Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf With A Cinnamon Sugar Crust Recipe

Introduction

Enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of fall with this Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf. It’s moist, fragrant with cinnamon and spices, and finished with a delightful cinnamon sugar crust for that perfect sweet crunch.

Ingredients

• 1½ 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)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for crust)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang to make removal easier.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice until well combined.
3. Step 3: In a separate bowl, whisk the melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, apple cider, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth.
4. Step 4: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Gently fold with a spatula until just combined and no dry flour remains. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Step 5: Transfer the batter to the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 50–65 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted in the center comes out clean. If the top browns too fast, cover loosely with foil.
6. Step 6: Remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan on a wire rack for 10–15 minutes. Then, carefully lift it out using the parchment overhang and cool until just warm, about 15–20 minutes.
7. Step 7: While the loaf cools, mix ¼ cup granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon cinnamon in a shallow dish. Melt 4 tablespoons of butter separately.
8. Step 8: Brush all sides of the warm loaf generously with the melted butter. Immediately roll or sprinkle it in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated.
9. Step 9: Place the coated loaf back on the wire rack and let it cool completely to room temperature before slicing with a serrated knife. Serve and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

• For extra moistness, substitute half of the apple cider with applesauce.
• Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the batter for a crunchy texture.
• Use pumpkin pie spice as a variation to complement the autumn flavors.
• If you don’t have a loaf pan, this batter works well in muffin tins for spiced apple cider donuts.
• Make sure the loaf is warm but not hot when applying the cinnamon sugar crust to ensure it sticks well.

Storage

Store the loaf wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat slices gently in the microwave or oven to restore warmth and freshness.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh apple cider or store-bought?

Both fresh and store-bought apple cider work well in this recipe. Just be sure it is unsweetened for the best flavor balance.

How can I tell when the loaf is done baking?

The best way is to insert a wooden skewer or toothpick into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the loaf is ready. If the top is browning too fast, tent with foil to prevent burning.