Name: Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf with Cinnamon Sugar Bliss
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder (fresh); 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice; 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted); 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 2 large eggs (or flax eggs for vegan option); 1 cup apple cider (or apple juice); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 2 tablespoons melted butter

As I stepped into my kitchen, the crisp autumn air swirled in, mingling with the warm, comforting scent of cinnamon and apples. It was the perfect time to whip up a Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf with a Cinnamon Sugar Crust, a treat that captures the essence of fall in every bite. This delightful loaf is not only incredibly simple to prepare—baking in under an hour—but it’s also a cozy dessert that brings everyone together. The crunchy topping adds a delightful donut-like finish, while the moist crumb infused with apple cider ensures it stays delightful for days. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just treating yourself, this recipe promises to elevate your snack game. Are you ready to dive into the warm, spiced goodness?

Why is this loaf a must-try?

Cozy Dessert: This Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf transforms the flavors of fall into a deliciously moist treat, perfect for any occasion.

Simple to Prepare: With minimal prep time and quick baking, you can enjoy this delightful dessert in under an hour.

Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The warm spices of cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice create an inviting aroma that will have everyone flocking to the kitchen.

Versatile Enjoyment: Serve it as a breakfast delight, an afternoon snack, or warmed with a drizzle of vanilla glaze for dessert—easy to adapt for any meal!

Freezer-Friendly: Bake a batch, slice, and freeze for up to 2 months. Enjoy the cozy flavors of autumn anytime with this incredible recipe. For another delicious idea, check out my Apple Zucchini Bread!

Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf Ingredients

For the Batter

All-Purpose Flour – Provides the structure needed for a moist loaf.
Baking Powder – Ensures the loaf rises beautifully; fresh is best for optimal results.
Baking Soda – Works with the acid from the apple cider to create a light texture.
Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
Ground Cinnamon – Infuses warmth and depth to your Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf.
Ground Nutmeg – Complements the spices with a rich, autumnal essence.
Ground Allspice – Adds a delightful spiced complexity that ties everything together.
Unsalted Butter – Makes the loaf rich and moist; swap for plant-based butter for a dairy-free option.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the loaf, creating a delightful taste.
Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and a hint of caramel flavor to the mix.
Eggs – Provide structure and moisture; use flax eggs for a vegan alternative.
Apple Cider – Infuses the loaf with a delicious apple flavor; apple juice or buttermilk can be substitutes.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile with a lovely aroma.

For the Topping

Granulated Sugar – Creates a sweet crust layer that adds texture.
Ground Cinnamon – Offers a rich, spiced finish to the loaf’s top.
Melted Butter – Helps the topping adhere beautifully to the loaf.

This Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf with a Cinnamon Sugar Crust is a delightful treat to embrace the season, perfect for sharing with loved ones!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf with a Cinnamon Sugar Crust

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and take out a 9×5-inch loaf pan. Grease and flour the pan to prevent the Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf from sticking. This step is crucial for achieving a beautifully cooked loaf that releases easily after baking, ensuring a perfect presentation.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and ground allspice. This blend of spices will infuse your loaf with rich autumn flavors. Make sure there are no lumps, as even distribution is important for a uniform rise in your Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the melted unsalted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and eggs until well blended and creamy. Then, stir in the apple cider and vanilla extract, mixing until the batter is smooth. This creamy mixture will add moisture and richness, perfectly complementing the dry ingredients in the next step.

Step 4: Bring It All Together
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula, being careful not to overmix. Mix just until combined, as this helps maintain a light texture in your Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf. Look for a thick batter with a few lumps; this indicates you’ve mixed just the right amount.

Step 5: Bake the Loaf
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top for even baking. Place it in the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. The top should be golden brown and spring back when gently pressed.

Step 6: Cool the Loaf
Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 5-10 minutes. This cooling period lets the loaf set and makes it easier to remove from the pan without breaking. Afterward, gently turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 7: Prepare the Topping
While the loaf cools, prepare the cinnamon sugar topping. In a small bowl, mix granulated sugar and ground cinnamon until well combined. This will create a sweet, spiced crust that enhances the dessert-like quality of your Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf.

Step 8: Add the Topping
Once the loaf has cooled slightly, brush the top with melted butter. Generously sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the top, allowing it to adhere beautifully. This final touch will give your loaf a donut-like crunch, elevating the flavor and texture to delightful new heights.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
Allow the loaf to cool further until it’s room temperature before slicing it. The Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf is best enjoyed warm, so pair it with a cup of coffee or tea for that cozy feel. Each slice reveals a moist crumb and a crunchy topping that’s simply irresistible!

How to Store and Freeze Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf

Room Temperature: Wrap the loaf in plastic wrap and store at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness without refrigeration.

Fridge: If you prefer a longer shelf life, refrigerate the loaf wrapped tightly for up to a week. This keeps it moist while extending its longevity.

Freezer: Slice the loaf and wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months, allowing you to enjoy the cozy flavors of fall anytime!

Reheating: Thaw slices in the fridge overnight, then warm in the microwave for a few seconds, or pop in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 8–10 minutes.

Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf Variations

Dive into creativity with your Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf! With aromatic options and delicious swaps, elevate your baking experience.

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a celiac-friendly version that still brings the cozy flavors of fall.
Dairy-Free: Use plant-based butter to create a delightful dairy-free treat, without sacrificing the richness you love in this loaf.
Vegan Twist: Replace eggs with flax eggs; mix one tablespoon of flaxseed meal with two and a half tablespoons of water—let it sit until it thickens.
Enhanced Flavor: Add chopped apples or walnuts to the batter. It gives this loaf an irresistible texture and amplifies the comforting taste of autumn.
Caramel Drizzle: For an indulgent treat, drench the warm loaf with caramel sauce before serving. The sweetness perfectly complements the spiced loaf.
Nutmeg Upgrade: Experiment with fresh grated nutmeg for a brighter, more aromatic flavor profile. Just a pinch can elevate your loaf to divine status.
Cinnamon Swirl: Create a delightful cinnamon-sugar swirl by layering half the batter, sprinkling with cinnamon-sugar, and topping with the remaining batter before baking.
Apple Cider Glaze: Finish with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and a splash of apple cider for added sweetness and shine that ties in beautifully with the flavors used in the loaf.

Let your baking be a joyful adventure! For another tasty recipe, try my warm and comforting Apple Zucchini Bread or how about some delicious Date Night Rigatoni?

Make Ahead Options

These Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loafs are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can mix the dry ingredients and store them in an airtight container up to 3 days in advance, ensuring you save precious time when craving a cozy dessert. Additionally, you can prepare the batter and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking; this helps deepen the flavor and maintain moisture. When you’re ready to bake, simply pour the chilled batter into the prepared pan and follow the final baking instructions. This way, you can enjoy the comforting taste of fall without the last-minute rush, making it just as delightful when you serve it!

Tips for the Best Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf

Avoid Overmixing: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mix. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf rather than the light texture we want for the Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf.
Keep Ingredients Fresh: Ensure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh. This helps the loaf rise properly, achieving that perfect fluffy crumb.
Add Extra Flavor: For a richer experience, consider adding chopped apples or nuts into the batter. This enhances the flavor and adds delightful texture to your loaf.
Perfect Storage: If you want to enjoy this loaf later, wrap slices in plastic wrap and freeze them for up to 2 months. Thaw and warm before serving for that fresh-baked taste.
Customize the Topping: Feel free to drizzle a vanilla or caramel glaze over the loaf after adding the cinnamon sugar topping. This extra touch will elevate the sweetness and presentation!

What to Serve with Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf?

As the lovely aroma of spiced apple cider wafts through your kitchen, picture a warm gathering of family and friends around the table, ready to savor a delicious meal together.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The smooth texture and buttery flavor perfectly balance the loaf’s sweetness.
Apple and Pecan Salad: Fresh crisp apples and crunchy pecans add a delightful contrast to the moist loaf.
Hot Mulled Cider: A seasonal drink that complements the flavors in your Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf beautifully.
Cinnamon Sugar Donuts: Reinforce that donut nostalgia with an additional sweet crunchy treat for dessert.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy ice cream pairs perfectly with the warmth of the loaf, enhancing the cozy experience.
Dark Chocolate Coffee: The rich caffeine blend amplifies the spiced notes, making for an elevated pairing.
Roasted Butternut Squash: Adds a savory depth with its natural sweetness, creating a fabulous contrast.
Ginger Snap Cookies: The spicy zing of ginger elevates the flavor connections within your loaf.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel over slices adds an extra layer of indulgence that no one can resist.
Chai Tea: Its aromatic spices harmonize with the flavors in the loaf, rounding out a comforting dining experience.

Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf with a Cinnamon Sugar Crust Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right apple cider for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, opt for a fresh, unfiltered apple cider. Look for cider that’s free from preservatives and has a rich, sweet apple flavor. If it’s cloudy and has a slight sediment at the bottom, it’s likely full of deliciousness!

How should I store the Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf?
To keep your loaf fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like it to last longer, refrigerate it, where it will remain tasty for up to a week.

Can I freeze the loaf, and if so, how?
Very! To freeze your Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf, slice it into individual pieces. Wrap each slice in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in an airtight freezer bag. This way, you can store them for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and warm each slice in the microwave or oven.

What if my loaf turns out dense?
If your loaf ends up dense, it’s likely due to overmixing the batter, which can create a heavy texture. To avoid this, gently fold dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined. Also, ensure your baking powder and soda are fresh for optimal leavening, contributing to a light, airy loaf.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Definitely! This Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf can be made vegan by substituting eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg) and using plant-based butter. Always double-check your ingredients for allergens specific to your dietary needs, especially if serving to guests.