On a crisp autumn morning, nothing warms the soul quite like the aroma of freshly baked goods wafting through the air. Today, I’m excited to share my cozy recipe for Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf with a Cinnamon Sugar Crust. This delightful loaf is a perfect blend of moist, tender bread infused with the comforting flavors of apple cider, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice. What makes it even better? It’s quick to prepare and bakes in under an hour, making it an ideal choice for busy mornings or a sweet snack during the day. Plus, it’s freezer-friendly and can easily be adapted for gluten-free diets. Ready to discover the secret to enjoying the taste of fall in every slice? Let’s dive into baking bliss!
Why is this donut loaf irresistible?
Comforting Flavors: This loaf is a delightful mix of apple cider, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice that captures the essence of autumn in every bite.
Quick to Make: With a prep time of just minutes and a bake time under an hour, you’ll satisfy your craving without the hassle.
Freezer-Friendly: Enjoy this scrumptious loaf anytime by storing slices in the freezer for those days when you need a sweet pick-me-up.
Versatile Options: Want to customize? It’s easy to swap ingredients, like using a gluten-free flour blend, or adding nuts for added texture.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for sharing at gatherings or as a cozy treat for yourself, this loaf will impress anyone who takes a bite!
Don’t forget to check out our other delicious recipes like Gingerbread Cake Cinnamon or Cheesy Broccoli Bake to keep your baking adventures going!
Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf Ingredients
For the Batter
• All-Purpose Flour – Structure is key; feel free to use a gluten-free blend for a tasty alternative.
• Baking Powder – This leavening agent is essential for that perfect rise in your loaf.
• Baking Soda – Another must-have for achieving a light and airy texture.
• Salt – Enhances all the flavors, balancing the sweetness beautifully.
• Ground Cinnamon – Adds warmth; ginger can be used for a spicier twist.
• Ground Nutmeg – Brings a cozy depth; freshly grated is always ideal.
• Ground Allspice – Offers a rich flavor; extra cinnamon can be substituted if needed.
• Unsalted Butter – Infuses richness and moisture; vegan butter works wonderfully too.
• Granulated Sugar – Provides sweetness and structure; brown sugar can add extra moisture and flavor.
• Brown Sugar – Delivers moisture; you can substitute with more granulated sugar if necessary.
• Large Eggs – Essential for binding; for a vegan option, use flax eggs.
• Apple Cider – The star of the show, bringing moisture and flavor; can be swapped with apple juice in a pinch.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor profile; pure extract is best for a rich taste.
For the Topping
• Cinnamon Sugar – Creates the delightful crunchy crust; feel free to adjust the sugar to your taste!
With these ingredients in hand, you’re well on your way to creating a delicious Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf with a Cinnamon Sugar Crust that’s sure to warm hearts and homes alike. Happy baking!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf with a Cinnamon Sugar Crust
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with cooking spray or butter to ensure your Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf releases easily after baking. Set the prepared loaf pan aside for later use as you move on to mixing the dry ingredients.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of salt, 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and ½ teaspoon of ground allspice. Stirring continuously will help aerate the flour and combine the spices, creating a fragrant base for your loaf. Set the bowl aside while you prepare the wet ingredients.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another medium-sized bowl, melt ½ cup of unsalted butter and allow it to cool slightly. Add ¾ cup of granulated sugar, ½ cup of brown sugar, and 2 large eggs to the melted butter, and beat until the mixture is smooth and well blended. Then, mix in 1 cup of apple cider and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, ensuring a lovely rich flavor permeates the batter.
Step 4: Combine Batter Mixture
With the wet ingredients combined, gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula. Stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix, as this might lead to a denser loaf. You should see a few streaks of flour remaining—this is perfect! Now, transfer the glorious, spiced batter into the greased loaf pan for baking.
Step 5: Bake the Loaf
Bake your Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf in the preheated oven for 45 to 50 minutes. To test for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf; it should come out clean or with a few crumbs clinging to it. As your loaf bakes, the delightful aroma of cinnamon and apple will fill your kitchen, tantalizing everyone nearby.
Step 6: Cool and Coat
Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 5 to 10 minutes. Carefully turn it out onto a wire rack, letting it cool slightly more. While still warm, brush the top of the loaf with melted butter and generously sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over it. This crunchy topping will add that delightful finish you’re looking for!
Step 7: Slice and Serve
After brushing with cinnamon sugar, slice your Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf while warm for the best texture and flavor. The soft, fragrant loaf contrasted with the sweet, crunchy topping makes for a perfect treat any time of day. Best enjoyed fresh, gather your loved ones around to share this cozy, autumn-inspired delight!
What to Serve with Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf
Savoring a slice of this cozy loaf evokes the comfort of fall, and pairing it with delightful sides makes it even more special.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their buttery richness offers a savory contrast to the sweetness of the loaf, creating a satisfying blend of flavors.
- Warm Apple Crisp: This classic dessert shares a similar flavor profile, enhancing the apple notes while adding a crunchy texture for a delightful experience.
- Maple Candied Bacon: A sweet and savory treat that pairs perfectly, adding a crispy accent that enhances the existing warm spices in the loaf.
- Caramel Drizzle: A gentle drizzle over warm slices will elevate the loaf, providing an indulgent touch that complements the spiced sweetness beautifully.
- Cinnamon-spiced Coffee: A comforting cup of this aromatic brew creates a match made in heaven, as it highlights the loaf’s flavors while warming you up.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Served alongside, this creamy delight will melt slightly into the warm loaf, creating a luscious blend that’s a true autumn indulgence.
Make Ahead Options
These Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf with a Cinnamon Sugar Crust are perfect for busy home cooks who want to save time during their week! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the wet and dry ingredients separately, storing them in the refrigerator, and combining them just before baking. Additionally, you can also slice the loaf and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze individual slices for up to 2 months. To maintain quality, let the loaf cool completely before wrapping. When ready to enjoy, simply toast slices or warm in the oven for that fresh-baked taste!
Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf Variations
Feel free to get creative with this delightful loaf and give it your own personalized twist!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a deliciously safe option.
- Nutty Addition: Toss in ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to enhance texture and flavor.
- Caramel Swirl: Drizzle caramel sauce into the batter before baking for a rich, dessert-like experience.
- Fruit Punch: Mix in 1 cup of diced apples or pears for extra moisture and fruitiness, making each slice even more special.
- Spice It Up: Swap out some of the ground cinnamon with fresh ginger or pumpkin spice for a zesty twist that sings autumn.
- Vegan Delight: Use flax eggs in place of regular eggs and replace butter with coconut oil for a delightful vegan version.
- Extra Sweet: Consider drizzling your loaf with a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk after cooling for that extra sweetness.
- Warmth of Orange: Add a tablespoon of orange zest for a citrusy brightness that perfectly complements the apple cider flavors.
Your baking adventure doesn’t have to stop here! Try pairing this loaf with some cinnamon-infused coffee or a cozy cup of tea. And if you’re craving more sweet treats, check out our Cinnamon Roll Honeybun or dive into the comforting tastes of Gluten Free Blender variations. Enjoy!
Storage Tips for Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf
Room Temperature: Store your Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain its delightful freshness.
Fridge: If you prefer to keep it longer, refrigerate the loaf for up to a week. Be sure it’s wrapped properly to prevent drying out.
Freezer: For even longer storage, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store them in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To enjoy the loaf warm, simply thaw slices in the fridge overnight, then reheat in the oven until warmed through, restoring that cozy, fresh-baked taste!
Expert Tips for Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf
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Avoid Overmixing: Gently fold the ingredients together until just combined to keep the texture light. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf.
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Cinnamon Sugar Coating: For better adherence, wait for the loaf to cool slightly before brushing it with melted butter and sprinkling on the cinnamon sugar.
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Flavor Variations: Feel free to swap ingredients! Use gluten-free flour for a suitable option or add in chopped apples or walnuts for an extra crunch.
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Glazing Idea: For a sweet twist, drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk over the cooled loaf, adding a delightful finish to the Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf.
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Storage Tips: Keep your loaf fresh! Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze slices wrapped in plastic for a cozy treat later on.
Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf with a Cinnamon Sugar Crust Recipe FAQs
What kind of apple cider should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using fresh, unfiltered apple cider enhances the flavor of your Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf, giving it that rich, autumnal taste. If fresh cider isn’t available, opt for a high-quality store-bought version. Avoid apple juice as it may alter the flavor profile significantly.
How should I store leftover donut loaf?
Store your Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week. Just make sure it’s well-wrapped to avoid drying out!
Can I freeze the Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf?
Certainly! To freeze, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a resealable freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven for a few minutes for that fresh-baked goodness!
What if my loaf doesn’t rise?
If your loaf doesn’t rise, double-check that your baking powder and baking soda are fresh—they’re essential for the leavening process. Also, make sure you don’t overmix the batter; doing so can lead to a dense loaf. Lastly, ensure your oven is preheated to the correct temperature before baking.
Are there any allergy considerations for this recipe?
Yes, it’s important to be mindful of potential allergens! This recipe contains gluten (in the flour) and eggs. For a gluten-free version, substitute a gluten-free flour blend. If you need an egg substitute, you can replace each egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water, allowed to sit for a few minutes). Always check ingredient labels for additional allergens, especially if serving to guests or family members with dietary restrictions.
Can I enhance the flavor even more?
Very! Feel free to personalize your Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf by adding chopped apples or nuts for extra texture. You might also consider swapping in different spices like ginger or pumpkin spice for a unique twist. Enjoy exploring new flavor profiles!
Irresistible Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf with Crunchy Crust
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan.
- In a bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice.
- In another bowl, melt the butter, then mix in granulated sugar, brown sugar, and eggs until smooth. Add apple cider and vanilla.
- Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined, then transfer to the prepared loaf pan.
- Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick.
- Once baked, cool in the pan for 5 to 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar.
- Slice while warm for best texture and taste, then enjoy with loved ones.
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