Introduction

Everyone’s favorite Donut Bread just got a delicious fall upgrade with cozy pumpkin flavors and warm spices. This easy recipe transforms a classic treat into the perfect autumn breakfast or snack. For more seasonal baking inspiration, try the Cream Cheese Pumpkin Pie Crescent Rolls Recipe or Best Pumpkin Cupcakes with Caramel Frosting.

Ingredients

This cozy fall bread combines warm apple cider flavor with a tender, moist crumb and that signature cinnamon-sugar donut coating everyone loves.

• ½ cup apple cider
• ½ cup unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce
• 3 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1½ teaspoons baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ½ tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Timing

Context: This version of Everyone’s favorite Donut Bread just got a delicious fall upgrade is about 20% faster than similar recipes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare Your Ingredients

Gather all ingredients for your fall-upgraded Donut Bread: flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, pumpkin puree, eggs, milk, and melted butter. Measure accurately for consistent results.

For the best flavor, use fresh pumpkin puree or high-quality canned puree without added sugars or spices.

Step 2 — Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups flour, ¾ cup sugar, 2 teaspoons baking powder, ½ teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and ¼ teaspoon nutmeg.

Ensure the leavening agents are evenly distributed to help the bread rise uniformly during baking.

Step 3 — Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk 1 cup pumpkin puree, 2 large eggs, ½ cup milk, and ¼ cup melted butter until smooth.

Use room-temperature eggs and milk to help the batter come together more easily and bake evenly.

Step 4 — Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Do not overmix—a few lumps are fine.

Overmixing can lead to a tough, dense texture, so stop as soon as no dry streaks remain.

Step 5 — Prepare the Pan and Add Batter

Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.

For a bakery-style finish, sprinkle the top with a mix of cinnamon and sugar before baking.

Step 6 — Bake to Perfection

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Check for doneness at the 50-minute mark—the top should be golden and spring back when lightly pressed.

Step 7 — Cool and Glaze

Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

For an extra fall touch, drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar, milk, and a pinch of cinnamon.

Step 8 — Slice and Serve

Once fully cooled, slice the Donut Bread into thick, even pieces using a serrated knife.

Serve slightly warmed with a pat of butter or a cup of spiced coffee for the ultimate autumn treat.

Nutritional Information

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Protein powder — Replace ¼ cup flour with vanilla or unflavored protein powder for a protein boost with subtle sweetness.
• Almond flour — Swap half the all-purpose flour for almond flour to reduce carbs and add nutty richness.
• Coconut sugar — Use instead of granulated sugar for a lower glycemic index and caramel-like flavor.
• Applesauce — Substitute for half the butter or oil to cut fat while keeping moisture and adding apple notes.
• Oat or almond milk — Replace regular milk with unsweetened versions for a dairy-free option that complements warm spices.
• Gluten-free flour blend — Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour to make this treat celiac-friendly without sacrificing texture.
• Reduced-sodium baking powder — Opt for low-sodium baking powder to lower overall sodium while maintaining rise.
• Greek yogurt — Swap sour cream or buttermilk with plain Greek yogurt for extra protein and tangy creaminess.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair warm slices with a scoop of cinnamon ice cream or a dollop of spiced apple butter for a cozy autumn dessert.
• Serve alongside a hot mug of chai tea, pumpkin spice latte, or mulled cider for the ultimate fall beverage pairing.
• Transform it into French toast by dipping thick slices in a cinnamon-vanilla egg batter and pan-frying until golden.
• Bring it to a fall brunch or tailgate—it’s a crowd-pleaser that pairs well with other seasonal baked goods.
• Create an elegant dessert by toasting slices and topping with caramel drizzle, toasted pecans, and a dusting of powdered sugar.
• Serve it warm straight from the oven with a simple glaze made from maple syrup and a pinch of nutmeg.

Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or enjoying a quiet morning, this fall-inspired donut bread is versatile enough to shine in any setting.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using cold ingredients straight from the refrigerator. Fix: Bring eggs and dairy to room temperature for better emulsification and a more uniform crumb.
• Mistake: Overmixing the batter once flour is added. Fix: Mix just until combined to prevent developing gluten, which makes the bread tough instead of tender.
• Mistake: Incorrectly measuring flour by scooping directly with the cup. Fix: Spoon flour into the measuring cup and level it off for accuracy; too much flour creates a dense loaf.
• Mistake: Baking in a pan that’s too dark or non-stick, causing over-browning. Fix: Use a light-colored metal loaf pan and reduce oven temperature by 25°F to prevent a dark crust.
• Mistake: Opening the oven door frequently to check doneness. Fix: Use the toothpick test only near the end of baking to avoid temperature drops that can cause collapsing.
• Mistake: Adding too many fall mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips. Fix: Limit add-ins to 1 cup total and toss them in flour so they don’t sink to the bottom during baking.
• Mistake: Not letting the bread cool completely before slicing. Fix: Wait at least 1-2 hours for the structure to set, preventing a gummy, squashed texture.
• Mistake: Skipping the spice toasting step for pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon. Fix: Gently toast spices in a dry pan for 30 seconds to unlock their full aromatic fall flavor.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days. The bread stays moist and flavorful when refrigerated properly.
• Freezer: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm slices in a 300°F oven for 8-10 minutes or microwave for 15-20 seconds until heated through. Always reheat to an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety.

Proper storage ensures your fall-upgraded donut bread stays delicious and safe to enjoy whenever the craving strikes.

Conclusion

This fall version of Everyone’s favorite Donut Bread is the perfect seasonal treat for cozy mornings and holiday gatherings. Give this delicious upgrade a try and share your baking results in the comments below! For more autumn baking inspiration, check out Soft, spiced pumpkin donuts topped with sweet maple glaze and Mini Pumpkin Bundt Cakes.

Apple Cider Donut Bread

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

A moist, tender quick bread infused with apple cider and warm fall spices, topped with a cinnamon-sugar coating that mimics the flavor of classic cider donuts.

• Author: Dorothy Miler
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x
• Method: Breakfast, Dessert
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• ½ cup apple cider
• ½ cup unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce
• 3 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1½ teaspoons baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ½ tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
2. In a small saucepan, bring apple cider to a boil and reduce by half. Let cool.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy using a stand mixer with paddle attachment or hand mixer.
4. Add vanilla extract, eggs, applesauce, and Greek yogurt; mix until combined.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
6. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
7. Stir in the reduced apple cider until batter is smooth.
8. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
9. While bread bakes, mix granulated sugar and cinnamon for topping.
10. Remove bread from oven and immediately brush the top with melted butter.
11. Sprinkle cinnamon sugar mixture generously over the buttered top.
12. Allow bread to cool in pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Notes

Reducing the apple cider intensifies its flavor, giving the bread a deep, concentrated apple taste. The cinnamon-sugar topping mimics the classic cider donut coating, making this quick bread a perfect fall treat. Use either a stand mixer or hand mixer for creaming butter and sugar based on your preference.

Nutrition

• Calories: 280
• Sugar: 25
• Sodium: 220
• Fat: 10
• Saturated Fat: 6
• Unsaturated Fat: 4
• Trans Fat: 0
• Carbohydrates: 40
• Fiber: 1
• Protein: 3
• Cholesterol: 50

FAQs

What makes this fall version of Everyone’s favorite Donut Bread different?

This fall upgrade includes warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, plus pumpkin puree for a moist, seasonal twist. It transforms the classic recipe into a cozy treat perfect for autumn.

Can I make this recipe if I don’t have pumpkin puree?

Yes, you can substitute applesauce or mashed sweet potato for a similar texture and fall flavor. The recipe for Everyone’s favorite Donut Bread just got a delicious fall upgrade remains forgiving and adaptable.