Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf with a Cinnamon Sugar Crust Recipe

There is something magically comforting about the Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf with a Cinnamon Sugar Crust that instantly evokes cozy autumn mornings and sweet, nostalgic memories. This loaf captures all the best flavors of a classic apple cider donut but with a soft, tender crumb wrapped in a crunchy, cinnamon sugar crust that’s simply irresistible. Each bite delivers a perfect balance of warm spices, rich apple cider, and that delightful sugary finish that makes it a seasonal favorite you’ll want to make again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf with a Cinnamon Sugar Crust is all about approachable, staple ingredients that work harmoniously to create its signature flavor and texture. Every component, from the warm spices to the apple cider, plays a crucial role in making this loaf a standout treat.

• All-purpose flour: The base that gives the loaf structure and a soft crumb.
• Baking powder and baking soda: Essential leavening agents to help the loaf rise perfectly light and fluffy.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
• Ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice: These warm spices bring the cozy autumn essence that defines the loaf’s flavor.
• Unsalted butter: Provides richness and moisture to keep the loaf tender.
• Granulated sugar and brown sugar: A sweet duo that adds caramel notes and sweetness.
• Eggs: Bind everything together and add structure.
• Apple cider: The star ingredient that infuses the loaf with bright, fruity warmth.
• Vanilla extract: Adds depth and rounds out the spices beautifully.
• Cinnamon sugar crust (granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, melted butter): This topping delivers the signature crunch and sweetness that make every bite feel like a donut.

How to Make Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf with a Cinnamon Sugar Crust

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan

Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan carefully to ensure your Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf with a Cinnamon Sugar Crust doesn’t stick. This small prep step goes a long way in getting perfect, clean slices later.

Step 2: Whisk the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, combine your flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and your trio of warming spices: cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice. Whisking these together before adding them to the wet ingredients ensures even distribution and a perfectly spiced loaf from top to bottom.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a larger bowl, whisk melted butter with granulated and brown sugars until smooth and velvety. Then add the eggs one at a time, mixing well to create a luscious batter. Finally, stir in the apple cider and vanilla extract, which bring that unmistakable autumn charm to the loaf.

Step 4: Gently Fold Dry Into Wet

Pour the dry ingredients gradually into your wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix! Overworking the batter can create a dense loaf, but a gentle hand will keep it soft, tender, and moist, just like a real donut.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Pour your batter into the prepared loaf pan and pop it into the oven. Let it bake for 45-50 minutes, checking with a toothpick for doneness — it should come out clean with just a few moist crumbs. The aroma while it bakes is absolutely heavenly, filling your kitchen with the inviting scent of apple cider and cinnamon.

Step 6: Add the Cinnamon Sugar Crust

Mix the cinnamon and sugar together in a small bowl while the loaf bakes. Once the loaf is out of the oven and has cooled slightly but is still warm, brush the top with melted butter and generously sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over it. This step transforms the loaf into the Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf with a Cinnamon Sugar Crust that tastes just like the classic treat you crave.

Step 7: Slice, Serve, and Savor

Slice your loaf when it has cooled enough to handle, or enjoy it warm for a comforting morning treat. Each slice delivers the perfect combination of tender, spiced bread and sweet, crunchy topping — perfect with a cup of coffee or a warm mug of cider.

How to Serve Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf with a Cinnamon Sugar Crust

Garnishes

A dusting of powdered sugar after baking adds a delicate snowy touch that makes this loaf look as good as it tastes. Fresh apple slices or a sprinkle of chopped nuts can introduce texture and a splash of color to your serving plate.

Side Dishes

This loaf pairs beautifully with rich, warm beverages like spiced chai or hot apple cider, making it an ideal centerpiece for fall breakfasts or teatime treats. Think fresh fruit salad or a dollop of vanilla Greek yogurt on the side for a balanced, satisfying bite.

Creative Ways to Present

For brunch, serve your Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf with a drizzle of homemade caramel or a smear of cream cheese frosting for an indulgent twist. You can also cut it into mini loaf slices or even bake it in a muffin tin for adorable single-serving portions that are perfect for guests or lunchbox treats.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftover Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf with a Cinnamon Sugar Crust wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. The loaf maintains its moist texture and spice-infused flavor beautifully.

Freezing

This loaf freezes wonderfully! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or place slices in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

Reheat slices gently in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or warm them in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes. This will revive the cinnamon sugar crust’s delightful crunch and enhance the cozy spice aroma.

FAQs

Can I use apple juice instead of apple cider?

Absolutely! Apple juice works as a lighter substitute, though apple cider provides a richer, more authentic depth of flavor for this loaf.

Is it possible to add apples or nuts to this recipe?

Yes! Chopped apples or walnuts make a lovely addition, adding texture and a fresh burst of flavor that complements the loaf’s spices perfectly.

How do I make this loaf dairy-free?

You can swap the butter for a plant-based alternative like coconut oil or vegan margarine to keep it dairy-free without compromising moisture or taste.

What’s the best way to prevent the loaf from drying out?

Don’t overmix the batter and avoid overbaking. Removing it when a toothpick comes out mostly clean ensures it stays soft and moist.

Can I make this recipe into muffins?

Definitely! Divide the batter evenly into muffin tins and bake for about 20-25 minutes. The cinnamon sugar topping will still create that delicious crust on each individual muffin.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a fall treat that feels like a warm hug from the inside out, the Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf with a Cinnamon Sugar Crust is your new best friend. It’s simple, satisfying, and drenched in those classic autumn flavors we all crave. I truly hope you take a moment to try this cozy, flavorful loaf — I promise it will become a beloved staple in your seasonal baking repertoire!

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