Fall is here, and you know what that means—apple cider, cozy sweaters, and the irresistible aroma of baked goods wafting through the kitchen. If you’re looking for the ultimate treat that blends the warm flavors of autumn with a touch of sweetness, Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf with a Cinnamon Sugar Crust is your answer. Imagine biting into a soft, moist loaf infused with apple cider and spices, topped with a crunchy cinnamon sugar crust that makes each slice feel like a hug in food form. Sounds heavenly, right? Let’s dive into making this seasonal favorite together.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you need to bring this loaf to life:
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon cinnamon
¼ teaspoon nutmeg
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
¾ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
½ cup apple cider
½ cup sour cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping)
¼ cup cinnamon sugar mixture (for topping)
Prep Time, Cook Time, and Servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50-55 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 8-10 slices
Preheat the Oven for Perfect Loaf
Before doing anything else, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). A well-preheated oven ensures your loaf rises evenly and gets that golden crust we all love. Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan and set aside. Think of this step like warming up a car in winter—it sets the stage for a smooth journey ahead.
Preparing Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together:
All-purpose flour
Baking powder
Baking soda
Cinnamon
Nutmeg
Salt
Whisking ensures that the spices are evenly distributed, so every bite carries a consistent flavor.
Creaming Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This step is crucial—it incorporates air into the mixture, giving your loaf a tender, moist texture. Imagine it like adding clouds to a sky—soft and airy makes all the difference.
Mixing Wet and Dry Ingredients
Next, add the apple cider, sour cream, and vanilla extract to the wet mixture. Mix until combined. Gradually fold in the dry ingredients, mixing just until incorporated. Important: do not overmix; otherwise, your loaf may become dense. Think of this as a gentle handshake with the ingredients—you want them acquainted, not overwhelmed.
Baking Your Loaf
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 50-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. During this time, the kitchen will fill with the sweet scent of cinnamon and apple cider—a smell that instantly makes fall feel magical.
Cooling and Adding the Topping
Once baked, let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. While still warm, brush the top with melted butter and generously sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture. This creates that signature cinnamon sugar crust reminiscent of your favorite apple cider donuts.
Serving Tips
Slice your loaf once cooled completely to maintain its shape. Pair it with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or even apple cider for a perfect fall treat. For extra flair, serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Storing Your Loaf
Store your Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf with a Cinnamon Sugar Crust in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap tightly and refrigerate up to a week, or freeze for up to 2 months.
Variations and Flavor Twists
Want to switch things up? Try adding:
Chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans) for crunch
Dried cranberries or raisins for a fruity touch
A glaze made from powdered sugar and apple cider for extra sweetness
Each variation keeps the base recipe intact but adds new dimensions of flavor.
Healthier Substitutions
You can make small swaps to lighten the loaf without losing flavor:
Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream
Swap half of the flour with whole wheat flour
Reduce sugar slightly and add a touch of honey or maple syrup
These substitutions keep the loaf moist and delicious while making it a bit healthier.
Why This Recipe Works
The secret to this loaf is the perfect balance of wet and dry ingredients, along with the cinnamon sugar topping. The apple cider adds a subtle tang, while the sour cream keeps it moist. The gentle folding technique prevents a dense texture, and the topping gives that signature donut-like crunch we crave.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
The Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf with a Cinnamon Sugar Crust isn’t just a dessert—it’s an experience. From the aroma that fills your kitchen to the soft, spiced bite topped with a sweet crust, every step is a little moment of joy. Whether for a cozy morning treat or a special dessert, this loaf is a must-try for anyone who loves the flavors of fall.
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh apple juice instead of apple cider?
Yes! Fresh apple juice works, but the flavor may be slightly sweeter and less tangy than traditional apple cider.
2. Can I make this loaf gluten-free?
Absolutely. Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend, but ensure it includes xanthan gum for structure.
3. Can I make mini loaves or muffins with this recipe?
Yes, divide the batter into greased muffin tins and bake for 20-25 minutes, checking with a toothpick.
4. How do I prevent the cinnamon sugar topping from soaking in?
Brush the loaf with melted butter while it’s still warm, then sprinkle the cinnamon sugar generously. This helps create a slight crust instead of it soaking in.
5. Can this loaf be frozen?
Yes, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
