Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf with Cinnamon Sugar Crust Recipe

Introduction

Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf brings the cozy flavors of fall into a simple, sliceable treat. With warm spices and a crunchy cinnamon sugar crust, this loaf is perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp ground nutmeg
• ½ tsp ground allspice
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup apple cider
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ¼ cup granulated sugar (for crust)
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon (for crust)
• 2 tbsp melted butter (for crust)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350 °F (175 °C). Grease and flour a 9×5‑inch loaf pan to prevent sticking.
2. Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice until evenly mixed.
3. Step 3: In a separate large bowl, whisk the melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and eggs until smooth and combined. Stir in the apple cider and vanilla extract.
4. Step 4: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the loaf tender.
5. Step 5: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 45–50 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.
6. Step 6: Allow the loaf to cool slightly in the pan. In a small bowl, mix the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon for the crust.
7. Step 7: Brush the top of the warm loaf with melted butter, then generously sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the top to create a sweet crust.
8. Step 8: Slice the loaf once cooled or warm, and enjoy on its own or with your favorite hot beverage.

Tips & Variations

• Swap apple cider with apple juice or buttermilk for a slight twist in flavor and texture.
• Add chopped apples or nuts to the batter for extra texture and interest.
• Use plant-based butter to make this loaf dairy-free.
• Drizzle with caramel sauce for an indulgent dessert version.

Storage

Store the loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, warm slices in the microwave for about 15 seconds or in a toaster oven until heated through.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh apple juice instead of apple cider?

Yes, fresh apple juice works well as a substitute and will keep the loaf moist with a mild apple flavor.

How do I know when the loaf is fully baked?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the loaf is done. If it has wet batter, bake for a few more minutes and check again.

Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf with Cinnamon Sugar Crust Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 115 reviews

This Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf is a moist and flavorful quick bread featuring warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice, combined with the sweet tang of apple cider. Topped with a crunchy cinnamon sugar crust for extra sweetness and texture, it’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a cozy dessert.

• Author: Kai
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
• Total Time: 60-65 minutes
• Yield: 8–10 slices 1x
• Category: Baking
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Dry Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp ground nutmeg
• ½ tsp ground allspice

Wet Ingredients

• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup apple cider
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Cinnamon Sugar Crust

• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 2 tbsp melted butter

Instructions

1. Prepare Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5‑inch loaf pan to prevent sticking and ensure easy loaf removal after baking.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice until well combined to evenly distribute the spices and leavening agents.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In another large bowl, whisk the melted butter with granulated sugar, brown sugar, and eggs until smooth and creamy. Stir in the apple cider and vanilla extract until the mixture is uniform.
4. Combine Mixtures: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture just until combined, being careful not to overmix to keep the loaf tender and light.
5. Bake the Loaf: Pour the prepared batter into the greased loaf pan. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating it’s cooked through.
6. Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Topping: While the loaf cools slightly, mix together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon for the topping.
7. Apply Topping: Brush the top of the warm loaf with melted butter, then sprinkle generously with the cinnamon sugar mixture to create a crunchy crust.
8. Serve: Slice the loaf and enjoy it warm or at room temperature for a delicious treat.

Notes

• You can substitute apple cider with apple juice or buttermilk, depending on availability and taste preference.
• For added texture and flavor, fold in chopped apples or nuts into the batter before baking.
• Use plant-based butter or margarine to make this recipe dairy-free.
• Drizzle the sliced loaf with caramel sauce for a decadent dessert variation.

Keywords: Apple cider donut loaf, spiced apple bread, cinnamon sugar crust, quick bread, fall desserts