Apple Cider Donut Loaf Irresistibly Simple Recipe

Craving a sweet treat that brings warmth and comfort? You’ll love this Apple Cider Donut Loaf! With its rich apple flavor and cozy spices, it’s simple to make and hard to resist. Whether you want a delightful dessert or a special breakfast, this loaf fits the bill perfectly. I’m here to share my easy recipe and tips that guarantee success in your kitchen. Let’s bake something amazing together!

Ingredients

Complete Ingredient List

To make this apple cider donut loaf, you’ll need the following ingredients:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour

– 1 cup apple cider

– 1 cup granulated sugar

– 1/2 cup packed brown sugar

– 1 teaspoon baking powder

– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

– 1/4 teaspoon salt

– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

– 2 large eggs

– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

– 1/2 cup granulated sugar mixed with 1 teaspoon cinnamon (for topping)

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap ingredients if needed. Here are some ideas:

– All-purpose flour: Use whole wheat flour for a heartier loaf.

– Apple cider: Substitute with apple juice, but the flavor will be milder.

– Granulated sugar: Honey or maple syrup can work, but adjust the liquid.

– Unsalted butter: Coconut oil or vegetable oil can replace butter.

– Eggs: Use flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) for a vegan option.

Optional Toppings

For extra flavor, consider these toppings:

– Glaze: Mix cream cheese, powdered sugar, and a splash of apple cider.

– Nuts: Add chopped walnuts or pecans on top for crunch.

– Drizzle: A simple maple syrup drizzle brings out the sweetness.

This list keeps the recipe simple and adaptable, making your baking easy and fun!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Steps

First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan. This helps the loaf come out easily after baking. Next, take a medium bowl. In that bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Make sure they mix well. Set this bowl aside for now.

Mixing the Batter

In a large bowl, mix the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and melted butter. Stir until it looks smooth. Now, add the eggs one at a time. Mix well after each egg. Then, pour in the vanilla extract and blend it in. Gradually add the apple cider while stirring. This will make your batter smooth and tasty. Now, take the dry mixture you set aside. Gently fold it into the wet mixture. Remember, mix just until combined. Overmixing can make the loaf dense.

Baking the Loaf

Pour the batter into your greased loaf pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the batter for a sweet crust. Place the pan in your preheated oven. Bake for 50-55 minutes. The loaf is ready when a toothpick comes out clean from the center. After baking, let the loaf cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy the sweet smell filling your kitchen!

Tips & Tricks

Achieving the Perfect Texture

To get that soft, moist texture, mix gently. Overmixing can make the loaf tough. When you fold in the dry ingredients, stop as soon as you see no flour. The batter should be lumpy but not dry. Remember to use fresh apple cider; it adds flavor and moisture.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your loaf sinks, it might be due to too much liquid or not enough baking powder. Always measure carefully. If the loaf is too dense, you might have overmixed the batter. For a dry loaf, check your baking time. Use a toothpick to test for doneness.

Serving Suggestions

Slice the loaf warm for the best taste. A drizzle of cream cheese glaze makes it special. To make the glaze, mix cream cheese, powdered sugar, and a bit of apple cider. For extra flair, sprinkle some cinnamon on top. Enjoy with coffee or tea for a cozy treat!

Variations

Glazed Apple Cider Donut Loaf

You can make a glazed version for extra sweetness. Mix powdered sugar with apple cider. Drizzle this glaze over the cooled loaf. It adds a nice shine and flavor. This glaze takes your loaf to the next level.

Gluten-Free Version

For a gluten-free option, swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Make sure the blend has a good structure. This will keep the loaf from being too dense. You may need to add a bit more liquid. Check the texture as you mix.

Adding Mix-ins (Nuts, Raisins, etc.)

You can personalize your loaf by adding mix-ins. Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans work well. Raisins or dried cranberries add a sweet touch. Stir in about half a cup of your chosen mix-ins. This makes each slice unique and delightful.

Storage Info

How to Store Leftover Loaf

To store your leftover apple cider donut loaf, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. You can also use a zip-top bag. Keep the loaf at room temperature for up to three days. If you want it to last longer, consider refrigeration. However, this may change the texture a bit.

Freezing Instructions

If you want to freeze the loaf, slice it first. Wrap each slice in plastic wrap. Then, place the slices in a freezer bag. This way, you can take out only what you need. The loaf can freeze well for about three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw in the fridge or at room temperature.

Reheating Tips

To reheat your apple cider donut loaf, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the loaf or slices on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes, until warm. If you want a softer loaf, cover it with foil while reheating. You can also use a microwave, heating slices for about 15-20 seconds. Enjoy the warm flavors again!

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this loaf ahead of time. Bake it and let it cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Store it at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, put it in the fridge for up to a week. You can also freeze it for up to three months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving.

What if I don’t have apple cider?

If you don’t have apple cider, you can use apple juice instead. The flavor will be a bit lighter, but it will still taste great. You can also mix apple juice with a bit of vinegar. About one tablespoon of vinegar can help mimic the tartness of cider. This mix will keep the flavor close to the original recipe.

How can I make the loaf more apple-flavored?

To boost the apple flavor, add fresh apple pieces to the batter. Chop one medium apple into small cubes and fold them in gently. You can also use applesauce, adding about half a cup to the wet ingredients. Another option is to sprinkle some dried apple bits on top before baking. These tips will enhance the apple taste in your loaf.

This blog post covers all you need to make a great apple cider loaf. We looked at the ingredients, including swaps and tasty toppings. I shared step-by-step instructions, tips for perfect texture, and fun variations. Storing your loaf properly helps it last longer.

In the end, have fun and get creative! Enjoy baking this tasty treat. You’ll love sharing it with friends and family.

Apple Cider Donut Loaf

Indulge in the sweet and cozy flavors of fall with this delightful Apple Cider Donut Loaf recipe! Perfectly moist and packed with warm spices, this loaf is easy to make and ideal for any gathering. Discover how simple ingredients come together to create a scrumptious dessert that's perfect for slicing and sharing. Click through to explore the full recipe and enjoy a taste of autumn with every bite!

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Ingredients

  

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 cup apple cider

1 cup granulated sugar

1/2 cup packed brown sugar

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

2 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 cup granulated sugar mixed with 1 teaspoon cinnamon (for topping)

Instructions

 

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a standard 9x5 inch loaf pan to prepare it for baking.

In a medium mixing bowl, thoroughly whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt until well combined. Set this mixture aside for later use.

In a large bowl, combine the granulated sugar, packed brown sugar, and melted unsalted butter. Mix these ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and well blended.

Add the eggs to the sugar-butter mixture, one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Follow this by mixing in the vanilla extract.

Gradually pour the apple cider into the wet ingredients, stirring continuously until the mixture is fully blended.

Carefully fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet mixture using a spatula; mix only until just combined to avoid overmixing, which can result in a dense loaf.

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with the spatula for an even surface.

Generously sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the top of the batter to create a delicious crust while baking.

Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-55 minutes. The loaf is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Afterward, carefully transfer the loaf to a wire rack to cool completely.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes | Servings: 8 slices

- Presentation Tips: For an extra special touch, slice the loaf and serve it warm, drizzled with a creamy glaze made from mixing cream cheese, powdered sugar, and a splash of apple cider. Garnish with a light sprinkle of cinnamon for visual appeal and added flavor.