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Apple Cider Cinnamon Swirl Bread Recipe

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4.3 from 57 reviews

A soft, moist quick bread infused with apple cider and layered with a sweet cinnamon swirl. Perfect for cozy fall mornings or holiday gatherings, this Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread combines warm spices and a tender crumb for a delightful treat.

  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: 1 loaf (10–12 slices)

Ingredients

Bread Batter

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp baking soda
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • ½ tsp ground nutmeg
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ½ cup apple cider (reduced for stronger flavor if desired)
  • ½ cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt)

Cinnamon Swirl

  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tbsp ground cinnamon

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the bread after baking.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg until evenly combined.
  3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer or by hand until the mixture is light and fluffy, which helps create a tender crumb.
  4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract to add depth of flavor.
  5. Incorporate Wet Ingredients: Mix in the apple cider and sour cream gently until the batter is smooth and uniform. The cider provides moistness and a subtle tanginess.
  6. Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures: Gently fold the dry mixture into the wet batter using a spatula until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.
  7. Layer with Cinnamon Swirl: Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Evenly sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the batter. Repeat with the remaining batter and cinnamon-sugar topping. Use a knife to swirl the cinnamon mixture lightly through the batter for an appealing marbled effect.
  8. Bake the Bread: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the bread comes out clean.
  9. Cool and Serve: Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents the bread from becoming soggy and helps set its structure.

Notes

  • For a stronger apple flavor, simmer the cider until reduced by half before using to concentrate its taste.
  • Add chopped apples or pecans into the batter to introduce extra texture and flavor.
  • Store the bread covered at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to 1 week to maintain freshness.
  • This bread freezes well: wrap the cooled loaf tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Author: Jessica
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Category: Dessert / Snack / Breakfast
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian