Name: Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf with a Crunchy Sugar Crust
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (substitute with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version); 2 teaspoons Baking Powder; 1 te teaspoon Baking Soda; 1 teaspoon Salt; 2 teaspoons Ground Cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg; 1/2 teaspoon Ground Allspice; 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (melted) (substitute with plant-based butter for dairy-free); 1 cup Granulated Sugar; 1/2 cup Brown Sugar; 2 large Eggs; 1 cup Apple Cider (can be substituted with apple juice or buttermilk); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract; 1/4 cup Granulated Sugar (for topping); 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (for sprinkling); 2 tablespoons Melted Butter (to help the sugar stick)

As the air turns crisp and the leaves begin their colorful dance, I always find myself craving the warm, comforting flavors of fall. Enter the Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf with a Cinnamon Sugar Crust—a delightful fusion of soft, tender cake and that nostalgic crunch from a perfect cinnamon-sugar topping. This loaf is not only incredibly easy to whip up, but it also captures the essence of autumn in each moist slice. Whether you’re looking for a cozy breakfast treat, a sweet afternoon snack, or something special to share with friends at your next gathering, this recipe delivers on all fronts. Plus, it’s freezer-friendly and easily adaptable for gluten-free and dairy-free diets, ensuring everyone can indulge. Are you ready to fill your kitchen with the scent of spiced goodness? Let’s dive in!

Why is This Loaf So Irresistible?

Warm, Cozy Flavors: The blend of apple cider, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice creates a delightful aroma that instantly evokes fall.

Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip this loaf up in no time, making it perfect for busy bakers.

Versatile Delight: This recipe is adaptable! Whether you prefer it gluten-free or dairy-free, substitutions are easy to make for a delicious result.

Freezer-Friendly: Bake ahead and store slices in the freezer for a quick treat—just warm them up before serving!

Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: The crunchy cinnamon sugar crust adds the perfect finishing touch, reminiscent of your favorite bakery donuts, ensuring everyone will come back for seconds.

For more seasonal delights, try out these Cinnamon Roll Sugar cookies or warm up with a slice of Apple Crumble Cheesecake!

Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf Ingredients

For the Loaf
• All-Purpose Flour – Structure; substitute with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
• Baking Powder – Acts as the leavening agent for fluffiness.
• Baking Soda – Provides additional leavening to help the loaf rise.
• Salt – Enhances overall flavor.
• Ground Cinnamon – Infuses warm spice for delicious flavor.
• Ground Nutmeg – Adds an extra layer of warmth and complexity.
• Ground Allspice – Complements cinnamon and nutmeg for a balanced taste.
• Unsalted Butter (melted) – Brings richness and moisture; substitute with plant-based butter for dairy-free.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetness for the loaf.
• Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and a deeper flavor profile.
• Eggs – Acts as a binding agent for structure.
• Apple Cider – Provides moisture and flavor; can be substituted with apple juice or buttermilk if necessary.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor.

For the Cinnamon Sugar Crust
• Granulated Sugar – A sweet topping that adds crunch.
• Ground Cinnamon – Flavorful spice for sprinkling on top.
• Melted Butter – Enhances the crunch and helps the cinnamon sugar stick.

This Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf can be a delightful addition to your autumn baking repertoire!

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

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and take a moment to grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with a little butter or non-stick spray. This ensures your Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf releases easily after baking. While the oven heats up, gather your ingredients so you’re ready for the mixing stages ahead.

Step 2: Whisk the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice. Use a whisk to blend everything together thoroughly, giving it a good aeration. You should see a light, fluffy mixture that blends beautifully—a perfect foundation for your loaf that will add warmth and flavor.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, mix together the melted unsalted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and eggs until smooth and well combined. Gradually stir in the apple cider and vanilla extract, ensuring everything is mixed evenly. The melted butter adds richness, and the apple cider infuses the batter with that cozy autumn flavor, making your Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf scrumptious.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gently fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients using a spatula or wooden spoon. Be careful not to overmix; you’re aiming for just combined, which keeps your loaf tender and light. As the batter comes together, you’ll notice a beautiful consistency that’s perfect for pouring into the prepared pan.

Step 5: Bake the Loaf
Pour the batter into the greased loaf pan, smoothing the top for an even bake. Place it in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown. The delightful aroma wafting through your kitchen will make it hard to wait!

Step 6: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Topping
While your loaf cools slightly, mix together granulated sugar and ground cinnamon in a small bowl for the topping. This sweet mixture will give your Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf that signature crunchy crust. When the loaf is warm, brush the top generously with melted butter to help the cinnamon sugar adhere.

Step 7: Add the Topping and Cool
Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the buttery top of your loaf, ensuring it gets coated generously for a lovely crust. Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for about 5-10 minutes, which helps it firm up and makes slicing easier. Enjoy the anticipation as your kitchen fills with the scent of cinnamon and apple goodness!

Step 8: Slice and Serve
After cooling briefly, carefully transfer the loaf to a wire rack or cutting board. Slice into thick, generous pieces and serve warm. Each slice of your Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf with a Cinnamon Sugar Crust is an invitation to savor the flavors of fall, making it perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying a quiet moment to yourself.

Make Ahead Options

These Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf with a Cinnamon Sugar Crust are perfect for busy home cooks who love to meal prep! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance, simply mixing the wet and dry ingredients separately and storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, just combine the mixtures and pour them into your greased loaf pan. The loaf can also be baked and stored at room temperature for up to 3 days, or kept refrigerated for a week. For longer storage, wrap slices tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. To maintain that delightful moist texture and crunchy crust, reheat the slices in a preheated oven for a few minutes before serving—just as delicious as when freshly made!

What to Serve with Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf?

As you savor each slice of this delightful loaf, consider complementing it with these delicious options for a truly memorable meal.

Coffee or Tea: The comforting warmth of a freshly brewed cup brings out the rich flavors of the loaf, making it an ideal pairing to start your day.
Creamy Yogurt: A dollop of Greek yogurt adds a luscious creaminess that balances the spiced sweetness, while offering a refreshing contrast to the crunchy crust.
Warm Applesauce: Serve a side of warm applesauce for a cozy, autumn-inspired touch that enhances the apple cider notes in your loaf.
Cinnamon Sugar Roasted Pecans: These crunchy, sweet delights echo the flavors of the loaf and provide an irresistible texture contrast with every bite.
Maple Syrup Drizzle: A light drizzle of real maple syrup over a slice takes this loaf to the next level, enhancing its sweetness and adding a touch of decadence.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: For the ultimate fall experience, pair it with a seasonal pumpkin spice latte—warm, sweet, and cinnamon-spiced, just like your loaf.

Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf Variations

Feel free to personalize this delightful loaf to match your taste preferences and dietary needs!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a delicious alternative that everyone can enjoy.
Dairy-Free: Swap melted butter with plant-based butter or coconut oil to accommodate dairy-free diets. You’ll achieve that rich flavor without compromise!
Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a crunchy texture that enhances the flavor profile beautifully. The nuts offer a lovely contrast to the soft loaf.
Extra Spice: Boost the warm spices by adding a pinch of ground ginger or cardamom for a fragrant and flavorful twist, making each bite feel even cozier.
Fruit Fest: Fold in some finely chopped apples or dried fruits for added sweetness and a pop of fruity flavor throughout the loaf. Every slice will be bursting with delightful surprises!
Caramel Drizzle: Turn your loaf into a decadent dessert by drizzling warm caramel sauce over the top after baking. The sweet sauce complements the spiced loaf perfectly.
Apple Juice Substitute: If you can’t find apple cider, using apple juice works great, or opt for buttermilk for a subtle tangy flavor that complements the spices well.
Sweet Variants: Try sprinkling crushed graham crackers or oats mixed with sugar on top for an unexpected crunchy topping that brings a new texture dimension.

For more delightful recipes, indulge in these Cinnamon Roll Sugar cookies or enjoy a slice of Apple Crumble Cheesecake to experience the cozy flavors of fall!

Expert Tips for Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf

Avoid Overmixing: Ensure a light texture by mixing just until combined; overmixing can lead to a dense loaf.

Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Having your butter, eggs, and apple cider at room temperature helps create a smoother batter and better rise.

Check for Doneness: Always use a toothpick inserted into the center; if it comes out clean, your Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf is ready to enjoy!

Customize Your Mix-Ins: Feel free to add chopped apples or nuts for extra flavor and texture. Just remember to adjust the wet ingredients slightly if needed.

Store Correctly: For freshness, store the loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for later enjoyment.

How to Store and Freeze Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf

Room Temperature: Store the loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps it moist and ready to enjoy!

Fridge: For longer freshness, place the loaf in the refrigerator, where it can last up to a week. Just be aware that refrigeration may slightly alter the texture.

Freezer: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight or warm in the oven before serving.

Reheating: To reheat, place slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through, ensuring your Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf is deliciously soft again!

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

What kind of apple cider should I use?
Absolutely, using fresh, unfiltered apple cider yields the best flavor! Look for cider that is cloudy and contains no preservatives for the most authentic taste. If you can’t find cider, you can use apple juice or buttermilk as a substitute, but the flavor will be slightly different.

How do I store the Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf?
I recommend storing the loaf in an airtight container at room temperature, where it will stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, placing it in the fridge will extend its shelf life to a week, though the texture may change slightly.

Can I freeze the loaf, and how?
Certainly! To freeze your Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf, first let it cool completely. Then, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the fridge overnight or pop slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

What if my loaf is too dense?
Very often, a dense loaf is due to overmixing the batter. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture just until combined. If you notice your loaf is still dense, check that your leavening agents (baking powder and baking soda) are fresh, as old ingredients can affect rise!

Is this recipe suitable for allergies or dietary restrictions?
Yes, this Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf is quite flexible! To make it gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. For a dairy-free option, use plant-based butter instead of regular butter. Additionally, always double-check any add-ins you choose to ensure they align with your dietary needs.

How long can I keep it in the freezer?
You can enjoy your frozen Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf slices for up to 2 months. Just make sure to wrap them well to avoid freezer burn. When you’re ready, a quick warm-up in the oven will restore that delightful taste and texture!