Fall is the perfect time to bring warmth and comfort into your kitchen, and nothing does that quite like a spiced apple cider donut loaf. This recipe is packed with cozy autumn flavors and just the right amount of spice to make your home smell amazing while you bake. Whether you're serving it for breakfast or an afternoon treat, this loaf is sure to become a seasonal favorite.
You'll love how simple it is to make this spiced apple cider donut loaf with everyday ingredients. The tender crumb soaked with apple cider and the cinnamon sugar topping make every bite a little celebration of fall. Let me guide you through this easy, delicious recipe that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Deliciously moist and tender with real apple cider flavor
- Warm, inviting blend of fall spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves
- Simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry
- Quick to prepare and bakes in under an hour
- Perfect for breakfast, snack, or dessert during the cozy season
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to create your spiced apple cider donut loaf, full of fall flavor and a cinnamon sugar glaze for that classic donut finish.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 3/4 cup apple cider, preferably fresh
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
- For the glaze: 1 cup powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons apple cider, 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- For the topping: 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
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Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Servings: 8 slices
- Calories: Approximately 320 per serving
How to Make Cozy Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf: A Fall Treat to Savor!
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan with butter or nonstick spray.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt until evenly combined.
- In a large bowl, whisk the melted butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Alternate adding the dry ingredients and apple cider to the wet mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Fold in the sour cream until just combined—do not overmix.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown.
- While the loaf cools for 10 minutes, mix the glaze ingredients in a small bowl until smooth.
- Remove the loaf from the pan and transfer to a wire rack placed over a baking sheet. Spoon the glaze evenly over the warm loaf and let it drip down the sides.
- Mix the cinnamon sugar topping and sprinkle it generously over the glaze before it sets, adding that classic donut crunch and sweetness.
- Allow the loaf to cool completely before slicing. Enjoy warm or at room temperature with a cup of tea or coffee.
Tips for the Best Results
- Use fresh apple cider for the brightest, most authentic flavor in your loaf.
- Measure your flour correctly by spooning it into the cup and leveling it off to avoid a dense texture.
- Don’t overmix the batter to keep the loaf tender and light.
- Allow the loaf to cool slightly before glazing so the glaze sets nicely without soaking in too much.
- For extra spice, add a pinch of ground ginger or allspice to the dry ingredients.
Storage and Reheating
Store your spiced apple cider donut loaf wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the loaf wrapped in foil and plastic wrap for up to 2 months.
To reheat, thaw frozen slices overnight in the fridge, then warm gently in a microwave for 20-30 seconds or in a toaster oven at 300°F until heated through. This will refresh the flavors and soften the glaze slightly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use apple juice instead of apple cider?
Yes, you can substitute apple juice if you don’t have apple cider, but cider has a richer, spiced flavor that enhances the loaf’s taste. Consider adding a pinch of cinnamon to the juice for a similar effect.
Is this loaf gluten-free?
This recipe uses all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. To make it gluten-free, try a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend, but texture and rise may vary slightly.
Can I make this loaf dairy-free?
Yes, replace the butter with a dairy-free margarine or coconut oil and use a dairy-free yogurt or sour cream alternative. The flavor will remain deliciously cozy.
How do I know when the loaf is done baking?
Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the loaf is done. The top should also be golden brown and spring back when lightly pressed.