Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf with a Cinnamon Sugar Crust

You know that feeling when you bite into a warm apple cider donut? Yeah, it’s pure happiness. Now imagine that, but in a soft, cozy loaf you can slice and enjoy anytime.

This Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf is packed with cinnamon, nutmeg, and sweet apple goodness. It’s like fall wrapped up in every bite. And oh, that crunchy sugar topping? So good.

The best part? It’s super easy to make. No frying, no fuss—just mix, bake, and enjoy. Your whole kitchen will smell amazing!

Ready to bake? Grab your ingredients, preheat the oven, and let’s make some magic. Trust me, you’re gonna love this one!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Apple Cider Flavored Heaven: The apple cider adds a lovely depth of flavor that makes this loaf feel like fall in a bite.
• Cinnamon Sugar Crust: The sugary crunch of the cinnamon sugar topping is the perfect contrast to the soft, moist loaf inside.
• Easy to Make: No need for complicated techniques—just mix, bake, and enjoy!
• Perfect for Fall and Beyond: While this is perfect for autumn, the comforting flavors of apple cider and spices make it great any time of year.
• Family Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this sweet, spiced loaf, whether served for breakfast or dessert.

Required Kitchen Tools

Here’s what you’ll need to make this flavorful loaf:

• Loaf Pan (9×5-inch): A standard loaf pan is perfect for this recipe, helping you achieve that lovely loaf shape.
• Mixing Bowls: Use a large mixing bowl for your dry ingredients and another for the wet ingredients.
• Whisk or Hand Mixer: A whisk works great to mix your dry ingredients, but you may want to use a hand mixer for the wet ingredients to get them perfectly smooth.
• Measuring Cups & Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to a perfect loaf.
• Cooling Rack: Once the loaf is baked, let it cool on a wire rack to prevent sogginess and help the flavor set.

Ingredients for Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf

Here’s what you’ll need to make this mouthwatering loaf (exact measurements are in the recipe card below):

• All-Purpose Flour: Provides the structure for the loaf.
• Baking Powder: Gives the loaf that fluffy, light texture.
• Baking Soda: Works with the acid from the apple cider to help the loaf rise.
• Cinnamon & Nutmeg: These spices are essential for that warm, fall flavor.
• Salt: Just a pinch to balance all the sweetness and spice.
• Unsalted Butter (Softened): Adds richness and moisture.
• Granulated Sugar: For sweetness and to help create a slightly crisp crust.
• Large Eggs: Acts as a binder and helps with the structure of the loaf.
• Apple Cider: The star ingredient that adds flavor and moisture.
• Sour Cream: Helps make the loaf soft and tender, adding that perfect texture.
• Vanilla Extract: For a touch of sweetness and depth.
• Melted Butter (for Topping): Adds shine and richness to the cinnamon-sugar topping.
• Cinnamon Sugar Mixture (for Topping): A blend of cinnamon and sugar that gives the loaf a sweet, crunchy crust.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour your 9×5-inch loaf pan to prevent the loaf from sticking once it’s baked.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Whisk them together until evenly mixed. Set this aside while you work on the wet ingredients.

3. Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a separate bowl, use a hand mixer or whisk to cream the unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until it’s light and fluffy. This will take about 2-3 minutes. The creaming process is important for ensuring that the loaf turns out tender and not too dense.

4. Add the Eggs and Wet Ingredients

Once the butter and sugar are fully creamed, add in the large eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then add the apple cider, sour cream, and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well combined, and the batter is smooth.

5. Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the loaf dense. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure everything is incorporated.

6. Transfer the Batter to the Pan

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Smooth the top of the batter to ensure even baking.

7. Bake the Loaf

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean. Baking times may vary slightly depending on your oven, so keep an eye on it toward the end.

Variations for Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf

• Add Chopped Apples: For extra apple flavor, chop up some fresh apples and fold them into the batter. It will add moisture and texture to each bite.
• Glazed Topping: For an extra indulgent treat, drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and apple cider over the top of the loaf instead of the cinnamon-sugar crust.
• Add Walnuts or Pecans: Chopped nuts would add a delightful crunch and flavor that pairs perfectly with the spiced loaf.
• Vegan Version: Replace the butter with a plant-based alternative and use flax eggs instead of regular eggs for a vegan version of this loaf.

8. Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Crust

While the loaf is baking, prepare the cinnamon sugar mixture for the topping. In a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon. Stir until well mixed. This mixture will give the loaf that irresistible crunchy topping that makes every slice feel like an apple cider donut.

9. Check for Doneness

Once your loaf has finished baking, test it with a toothpick or cake tester. Insert it into the center of the loaf, and if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, your loaf is done. If it’s still wet, return the loaf to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, checking every few minutes.

10. Cool the Loaf

Once the loaf is fully baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Afterward, carefully remove the loaf from the pan and place it on a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial to avoid sogginess, and it will help the loaf set properly, making it easier to slice.

11. Coat the Loaf with Cinnamon Sugar

When the loaf is just slightly warm (but not hot), brush the top with melted butter. This will help the cinnamon sugar mixture stick to the loaf, giving it a glossy finish. After brushing with butter, generously sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the top of the loaf. Make sure the entire surface is covered to get that perfect cinnamon-sugar crunch with every slice.

12. Slice and Serve

Now that your loaf is perfectly coated with cinnamon sugar, slice it into thick pieces, and you’re ready to serve! This loaf is best enjoyed slightly warm, but it’s just as delicious at room temperature. The crunchy exterior contrasts beautifully with the soft, spiced interior.

How to Serve Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf

This loaf is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways:

• As a Breakfast Treat: Serve it alongside your morning coffee or tea. It’s a great way to start the day with a touch of sweetness and spice.
• For Dessert: Top a slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an easy, comforting dessert.
• For Brunch or Snacks: Serve it at brunch or as an afternoon snack with a hot cup of cider or spiced tea.
• As a Gift: This loaf makes a lovely homemade gift. Wrap it in parchment paper or place it in a decorative box to give it to friends and family during the fall season.

Storing Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf

• Room Temperature: You can store the loaf at room temperature for up to 3 days. Just make sure it’s wrapped in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
• Refrigeration: If you plan to keep the loaf longer than 3 days, it’s best to refrigerate it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to a week.
• Freezing: You can freeze this loaf for up to 2 months. To freeze, slice it first and wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. This makes it easy to pull out a slice whenever you’re craving a treat.

Nutrition Information (Approximate)

Here’s the nutritional breakdown for each serving of this delicious loaf (based on 12 servings per loaf):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	250 kcal
Total Fat	12g
Saturated Fat	7g
Cholesterol	35mg
Sodium	110mg
Total Carbohydrates	35g
Dietary Fiber	1g
Sugars	18g
Protein	3g

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, be sure to mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can result in a dense loaf.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: For the best texture, ensure that the butter and eggs are at room temperature before mixing them. This helps them combine more easily and evenly.
• Measuring Flour: When measuring flour, spoon it into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife. Don’t scoop directly from the bag, as this can lead to too much flour in the recipe, resulting in a dry loaf.
• Check Doneness Early: Every oven is different, so keep an eye on the loaf toward the end of the baking time. If you notice the top is getting too dark, you can cover it loosely with foil to prevent over-browning.

Conclusion

There you have it! This Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf with a Cinnamon Sugar Crust is the ultimate fall treat that combines the warm, comforting flavors of apple cider, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a moist, tender loaf. The cinnamon-sugar crust adds a delightful crunch, making each slice irresistible. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and perfect for sharing with loved ones during the fall season or any time you’re craving a little cozy indulgence.

This loaf is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, and it makes an excellent gift for friends and family. The best part? It’s simple to store and freezes beautifully, so you can enjoy a slice whenever the mood strikes. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to use up apple cider if you happen to have some left over from other fall recipes.

Don’t wait! Preheat that oven, grab your ingredients, and treat yourself (and others) to this delicious, spiced loaf. I promise you won’t regret it!

Recipe Card

Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf with a Cinnamon Sugar Crust
Yield: 12 slices
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Bake Time: 60-70 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Related FAQ

Can I use fresh apple juice instead of apple cider?

Yes, you can substitute apple juice for apple cider, though it will result in a slightly less intense apple flavor.

Can I make this loaf without sour cream?

If you don’t have sour cream, you can use plain yogurt as a substitute for a similar texture and tang.

How long does this loaf stay fresh?

The loaf stays fresh for about 3 days at room temperature when wrapped in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container. You can also refrigerate it for up to a week.

Can I freeze the loaf?

Yes, you can freeze the loaf for up to 2 months. Slice it first, then wrap each slice in plastic wrap before placing it in a freezer bag for easy individual servings.