Reheating
To bring back that just-baked warmth, I pop my slices in the toaster oven or microwave for 20–30 seconds. If you like, add a little extra drizzle of warmed apple cider glaze or a smear of butter, and it’s like you just pulled it out of the oven again.
FAQs
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Can I use apple sauce instead of chopped apples in this Apple Bread with Cider Glaze Recipe?
You can substitute apple sauce, but keep in mind the bread will be denser and moister, with less texture from chunks of apple. I love the contrast that chopped apples bring, but if you prefer apple sauce, reduce some of the oil slightly to balance moisture.
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Is there a way to make the cider glaze without the apple cider?
If you don’t have apple cider on hand, you can substitute with pear juice or even a mix of apple juice and a splash of lemon juice. The flavor will be a bit different but still tasty. Just be sure to reduce it down to get that thick glaze consistency.
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How do I know when the apple bread is fully baked?
Use a toothpick or cake tester and insert it into the center of the loaf—when it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter), your bread is done. The top should be golden brown and spring back lightly when pressed.
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Can I make mini loaves instead of one large loaf?
Absolutely! Mini loaf pans work great and will reduce the baking time to about 30-40 minutes. Just keep an eye on them and use the toothpick test to judge doneness.
Final Thoughts
This Apple Bread with Cider Glaze Recipe has become one of my go-to comfort bakes. It’s got that nostalgic, warm apple pie vibe but in a simpler, more casual form that’s perfect anytime. I hope you find it as satisfying and fuss-free as I do. Trust me, once you give this a try, it’ll be your new favorite apple treat to whip up when you want to fill your kitchen with cozy, irresistible aromas.
Print
Apple Bread with Cider Glaze Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 65 minutes
- Total Time: 80 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (about 12 slices) 1x
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Apple Bread with Cider Glaze is a delightful, moist quick bread bursting with warm spices and tender chunks of apple, topped with a sweet and tangy apple cider glaze. Perfect for breakfast, afternoon tea, or as a comforting dessert, this recipe combines classic fall flavors in a simple, easy-to-make loaf.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 3/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 cup oil (vegetable or canola)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups apples, peeled and chopped (about 2 medium apples)
Apple Cider Glaze
- 1/2 cup apple cider
- 1 tablespoon salted butter
- 6 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, baking soda, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
- Combine the Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs thoroughly. Add the oil and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth. Then gently fold in the peeled and chopped apples.
- Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the wet ingredient mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir carefully just until everything is combined and no large flour pockets remain. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.
- Prepare the Baking Pan: Grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal of the bread.
- Bake the Bread: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared loaf pan. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 60 to 70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Make the Apple Cider Glaze: In a small saucepan, bring the apple cider to a simmer over medium heat. Reduce it by half, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the salted butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and glossy.
- Glaze the Bread: Once the bread has cooled, drizzle the apple cider glaze generously over the top. Allow the glaze to set for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a balance of sweetness and acidity.
- Make sure eggs are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
- Do not overmix the batter to avoid a dense bread.
- Store leftover bread wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- The glaze can be warmed slightly if it thickens too much before use.
Keywords: apple bread, apple cider glaze, quick bread, fall recipe, spiced bread, moist apple loaf
