Why Make This Recipe

Making Sourdough Apple Cider Donut Quick Bread is a delicious way to enjoy the fall flavors of apple cider and spices. This bread has a soft and moist texture, enriched by the unique tang of sourdough. It’s perfect for breakfast, as a snack, or even a dessert. The warm cinnamon-sugar topping gives it a delightful sweetness that pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee or hot apple cider. Plus, it’s an excellent way to use sourdough discard, reducing waste while creating a treat everyone will love.

How to Make Sourdough Apple Cider Donut Quick Bread

Ingredients:

350 grams (1 1/2 cups) apple cider, reduced
265 grams (1 3/4 cups + 2 Tablespoons) all-purpose flour
6 grams (1 1/4 teaspoon) baking powder
6 grams (1 teaspoon) baking soda
2 grams (1 teaspoon) cinnamon
1 gram (1/4 teaspoon) nutmeg
3 grams (1/2 teaspoon) salt
160 grams (3/4 cup) dark brown sugar
2 egg yolks
120 grams (1/2 cup) sour cream
8 grams (2 teaspoons) vanilla extract
100 grams (1/2 cup) neutral oil
120 grams (1/2 cup) sourdough discard
14 grams (1 Tablespoon) unsalted butter, melted
50 grams (1/4 cup) sugar
1 gram (1/2 teaspoon) cinnamon

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Prepare a 9 x 5 inch loaf pan by greasing and lining it with parchment paper for easy removal. Set aside.
Bring the apple cider to a boil in a small saucepan. Once boiling, reduce to low heat and let it simmer until it reduces to 120 grams (1/2 cup). This usually takes about 20 minutes—check every five minutes. Once done, let it cool in a measuring cup for at least 10 minutes.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Whisk until thoroughly mixed.
In another bowl, whisk together dark brown sugar, egg yolks, sour cream, vanilla extract, oil, sourdough discard, and the reduced apple cider until smooth.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined—be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense quick bread.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Allow the quick bread to cool in the pan for 20 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. It’s best to let it cool for at least 2 hours for easier slicing.
On a rimmed baking sheet, mix the sugar and cinnamon together. Brush the melted butter on all sides of the loaf. Let the butter soak in for 30-60 seconds. Then, dip each side into the cinnamon sugar mixture, pressing it on gently with your hands.
Once coated, slice the bread and enjoy it with a cup of hot apple cider!

How to Serve Sourdough Apple Cider Donut Quick Bread

This quick bread is lovely when served warm or at room temperature. It pairs well with coffee, tea, or warm apple cider. You can also serve it with butter or a spread of your choice for an extra treat.

How to Store Sourdough Apple Cider Donut Quick Bread

To store your quick bread, keep it wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator or at room temperature before serving.

Tips to Make Sourdough Apple Cider Donut Quick Bread

Make sure to reduce the apple cider exactly to 120 grams for the best flavor.
Avoid overmixing the batter to keep the bread light and fluffy.
Let the bread cool completely before slicing to maintain its structure.

Variation

For a twist on this recipe, you can add 1 gram (1/4 teaspoon) of ground ginger for a little extra spice. You can also mix in chopped nuts or dried apples for added texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use different types of sugar?

Yes, you can use light brown sugar instead of dark brown sugar. The flavor will be slightly different, but it will still be delicious.

What can I substitute for sour cream?

Greek yogurt works as a great substitute for sour cream in this recipe.

Can I make this bread without sourdough discard?

Yes, you can replace the sourdough discard with an equal amount of flour and water for a similar texture, though the flavor may change slightly.

Enjoy baking this delightful Sourdough Apple Cider Donut Quick Bread and savor the cozy flavors of fall!