Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf

Spiced apple cider donut loaf with a cinnamon sugar crust is the kind of autumn-inspired treat that turns any morning cozy. This recipe captures all the flavors you love from a classic apple cider donut but with less fuss than frying. With a tender crumb and a sugary crisp topping, it fits both casual brunches and holiday tables.

When I first baked this loaf it disappeared before it had even cooled. My family could not stop slicing off little pieces and coming back for more.

Gather Your Ingredients

• All-purpose flour: Essential for structure and a tender cake crumb. Choose a fresh bag for accurate measuring.
• Salt: Subtly balances the sweetness and brings out the spice flavors. Use fine sea salt for best mixing.
• Unsalted butter: Soft and rich base for moisture and flavor. Quality European style butter makes a noticeable difference here.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the loaf and forms the cinnamon sugar crust. Opt for organic cane sugar for extra flavor.
• Apple cider: Adds natural sweetness and big apple taste. Choose fresh spiced cider from the market for authentic flavor.
• Ground cinnamon: For the crust, delivers warmth and classic donut flavor. Pick true Ceylon cinnamon for a complex spice note.

How to Make It

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Make sure it is fully preheated so the loaf rises beautifully. Prepare a nine by five inch loaf pan with nonstick spray or baking parchment.

Cream Butter and Sugar:

Place softened butter and granulated sugar in a large bowl. Using a mixer, beat until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step takes about three to five minutes and creates an airy base.

Combine Dry Ingredients:

In another bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour and salt until they are very well blended. This prevents clumps of flour in the final loaf.

Mix the Wet Ingredients:

Pour the apple cider into the butter and sugar mixture. Gently mix until just combined. The cider should dissolve into the creamed mixture and boost the aroma.

Add Dry to Wet:

Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix on the lowest speed or by hand until just combined. Overmixing will make the loaf tough, so stop as soon as you see no streaks of flour.

Pour and Smooth:

Scrape the thick batter into the prepared loaf pan. Smooth the top with a spatula to ensure even baking.

Bake:

Place pan on the center rack and bake for thirty to forty five minutes. Insert a toothpick in the center to check for doneness. It should come out clean or with just a few crumbs.

Prepare Cinnamon Sugar:

While the loaf bakes, stir together granulated sugar and cinnamon for the crust in a small bowl. This fragrant mixture is ready when the loaf is still warm.

Cool and Coat:

After baking, let the loaf cool in the pan for ten to fifteen minutes. Gently remove it while still warm and immediately coat the surface all over with the cinnamon sugar mixture. Tilt the loaf and spoon sugar over until the whole crust sparkles.

The apple cider is my favorite part and I often taste it straight from the jug before baking. My kids love helping spoon sugar over the loaf, making it a hands-on family moment.

Flavor Boosters

For a spring twist add a half teaspoon lemon zest. For winter holidays, add a small pinch of nutmeg and clove to the cinnamon sugar topping. In summer, try using a pear cider instead of apple for a subtle change.

Serving Suggestions

Serve thick slices plain with morning coffee or tea. For extra indulgence, toast slices in a little butter on the stovetop or top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a simple dessert. Try pairing with hot mulled cider for a double dose of autumn.

Creative Twists

Feel free to swap out the flour for a cup for cup gluten-free blend with great results. If you are out of fresh apple cider, apple juice works in a pinch but add an extra pinch of cinnamon for flavor. If you prefer dairy alternatives, melted coconut oil can replace the butter though the flavor will be different.

I learned the hard way that letting the loaf cool too much before sugar coating leads to a patchy crust. Do not rush but do not wait either. The first bite will remind you why homemade is always best.

Common Questions About This Recipe

→ How do you achieve a moist texture in this loaf?

Using apple cider and creaming the butter with sugar creates a tender crumb and locks in moisture.

→ What's the best way to coat with cinnamon sugar?

After cooling the loaf for about 10 minutes, roll or sprinkle it with the cinnamon sugar mix while still warm.

→ Can you substitute ingredients for non-dairy needs?

Yes, plant-based butter and milk alternatives can be used with good results in this loaf.

→ How should you store leftovers?

Wrap the loaf tightly and keep at room temperature for up to three days to preserve softness and flavor.

→ Can you make this loaf ahead?

Yes, bake ahead and apply the cinnamon sugar crust just before serving for best freshness and crunch.