Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf with a Cinnamon Sugar Crust
Ingredients
- 1 cup apple cider
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed (for cinnamon sugar crust)
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon (for cinnamon sugar crust)
- 1/4 cup melted butter (for brushing)
Preparation
Step 1: Reduce the Apple Cider
- In a small saucepan, bring the apple cider to a simmer over medium heat.
- Let it cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until reduced to about 1/4 cup. Set aside to cool.
Step 2: Prepare the Loaf Batter
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and salt.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
- Stir in the reduced apple cider, milk, and applesauce until well combined.
Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the loaf dense.
Step 4: Bake the Loaf
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean.
- Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove it from the pan and place it on a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 5: Make the Cinnamon Sugar Crust
- In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon.
- Brush the warm loaf with the melted butter, then generously sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the top and sides of the loaf.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Slice the loaf into thick pieces and serve. Enjoy with a cup of hot apple cider or coffee!
Tips for Success
- Reduced Cider: Reducing the apple cider intensifies its flavor, giving the loaf that rich apple cider donut taste.
- Storage: Store leftover loaf wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.
- Moisture: The applesauce adds extra moisture, making the loaf soft and tender.
Variations
- Add Chopped Apples: Stir in 1/2 cup of finely diced apples into the batter for added texture and flavor.
- Nuts or Raisins: Add a handful of chopped pecans, walnuts, or raisins for extra crunch and sweetness.
- Glaze Option: For extra sweetness, drizzle a simple powdered sugar glaze over the cooled loaf.
Why You’ll Love Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf
- Cozy Fall Flavor: The combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and apple cider makes this loaf perfect for autumn.
- Cinnamon Sugar Crust: The crunchy, sweet topping gives it that classic apple cider donut experience.
- Moist and Tender: This loaf stays soft and moist, making it the perfect treat for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.
Enjoy your spiced apple cider donut loaf! 🍏🍩
