Introduction
Transform ordinary pantry staples into an extraordinary treat with this Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf! This recipe is your shortcut to a bakery-worthy breakfast or dessert, perfect for busy weeknights or weekend brunches. Forget complicated recipes and long baking times—this loaf is quick, easy, and utterly delicious. Get ready to impress yourself (and everyone else)!
Why This Works
This recipe hits all the right notes: warm apple cider spice, a melt-in-your-mouth tender crumb, and the irresistible crunch of a cinnamon sugar coating. It’s the perfect balance of comfort and sophistication, achievable even on your busiest days. Plus, it easily adapts to dietary needs (see Flavor Variations!).
Key Ingredients
🍎 2 cups all-purpose flour
🥚 2 large eggs
🥛 1 cup apple cider
🧈 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
🍯 1/2 cup granulated sugar
коричневый сахар 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
🧂 1 teaspoon baking soda
🥄 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
🍂 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
🍁 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
🧂 1/4 teaspoon salt
🥣 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
🍬 1/4 cup granulated sugar
корица 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (for crust)
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
2️⃣ In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
3️⃣ In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4️⃣ Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Don’t overmix!
5️⃣ Stir in the apple cider until the batter is smooth.
6️⃣ Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
7️⃣ In a small bowl, combine the 1/4 cup granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon of cinnamon for the crust.
8️⃣ Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture 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 the loaf will be tough.
- If you don’t have a 9×5 inch loaf pan, you can use a similar sized baking dish.
- For a richer flavor, use brown butter instead of regular melted butter.
Heat Control
Baking at 350°F (175°C) ensures even cooking and prevents burning. Check the loaf at 50 minutes; if a skewer comes out with moist crumbs, continue baking in 5-minute intervals until it’s perfectly done. Overbaking will result in a dry loaf.
Crunch Factor
The cinnamon sugar crust provides a delightful contrast to the soft, tender crumb of the loaf. The crunchy topping adds a delightful textural element that enhances the overall eating experience.
Pro Kitchen Tricks
- For an extra boost of apple flavor, add 1/2 cup of chopped apples to the batter.
- To make mini-loaves, divide the batter among smaller muffin tins and bake for 20-25 minutes.
- Use a stand mixer for a quicker and easier mixing process.
Storage Tips
Store leftover 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 cooled loaf in cellophane and tie it with a ribbon. Add a festive tag with the recipe name. It’s a perfect homemade gift for friends, family, or neighbors.
Flavor Variations
🌟 Maple Pecan: Add 1/2 cup chopped pecans to the batter and replace 1/4 cup of the granulated sugar with maple syrup.
🌟 Cranberry Orange: Add 1/2 cup dried cranberries and the zest of one orange to the batter.
🌟 Spiced Rum: Add 1 tablespoon of spiced rum to the batter for an extra kick (for adults only!).
🌟 Chocolate Chip: Add 1 cup of chocolate chips to the batter for a decadent twist.
Troubleshooting
- Dry Loaf: You may have overbaked it. Next time, check for doneness earlier.
- Soggy Loaf: Ensure your baking powder is fresh, and don’t overmix the batter.
- Unevenly Baked Loaf: Rotate the loaf halfway through baking for even browning.
FAQ
- Can I freeze this loaf? Yes, freeze the cooled loaf in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
- Can I use different spices? Yes, feel free to experiment with other warm spices like cardamom or ginger.
- What kind of apple cider should I use? Use unfiltered apple cider for the best flavor.
- Can I make this loaf ahead of time? Yes, you can bake it a day or two in advance.
- Is this recipe gluten-free adaptable? While this recipe uses all-purpose flour, you can adapt it by substituting a gluten-free flour blend.
Conclusion
This Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! Its ease, delicious flavor, and impressive presentation make it perfect for any occasion. Share this recipe with your friends and family—and don’t forget to rate it on RateMyRecipes.com! Enjoy!
5-Ingredient Apple Cider Donut Loaf (Ready in 20!)
A deliciously moist apple cider donut loaf that combines the flavors of fall in every slice. Perfect for a quick treat that can be made in just 20 minutes!
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup apple cider
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350u00b0C (175u00b0F) and grease a loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and cinnamon.
- Pour in the apple cider and stir until just combined.
- Transfer the batter to the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool for 10 minutes in the pan before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips
- For an extra touch, sprinkle cinnamon sugar on top before baking.
- Serve warm with a drizzle of icing or a dusting of powdered sugar for added sweetness.