Sourdough Apple Cider Donut Quick Bread Recipe

If you love the cozy flavors of fall wrapped up in a tender, moist bread, then you are in for a treat with this Sourdough Apple Cider Donut Quick Bread Recipe. It takes the beloved taste of cider donuts and transforms it into a delightful quick bread that’s perfect for breakfast, snack time, or dessert. The tangy sourdough discard adds a lovely depth, while the apple cider reduction infuses each bite with a rich, fruity sweetness. Finished off by a buttery cinnamon sugar coating, this recipe brings all those warm, nostalgic flavors into one irresistible loaf you’ll want to make over and over again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting this quick bread just right starts with a few simple but essential ingredients that create a perfect balance of flavor, texture, and aroma. Each element plays a special role from tender crumb to that classic apple cider spice profile.

• Apple cider (350 grams / 1 1/2 cups): Reduced down to intensify the natural sweetness and apple flavor that defines the loaf.
• All-purpose flour (265 grams / 1 3/4 cups plus 2 tablespoons): Provides structure while keeping the bread light and tender.
• Baking powder (6 grams / 1 1/4 teaspoon): Helps the bread rise and become fluffy without using yeast.
• Baking soda (6 grams / 1 teaspoon): Works alongside baking powder to give just the right lift and texture.
• Cinnamon (2 grams / 1 teaspoon): Adds that iconic warm spice that makes this recipe feel like autumn in every bite.
• Nutmeg (1 gram / 1/4 teaspoon): A subtle, earthy spice that pairs beautifully with the cinnamon.
• Salt (3 grams / 1/2 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness perfectly.
• Dark brown sugar (160 grams / 3/4 cup): Contributes moisture and a deep caramel undertone; light brown sugar works too!
• Egg yolks (2): Richness and help bind the ingredients for a soft, tender crumb.
• Sour cream (120 grams / 1/2 cup): Adds moisture and a slight tang for delightful depth.
• Vanilla extract (8 grams / 2 teaspoons): Rounds out the flavor and adds warmth.
• Neutral oil (100 grams / 1/2 cup): Keeps the quick bread moist without overpowering the other flavors.
• Sourdough discard (120 grams / 1/2 cup): Infuses subtle tang and contributes to the tender texture.
• Unsalted butter (14 grams / 1 tablespoon), melted: For brushing and helping the cinnamon sugar coating stick.
• Sugar (50 grams / 1/4 cup): Combined with cinnamon to create the signature cinnamon sugar crust.

How to Make Sourdough Apple Cider Donut Quick Bread Recipe

Step 1: Reduce the Apple Cider

Begin by boiling your apple cider in a small saucepan to reduce it down to about half a cup. This concentrates all the fruity, sweet flavors we want to shine through in the quick bread. Remember to whisk occasionally and watch it carefully so it doesn’t burn. Once reduced, let it cool slightly before using it in your batter.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together your all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. These spices and leavening agents come together to give your bread that perfect spicy aroma and tender crumb. If you’re feeling adventurous, add a pinch of ground ginger for a little extra warmth!

Step 3: Prepare the Wet Ingredients

Whisk the dark brown sugar, egg yolks, sour cream, vanilla extract, neutral oil, sourdough discard, and the cooled reduced apple cider until smooth and well combined. This rich mixture brings moistness, tang, and sweetness all in one bowl, ensuring every bite feels indulgent.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ones and gently fold them together just until combined. It’s super important not to over mix here—overworking the batter can lead to a dense quick bread, and we want this loaf light, fluffy, and tender, reminiscent of those crisp cider donuts you adore.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Pour your batter into a prepared loaf pan lined with parchment paper, then bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 50 to 60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Let it rest in the pan for 20 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Sourdough Apple Cider Donut Quick Bread Recipe Finishing Touch

While the bread cools, mix sugar and cinnamon in a shallow dish. Brush the loaf all over with melted butter, allowing it to soak in for about a minute, then press the sides into the cinnamon sugar – this final step gives you that irresistible, crunchy, seasoned crust that makes this bread feel like a true cider donut in loaf form.

How to Serve Sourdough Apple Cider Donut Quick Bread Recipe

Garnishes

This quick bread shines with its cinnamon sugar crust, but if you want to dress it up a bit more, try a light drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of finely chopped toasted nuts. These simple additions elevate the flavor and give each slice a little extra wow factor.

Side Dishes

Pair slices of this bread with a hot cup of spiced apple cider or a creamy chai latte to bring out all those cozy fall flavors. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream makes for an indulgent dessert twist that never disappoints.

Creative Ways to Present

For gatherings, serve this Sourdough Apple Cider Donut Quick Bread Recipe as individual mini loaves or thick slices arranged on a rustic wooden board with fresh apple slices and cinnamon sticks for a charming autumn spread. You can even cut thinner slices and toast them lightly for a crispy breakfast treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftover quick bread tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness. It should stay moist and delicious for up to three days, making it perfect for breakfast on the go.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy this beloved bread beyond a few days, wrapped it well and freeze for up to three months. Defrost overnight in the fridge to preserve its texture and flavor.

Reheating

Rewarm slices in a toaster oven or microwave for 20-30 seconds to bring back that fresh-baked warmth. Adding a little butter or cream cheese spread after reheating can take it over the top—just like fresh out of the oven.

FAQs

Can I use regular sourdough starter instead of discard?

Yes, but keep in mind sourdough discard is unfed starter so it’s less active and won’t overpower the bread’s rise. Using active starter might affect the texture slightly, but the flavor will still be lovely.

What can I substitute for apple cider in this recipe?

If you don’t have apple cider on hand, unsweetened apple juice is a great alternative. You can also add a pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg to the juice before reducing it to mimic that cider flavor.

Is this quick bread suitable for freezing after it’s coated in cinnamon sugar?

To keep the coating crunchy, it’s best to freeze the loaf before applying the cinnamon sugar. Then, once thawed and warmed, brush with melted butter and dip into the cinnamon sugar just before serving.

Can I add mix-ins to the quick bread?

Absolutely! Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans, dried cranberries, or even small apple chunks would be delicious additions. Just fold them in gently during the wet and dry ingredient combination step.

How does the sourdough discard affect the flavor?

The sourdough discard adds a subtle tang and depth to the quick bread that makes it stand apart from regular cake or bread recipes. It complements the spices beautifully and gives a moist, tender crumb.

Final Thoughts

This Sourdough Apple Cider Donut Quick Bread Recipe is a joyful way to bring all those comforting autumn flavors into one easy-to-make loaf. Whether you’re new to sourdough or a seasoned baker, this quick bread will quickly become a favorite to bake, share, and savor with a warm drink on a crisp day. Give it a try—I promise it’s love at first bite!

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