If you are craving a cozy and delicious treat that captures the essence of autumn in every bite, this Apple Bread with Cider Glaze Recipe is just what you need. Imagine tender, moist bread bursting with warm spices and fresh apple chunks, perfectly complemented by a silky glaze made from reduced apple cider. This recipe balances sweetness and spice beautifully, turning simple ingredients into a show-stopping loaf that’s perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert. Trust me, once you try this Apple Bread with Cider Glaze Recipe, it will become your new favorite go-to for entertaining or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, pantry-friendly ingredients is all it takes to create this crowd-pleaser. Each component plays a crucial role—the flour forms the structure, the spices add warmth, and fresh apples bring juicy bursts of flavor that keep every slice exciting.
- 3 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the perfect foundation for a tender, moist bread texture.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness without overpowering the apple flavor.
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed: Gives the bread a subtle caramel note and enhances moisture.
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: Adds cozy, fragrant warmth that pairs beautifully with apples.
- 3/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Offers a hint of spice that rounds out the flavor profile.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the bread rise for a light and airy crumb.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Works with baking soda to give the bread a gentle lift.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and elevates the overall flavor.
- 4 large eggs, room temperature: Bind ingredients together and contribute richness.
- 1 cup oil: Keeps the bread wonderfully moist and tender.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Adds depth and a sweet, fragrant finish.
- 2 cups apples, peeled and chopped (about 2 medium apples): Fresh apples provide juicy pockets of flavor and texture.
- 1/2 cup apple cider: Used to create a luscious glaze that enhances the apple taste.
- 1 tablespoon salted butter: Adds richness and smoothness to the glaze.
- 6 tablespoons powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the glaze to a perfect drizzle consistency.
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract: Completes the glaze with a hint of aromatic sweetness.
How to Make Apple Bread with Cider Glaze Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pan
Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper, making sure to grease the parchment as well. This little step makes removing the bread after baking a breeze and keeps the crust intact.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. This ensures the spices and leaveners are evenly distributed to award the bread consistent flavor and proper rise.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs with oil and vanilla extract until smooth. This mixture adds moisture and richness, laying the foundation for tender crumb inside the bread.
Step 4: Bring the Batter Together
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir gently just until combined. Remember, the batter will be thick and dense, which is exactly what you want for this hearty apple bread. Avoid overmixing for the best texture.
Step 5: Fold in the Apples
Carefully fold the peeled and chopped apples into the batter, making sure they’re evenly spread without overworking the dough. These fresh apple chunks keep the bread moist and bursting with flavor in every bite.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden
Transfer the batter to your prepared loaf pan and smooth the surface. Bake in the preheated oven for 50 to 55 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached. Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before moving it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 7: Make the Cider Glaze
While the bread is cooling, bring the apple cider to a boil in a small saucepan over high heat. Lower the heat and let it simmer until reduced by half. This reduction intensifies the sweet-tart apple flavor and thickens the cider into a rich syrup.
Step 8: Finish the Glaze and Drizzle
Remove the reduced cider from heat and whisk in butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until glossy and smooth. Drizzle this luscious glaze generously over the cooled apple bread, letting it soak in to deliver that extra pop of apple goodness.
How to Serve Apple Bread with Cider Glaze Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly chopped pecans or walnuts sprinkled on top of the glaze add a wonderful crunch and nutty contrast. A tiny dusting of cinnamon or powdered sugar makes the presentation even more inviting and festive.
Side Dishes
This apple bread pairs beautifully with a cup of hot tea or coffee, making it an ideal companion for a relaxed morning or afternoon treat. For a heartier breakfast, serve alongside a creamy yogurt parfait or scrambled eggs.
Creative Ways to Present
For gatherings, slice the bread and serve it with small bowls of extra cider glaze or apple butter for dipping. You can also create mini apple bread sliders by layering cream cheese and apple slices between two thin slices of bread for an irresistible twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftover apple bread tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It will stay moist and flavorful at room temperature for up to three days, making it perfect for enjoying throughout the week.
Freezing
This bread freezes beautifully! Wrap it well with plastic wrap and then foil, or use a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to three months and thaw overnight in the refrigerator to enjoy later without losing any of its moistness or flavor.
Reheating
To refresh leftover slices, warm them briefly in a toaster oven or microwave just until slightly heated. Adding a small pat of butter on top while reheating can recreate that freshly baked feel and taste.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of apple for this bread?
Absolutely! Tart apples like Granny Smith or sweeter varieties such as Fuji can be used. Just choose firm apples to ensure they hold their shape during baking.
Is it necessary to peel the apples?
Peeling is recommended for a smoother texture, but if you love extra fiber and don’t mind a bit of chewiness, you can leave the skins on for a more rustic loaf.
Can I make this bread gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures up cup-for-cup to keep the texture similar. Be sure the blend contains xanthan gum or add some to help with binding.
How long does the glaze stay fresh?
The cider glaze is best applied fresh, but if you have leftovers, store it in a sealed container in the fridge for up to two days. Rewarm gently before using again.
Can I use apple juice instead of cider for the glaze?
You can, but apple cider adds a richer, spiced flavor that apple juice lacks. If using apple juice, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon to mimic the cider’s depth.
Final Thoughts
This Apple Bread with Cider Glaze Recipe is such a delightful treat that effortlessly combines familiar fall flavors with a moist, tender crumb and a glaze that makes each slice irresistible. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or a cozy solo snack, this recipe is sure to brighten your day and fill your kitchen with wonderful aromas. Give it a try—you’ll be so glad you did!
