As the leaves start to change and the air turns crisp, there’s nothing quite like the enchanting aroma of baked goods wafting through the kitchen. Imagine slicing into a warm loaf, its cinnamon sugar crust sparkling like autumn leaves in the sunlight, revealing a tender crumb infused with the rich flavors of apple cider. I stumbled upon this delightful recipe one chilly afternoon, searching for a cozy treat that could bring the warmth of fall to my table.
This Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf is more than just a cake; it’s a celebration of the season, transforming the beloved flavors of apple cider donuts into a comforting loaf that’s perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a cozy afternoon snack. With its delightful spices and a crunchy topping enticingly reminiscent of your favorite fall treats, each slice brings a sense of nostalgia and warmth. So, grab your ingredients and let’s get baking the sweetest way to welcome the autumn bounty!
Why You’ll Love This Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf
Unforgettable Flavor: The cozy combination of apple cider, cinnamon, and nutmeg channels autumn’s spirit in every bite.
Simple Preparation: With straightforward steps, even beginner bakers will feel like pros.
Perfectly Moist: The inclusion of butter and apple cider guarantees a tender, moist crumb that melts in your mouth.
Versatile Delight: Ideal for breakfast, dessert, or a sweet snack, it effortlessly fits into any occasion.
Crowd-Pleasing Goodness: Serve it warm with tea or ice cream, and watch it disappear at your gatherings!
Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf Ingredients
For the Loaf
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides essential structure; substitute with a gluten-free flour blend for those needing gluten-free options.
- Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent to create a fluffy texture.
- Baking Soda – Balances the acidity of the apple cider; do not substitute for best results.
- Salt – Enhances the flavors; a necessary component for balance.
- Ground Cinnamon – Infuses warmth and spice; feel free to increase for a bolder flavor.
- Ground Nutmeg – Adds a cozy, nutty warmth; fresh nutmeg delivers the best taste.
- Ground Allspice – Provides depth and complexity; can be replaced with additional cinnamon if needed.
- Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture; opt for plant-based butter for a dairy-free version.
- Granulated Sugar – Essential for sweetness and structure; do not omit.
- Brown Sugar – Introduces moisture with a slight caramel flavor; either light or dark varieties work well.
- Large Eggs – Binds the ingredients together and adds moisture; no direct substitutes recommended.
- Apple Cider – Imparts a delightful apple flavor and moisture; apple juice or buttermilk can be used as substitutes.
- Vanilla Extract – Elevates the overall flavor; pure vanilla extract provides the best results.
For the Cinnamon Sugar Topping
- Granulated Sugar – Creates sweetness in the topping; essential for that signature crunch.
- Ground Cinnamon – Perfectly complements the loaf, enhancing the aromatic experience; adjust to taste.
Dive into creating this Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf and fill your kitchen with the warm scents of fall!
How to Make Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf
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Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan, ensuring it’s ready for that delicious batter!
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Whisk Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, blend together all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice. This spices up your batter perfectly!
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Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together melted unsalted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and eggs until smooth. Pour in the apple cider and vanilla extract, blending everything beautifully.
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Combine Ingredients: Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet mixture until just combined. Be gentle to preserve that light, tender texture—don’t overmix!
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Bake the Loaf: Pour your batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The aroma will be heavenly!
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Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Topping: In a small bowl, mix additional granulated sugar and cinnamon together. Once the loaf cools slightly, brush the top with melted butter and generously sprinkle with this delightful mixture.
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Slice and Enjoy: Once it’s set to a perfect temperature, slice into your warm loaf and serve! It’s best enjoyed fresh and warm, capturing all those cozy flavors.
Optional: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf
Room Temperature: Keep your loaf in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain its moist texture and fresh flavor.
Fridge: For longer storage, wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the fridge, where it can last for up to a week.
Freezer: To freeze, slice the loaf and wrap each piece in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil or place them in a freezer-safe bag. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy your spiced apple cider donut loaf, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful customizations to make this loaf your own!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a deliciously accommodating option.
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Nutty Twist: Add 1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a crunchy contrast that enhances flavor.
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Dairy-Free: Use plant-based butter and almond milk instead of regular butter and cream for a dairy-free delight.
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Fruit-Infused: Include 1 cup of diced apples for added moisture and a sweet, fruity bite that complements the spices.
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Spice it Up: Increase the cinnamon and nutmeg amounts to make the loaf even more aromatic, perfect for spice lovers.
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Citrus Zing: Mix in the zest of one orange or lemon for a refreshing twist that brightens the warm flavors.
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Caramel Drizzle: After slicing, drizzle the loaf with homemade or store-bought caramel sauce for an indulgent touch.
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Chai Flavor: Add 1 teaspoon of chai spice mix to the batter for a cozy twist reminiscent of your favorite autumn chai.
Feel free to mix and match these variations and enjoy the beautiful flavors of fall!
What to Serve with Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf?
Imagine your cozy loaf paired with delightful accompaniments that elevate its warmth and flavor!
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Hot Apple Cider: The cinnamon-infused drink mirrors your loaf’s spices, creating a comforting autumn experience. Sip it in your favorite mug while you enjoy a slice.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy ice cream adds a rich, cool contrast to the warmth of your loaf. Every bite becomes a delicious duet of textures.
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Chai Tea: The spiced notes of chai harmonize with the loaf, enhancing its comforting flavors. It’s a perfect pairing for an afternoon treat.
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Maple Syrup Drizzle: A drizzle of real maple syrup adds a sweet, rich layer that makes each bite even more indulgent.
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Yogurt with Honey: Creamy yogurt topped with a drizzle of honey brings a refreshing touch to balance the loaf’s sweetness, perfect for breakfast.
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Candied Pecans: Crunchy, sweet, and slightly salty, these nuts create a delightful texture contrast, adding a gourmet flair to your snack time.
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Spiced Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, a dollop of spiced whipped cream enhances the autumnal theme. It’s an elegant finish for dessert.
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Fruit Salad: A fresh, bright fruit salad complements the loaf beautifully, offering a refreshing balance to its rich flavors and spices, all while adding a burst of color.
Each of these pairings enhances the cozy essence of your Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf, making your meal even more delightful!
Expert Tips for Making Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can result in a tough loaf. Mix just until combined for a tender texture in your spiced apple cider donut loaf.
- Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground cinnamon and nutmeg enhance the flavor significantly. Opt for whole spices if possible for the best aroma and taste.
- Check Doneness Carefully: Always test the loaf’s doneness with a toothpick. It should emerge clean for a perfectly baked loaf.
- Cool Before Topping: Let the loaf cool slightly before brushing with butter and sprinkling with cinnamon sugar. This prevents sogginess and ensures a delightful crunch.
- Adjust for Moisture: If your apple cider is particularly watery, consider reducing other liquid components slightly to maintain perfect moisture balance in your loaf.
Make Ahead Options
These Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week. You can mix the dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice) and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Additionally, blend the wet ingredients (butter, sugars, eggs, apple cider, and vanilla) and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply combine the wet and dry mixtures, pour into the prepared loaf pan, and bake as directed for a freshly baked, comforting loaf that smells just as delicious as if it were made that day!
Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf Recipe FAQs
How should I select apples for my apple cider?
When choosing apples for your apple cider, go for fresh, crisp varieties like Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Fuji. Look for apples that feel firm to the touch and have vibrant skin without dark spots or blemishes. If possible, select apples that are in season as they will have the most flavor and sweetness.
How do I store my Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf?
To keep your loaf fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend its life, wrap it well in plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for up to a week for better moisture retention.
Can I freeze the Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf?
Absolutely! To freeze, slice the cooled loaf and wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This method can keep the loaf fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the microwave or oven for the best taste.
What should I do if my loaf is too dense?
If your loaf turns out dense, it’s possible that the batter was overmixed or you added too much flour. To prevent this, be gentle when folding the wet and dry ingredients together—mix just until combined. Also, ensure you’re accurately measuring your flour; using a kitchen scale can help you get the perfect amount.
Is this recipe suitable for those with allergies?
The Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf contains common allergens such as eggs and gluten from the all-purpose flour. However, to make it more inclusive, you can substitute with a gluten-free flour blend for those with gluten sensitivities and use a plant-based butter to cater to dairy allergies. Be sure to check that any store-bought apple cider is allergen-free too!
Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf that Screams Fall Flavor
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x5-inch loaf pan, ensuring it’s ready for that delicious batter!
- Whisk Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, blend together all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together melted unsalted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and eggs until smooth. Pour in the apple cider and vanilla extract.
- Combine Ingredients: Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet mixture until just combined. Be gentle to preserve that light, tender texture.
- Bake the Loaf: Pour your batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Topping: In a small bowl, mix additional granulated sugar and cinnamon together. Once the loaf cools slightly, brush the top with melted butter and sprinkle with this mixture.
- Slice and Enjoy: Slice into your warm loaf and serve! It’s best enjoyed fresh and warm.