Ingredients
Scale
- 1 ½ cups apple cider (reduced to ½ cup)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Pour the apple cider into a small saucepan over medium-high heat. Bring it to a boil and let it simmer until it reduces to exactly ½ cup. This should take about 10 to 12 minutes. This step is crucial because it concentrates the flavor and sugars. Set it aside to cool to room temperature before using.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan generously with butter or non-stick cooking spray. You can also line the bottom with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal later.
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Ensure there are no large clumps of spices so the flavor distributes evenly throughout the loaf.
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with the granulated sugar and brown sugar using a hand mixer or stand mixer. Continue mixing for about 2 to 3 minutes until the mixture looks light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, beating again until well combined.
- Turn your mixer to low speed. Add about half of the dry flour mixture to the butter mixture, followed by the cooled cider reduction. Add the remaining flour and mix just until the white streaks disappear. Do not overmix, or the bread will become tough.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Place it on the center rack of the oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. The bread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes. Run a knife around the edges and carefully transfer the loaf to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve with your favorite toppings.
- Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes