Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf – Fall Baking Recipe with Cinnamon Sugar Topping
This Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf brings all the cozy flavors of fall into one delicious bake. Infused with warm spices and tangy apple cider, then finished with a cinnamon sugar topping, it’s the perfect treat for crisp mornings, holiday brunches, or afternoon coffee breaks.
Equipment
- 9x5-inch loaf pan
- Mixing bowls (2)
- Whisk
- Pastry brush
- Toothpick
- Wire rack
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp nutmeg
- ¼ tsp allspice
Wet Ingredients:
- ¾ cup reduced apple cider (start with 1½ cups and simmer to reduce)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Cinnamon Sugar Topping:
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line loaf pan.
- In a bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices.
- In another bowl, mix reduced cider, melted butter, eggs, sugars, and vanilla.
- Gently fold wet into dry until just combined—do not overmix.
- Pour batter into pan and smooth top.
- Bake for 50–60 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean.
- While warm, brush top with melted butter and sprinkle cinnamon sugar.
- Cool in pan 10 minutes, then transfer to rack.
- Slice once fully cooled for best texture.
Notes
- Reduce apple cider for richer flavor
- Use plant-based butter for dairy-free version
- Add-ins like chopped apples or walnuts work well
- Store in airtight container or freeze slices individually
- Serve warm for best flavor release