Introduction
Transform humble ingredients into a cozy masterpiece with this spiced apple cider donut loaf! It’s the perfect blend of warm spices, sweet apples, and that irresistible cinnamon sugar crust – all baked into one delightful loaf. This recipe is incredibly easy, perfect for both seasoned bakers and kitchen newbies alike. Get ready for a taste of autumn in every bite!
Why This Works
This recipe is a winner because it combines the comforting flavors of a classic apple cider donut with the convenience of a loaf cake. It’s moist, flavorful, and the cinnamon sugar topping adds a delightful crunch that elevates the entire experience. Plus, it’s incredibly forgiving – even if you’re not a pro baker, this recipe will still deliver delicious results!
Key Ingredients
🍎 2 cups peeled and diced apples
🧈 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
🍯 1 cup packed light brown sugar
🥚 2 large eggs
🥛 1 cup apple cider
🌾 2 cups all-purpose flour
🥄 2 teaspoons baking soda
🍂 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
🎃 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
🍁 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
🧂 1/2 teaspoon salt
🥣 1/2 cup granulated sugar
cinnamon for dusting (amount to taste)
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
2️⃣ In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3️⃣ Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the apple cider.
4️⃣ In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
5️⃣ Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Don’t overmix!
6️⃣ Gently fold in the diced apples.
7️⃣ Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
8️⃣ In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle evenly over the top of the batter.
9️⃣ Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
🔟 Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Handy Tips
- Use a good quality apple cider for the best flavor.
- Don’t overmix the batter, or your loaf might be tough.
- If your apples are on the drier side, you can add a tablespoon or two of milk to the batter.
- For an extra-cinnamony crust, press the cinnamon sugar mixture into the top of the batter before baking.
Heat Control
Baking at 350°F (175°C) ensures even baking and prevents burning. Check the loaf regularly after 50 minutes to avoid overbaking, as oven temperatures can vary. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean when it’s done.
Crunch Factor
The cinnamon sugar crust provides a delightful textural contrast to the moist, tender interior of the loaf. The crunch adds a satisfying element to each bite.
Pro Kitchen Tricks
- For a richer flavor, use brown butter instead of regular butter.
- Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for added texture and flavor.
- Make a simple glaze by whisking together powdered sugar with a little apple cider or milk until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled loaf.
Storage Tips
Store the cooled loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Gift Packaging Ideas
Wrap the loaf in cellophane and tie it with a ribbon. Add a festive tag with the recipe name and a personal message.
Flavor Variations
🌟 Cranberry Apple Cider Donut Loaf: Add 1/2 cup of dried cranberries to the batter.
🌟 Maple Pecan Apple Cider Donut Loaf: Stir in 1/2 cup chopped pecans and 1/4 cup maple syrup to the batter.
🌟 Spiced Rum Apple Cider Donut Loaf: Add 1 tablespoon of rum extract to the batter (for adult consumption only).
🌟 Apple Cider Donut Loaf with Cream Cheese Frosting: Top with a simple cream cheese frosting for an extra decadent treat.
Troubleshooting
- My loaf is dry: You may have overbaked it. Next time, check for doneness a few minutes earlier.
- My loaf is gummy: You may not have added enough flour or baking soda. Double-check the recipe and try again.
- My loaf sank in the middle: This is often caused by overmixing or using old baking powder.
FAQ
- Can I use different apples? Yes, any variety will work, but tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are ideal.
- Can I make this loaf ahead of time? Yes, it’s best to bake it the day before serving, allowing the flavors to meld.
- How long does it stay fresh? Stored properly, the loaf will stay fresh for 3-4 days at room temperature.
Conclusion
This spiced apple cider donut loaf is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! The warm spices, the tender texture, and the irresistible cinnamon sugar crust make it a perfect treat for any occasion. We hope you enjoy baking and sharing this delicious recipe with your loved ones. Happy baking!