Cozy Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf Recipe for Fall

There’s something truly special about the aroma of warm spices and apple cider filling your kitchen in the fall. This cozy apple cider donut loaf brings all those comforting fall flavors together in one soft, delicious treat. You’ll love how easy it is to whip up and how perfectly it pairs with your morning coffee or afternoon tea.

this Recipe

If you’re a fan of classic apple cider donuts but want a simple loaf to slice and share, this recipe is your new seasonal favorite. It captures the essence of those donut flavors in a tender, moist loaf you can enjoy throughout the day, making autumn mornings even more magical.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Infused with warm fall spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves for rich flavor
• Moist and tender texture that stays fresh for days
• Made with real apple cider for authentic apple flavor
• Simple ingredients and easy steps, perfect for bakers of all levels
• Versatile enough for breakfast, dessert, or a snack

Ingredients

Gather these pantry staples and fresh ingredients to bake your cozy apple cider donut loaf.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 3/4 cup apple cider (preferably fresh or unsweetened)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup finely grated apple (about 1 medium apple, peeled)
• Optional: cinnamon sugar for dusting

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Servings: 8 slices
• Calories: Approximately 250 per slice

How to Make Cozy Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf: A Fall Baking Delight

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt until well combined.
3. In a separate large bowl, beat the eggs with granulated sugar and brown sugar until smooth and slightly fluffy. Add melted butter, apple cider, and vanilla extract, mixing well to combine.
4. Fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients gently, then stir in the grated apple until evenly distributed, being careful not to overmix.
5. Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the loaf is golden brown.
6. Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. If desired, while still warm, dust the top with a cinnamon sugar mixture for that classic apple cider donut finish.
7. Let the loaf cool completely before slicing to enjoy the best texture and flavor.

Tips for the Best Results

• Use fresh apple cider for the most authentic flavor; avoid overly sweetened commercial varieties.
• Grate the apple finely to ensure it blends smoothly into the batter and keeps the loaf moist.
• Don’t overmix the batter once you combine wet and dry ingredients to keep the loaf tender.
• Check for doneness at 45 minutes, as ovens vary; a toothpick test is the most reliable method.
• For extra flavor, stir in a handful of chopped walnuts or raisins before baking.

Storage and Reheating

Store your apple cider donut loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to avoid condensation.

If you want to keep it longer, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm slices in the microwave or toaster oven for about 20 seconds to bring back that fresh-baked feel.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use apple juice instead of apple cider?

While apple juice can be used, apple cider has a richer, spiced flavor that really enhances this loaf. If you only have juice, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg to mimic cider’s warmth.

What type of apple works best in this recipe?

Choose a sweet-tart apple like Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Gala for the best balance of flavor and moisture. These apples also hold up well when grated.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend of equal measure. Just make sure the blend contains xanthan gum or a similar binder for good texture.

Is it possible to turn this loaf into muffins?

Absolutely! Divide the batter evenly into a greased or lined muffin tin and bake at 350°F for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.