Bake the Best Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf This Fall!

Autumn has a way of bringing out the coziest flavors, and the Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf is a true embodiment of the season’s charm. Imagine sinking your teeth into a slice of this moist, aromatic bread, infused with the warm spices of cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice, and the comforting sweetness of apple cider. It’s a recipe that will fill your kitchen with the irresistible scents of fall and have your family and friends eagerly awaiting their turn for a slice.

Table of Contents

Ingredients for the Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf

• 1½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ½ teaspoon ground allspice
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup packed brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup apple cider
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cinnamon Sugar Topping:

• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons reserved apple cider
• 1 tablespoon softened butter

The key ingredients that make this Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf so special are the apple cider and the warm spices. The apple cider adds a delightful fruity sweetness, while the cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice create a cozy, autumnal flavor profile that’s simply irresistible. The melted butter and combination of granulated and brown sugars ensure a moist and tender crumb, making every bite a delightful experience.

Instructions for Baking the Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan. This will help ensure your Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf releases easily from the pan once baked.

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice. This dry ingredient mixture will provide the foundation for the loaf’s structure and spiced flavor.

In a large bowl, beat together the melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, apple cider, and vanilla extract until smooth. This wet ingredient blend will bring the moist, sweet, and apple-forward notes to the recipe.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a dense, tough loaf. Gently fold the batter together until it’s beautifully homogenized.

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma wafting through your kitchen during this time will have everyone eagerly awaiting a slice.

While the Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf is baking, prepare the cinnamon sugar topping. In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. In another small bowl, combine the reserved apple cider and softened butter.

Once the loaf is done, allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, remove it from the pan and brush the top with the apple cider-butter mixture. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar topping generously over the top, ensuring every bite is coated in that sweet, spiced goodness.

Slice and serve this warm, fragrant Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf to your family and friends. It’s the perfect accompaniment to a cozy cup of coffee or tea, and it’s sure to become a staple in your fall baking repertoire.

Tips for the Perfect Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf

To ensure your Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf turns out moist and flavorful, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Use a high-quality apple cider: The apple cider is the star of this recipe, so opt for a fresh, unfiltered cider for the best flavor. Avoid using apple juice, as it won’t provide the same depth of apple taste.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Overmixing can lead to a dense, tough loaf. Gently fold the dry and wet ingredients together until just combined.
• Experiment with spices: While the cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice create a classic autumnal flavor, you can try adding a pinch of ginger or cardamom for a unique twist.
• Consider add-ins: Fold in chopped apples, dried cranberries, or toasted nuts for extra texture and flavor.
• Store leftovers properly: Keep the Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf wrapped in foil or an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. You can also freeze slices for longer storage.

Serving Suggestions for the Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf

This Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf is a true autumn delight that pairs beautifully with a variety of beverages and can be enjoyed in multiple ways:

• Warm with a pat of butter: Serve a slice of the loaf warm, with a melty pat of butter for a comforting, indulgent treat.
• Alongside a cup of coffee or tea: The spiced flavors of the loaf complement the bold notes of coffee or the soothing warmth of a cozy tea.
• As a dessert or afternoon snack: Enjoy a slice of the Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf as a sweet ending to a meal or with a cup of hot apple cider for a perfect fall pick-me-up.
• Incorporated into fall gatherings: This loaf makes a wonderful addition to holiday celebrations, potlucks, or cozy autumn get-togethers with friends and family.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Cinnamon Swirl Donut Loaf
• Spiced Peach Bread
• Peach Bread Pudding
• Peach Pecan Bread

FAQs About the Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf

How can I enhance the flavor of my Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf?

To enhance the flavor of your Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf, consider adding a splash of freshly squeezed orange juice or zest for a citrusy twist. You can also incorporate finely chopped apples or even dried fruits like cranberries for added texture and sweetness. Experimenting with different spices, such as cardamom or ginger, can also elevate the flavor profile. Additionally, using a high-quality apple cider will significantly impact the overall taste, so opt for a fresh, unfiltered cider if possible.

Can I make mini loaves or muffins from this recipe?

Yes, you can definitely make mini loaves or muffins from the Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf recipe! If you choose to make muffins, fill each muffin cup about two-thirds full with the batter and bake at the same temperature for approximately 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. For mini loaves, reduce the baking time to about 30-40 minutes, depending on the size of your pans. Keep an eye on them to prevent overbaking.

What should I do if my loaf is too dense?

If your Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf turns out too dense, it may be due to overmixing or using too much flour. To avoid this, gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined. Make sure to spoon and level your flour when measuring to avoid excess flour in the batter. Additionally, incorporating more liquid (like apple cider) or an extra egg can help improve the texture. If you suspect your baking powder or baking soda might be old, replace them to ensure proper leavening.

How can I make a glaze to top my Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf?

To make a delicious glaze for your Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf, combine powdered sugar with a few tablespoons of apple cider in a mixing bowl. Start with about 1 cup of powdered sugar and gradually add the cider until you reach your desired consistency. You can also add a pinch of cinnamon or vanilla extract for extra flavor. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled loaf before serving for a sweet, finishing touch that complements the spiced flavors beautifully.

Get ready to savor the cozy, autumnal flavors of the Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf! This recipe is a true delight for the senses and is sure to become a new fall favorite in your home. Happy baking, and don’t forget to share your creations with us on social media using the hashtag #FallBakingInspiration.

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