This Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf is like a cozy hug in bread form, filled with warm spices and a gentle apple cider flavor throughout. It’s soft and tender with just the right hint of cinnamon and nutmeg that reminds you of crisp fall days and sweet treats at the same time.
I love making this loaf when the weather starts to cool down because it fills the house with that wonderful cider smell that makes me want to slow down and enjoy the moment. What’s great is how easy it is to bake – you get all the deliciousness of donuts without having to fry anything. I usually grab a slice right out of the oven and spread a little butter on top for the perfect simple snack.
Serving it warm with a cup of tea or coffee is my favorite way to enjoy this loaf. It’s great for breakfast or as a cozy afternoon pick-me-up. Friends always ask for the recipe when they taste it, and I tell them it’s all about the apple cider magic and the comforting spices. This loaf makes any day feel a bit more special.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apple cider: This adds moisture and a gentle tangy sweetness that’s unique to this loaf. If you don’t have cider, you can use apple juice or a mix of water with a splash of apple vinegar.
Spices: Cinnamon and nutmeg are must-haves for that classic cozy flavor. Cloves and allspice add extra warmth but can be left out if you prefer a simpler spice profile.
Sugars: The mix of granulated and brown sugar gives sweetness plus a touch of molasses flavor. You can swap brown sugar for coconut sugar or maple syrup, but expect a slight change in texture and taste.
Chopped apples (optional): These add a lovely texture and fresh bursts of apple flavor. If you want a chunkier loaf, I recommend tossing them with a little flour to prevent sinking.
How Do You Get That Perfect Cinnamon-Sugar Coating on the Loaf?
This coating is a signature feature that makes the loaf feel like a donut. The key is to apply it while the loaf is still warm but not hot. Here’s what I do:
- Mix cinnamon and sugar in a shallow bowl, keeping the ratio around 3:1 sugar to cinnamon for sweetness.
- Brush the warm loaf generously with melted butter all over so the sugar mixture sticks well.
- Roll the loaf or sprinkle cinnamon-sugar evenly over the buttered surface. Don’t be shy — a thick coating gives the best flavor and crunch.
- Let it cool so the sugar coating sets into a lightly crisp shell before slicing.
This step adds that sweet, slightly crunchy exterior like the outside of a cider donut. It’s worth the extra few minutes to do it right!
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×5-inch loaf pan – I like this size because it gives the perfect shape and makes slicing easy.
- Mixing bowls – you’ll need one large for dry ingredients and one for wet. I find it handy to keep things organized.
- Whisk or wooden spoon – makes mixing the ingredients smooth and snag-free.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get accurate amounts, especially for spices and liquids.
- Bristle brush – for spreading the butter glaze over the warm loaf, ensuring even coverage.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Mix in chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch and a nutty flavor; they complement the spices well.
- Substitute maple syrup for part of the sugars to add a deeper, sweet richness.
- Add a handful of shredded carrots or zucchini for extra moisture and texture.
- Use ginger powder or a dash of allspice instead of cloves for a slightly different spice profile that still feels cozy.
Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Loaf:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup apple cider
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil or melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: 1/2 cup finely chopped apples (for extra texture)
For The Coating:
- 3 tablespoons melted butter
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus 45-55 minutes for baking. Allow an additional 10-15 minutes for cooling and applying the cinnamon-sugar coating. Overall, set aside about 1 hour 20 minutes from start to finish to enjoy this warm and delicious loaf.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Oven and Pan:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan well or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Mixing Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and allspice. Make sure everything is evenly combined.
3. Combining Wet Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs. Add the apple cider, vegetable oil or melted butter, and vanilla extract. Stir everything together until smooth.
4. Mixing the Batter:
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients. Gently fold them together until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep the loaf tender. If you’d like some texture, fold in the finely chopped apples now.
5. Baking the Loaf:
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Place it in the oven and bake for 45-55 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Preparing the Cinnamon-Sugar Coating:
While the loaf bakes, mix melted butter, granulated sugar, and cinnamon in a shallow bowl. This will create the sugary coating that makes this loaf feel like a cider donut.
7. Coating the Warm Loaf:
When the loaf is finished, let it cool for about 10 minutes in the pan. Then carefully turn it out onto a wire rack. While the loaf is still warm, brush it all over with the melted butter mixture. Sprinkle generously with the cinnamon-sugar mix to cover the outside thoroughly.
8. Finishing Up:
Let the loaf cool completely so the sugary coating can set well before slicing. Or, enjoy a warm slice right away for a cozy, comforting treat.
Can I Use Frozen Apple Cider for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw it completely in the fridge or at room temperature before using. Shake or stir it well if it has separated during freezing.
How Should I Store Leftover Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf?
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the fridge for up to a week. Reheat slices gently in the microwave or toaster oven for a warm treat.
Can I Substitute Apples for Pears or Other Fruits?
Absolutely! Pears or even diced peaches work well as alternatives. Just make sure to chop them finely and toss them in a little flour before folding into the batter to prevent sinking.
Is It Okay to Skip the Cinnamon-Sugar Coating?
Yes! The loaf will still taste delicious without it, though the coating adds that classic cider-donut crunch and sweetness. You can also brush with melted butter or a simple glaze if you prefer.