Cozy Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf Recipe You’ll Love

Let me tell you, there’s something magical about the aroma of warm apple cider mixed with cinnamon and nutmeg filling your kitchen. It’s the kind of smell that instantly wraps you in a cozy sweater—even if it’s the middle of summer. The first time I made this spiced apple cider donut loaf, I knew I’d stumbled upon something special. It was the perfect combination of fluffy, moist cake and the nostalgic flavors of a warm cider donut. My family couldn’t stop slicing off pieces (and if I’m being honest, I couldn’t either).

Years ago, I used to buy apple cider donuts from a local pumpkin patch, but I always wished I could recreate that same festive vibe at home. After some trial and error, I finally nailed it. This loaf is not only ridiculously easy to make, but it’s also a showstopper in flavor and texture. Plus, it’s great for breakfast, dessert, or that 3 p.m. snack when you need something sweet and comforting. You’re going to want to bookmark this one—it’s that good!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: No need to fry donuts—this loaf comes together in under an hour with simple steps.
• Simple Ingredients: No fancy grocery trips required; everything is likely in your pantry or fridge.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy brunch, holiday treat, or dessert for guests, this loaf fits the bill.
• Crowd-Pleaser: The warm spices and apple cider flavor are universally loved.
• Unbelievably Delicious: Fluffy, moist, and topped with a cinnamon-sugar coating that takes it to the next level.

What sets this recipe apart is the way apple cider is reduced to concentrate the flavor, giving each bite a bold, tangy kick balanced by warm cinnamon and nutmeg. And don’t even get me started on the buttery cinnamon-sugar crust—it’s the kind of thing that makes you close your eyes in bliss after every bite. This recipe isn’t just good; it’s the kind of comfort food that satisfies your soul and makes your kitchen smell like a dream.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, everyday ingredients to create a loaf that’s packed with warm, spiced flavor.

• Apple cider: 1 cup, reduced to concentrate the flavor (use fresh cider for best results).
• All-purpose flour: 2 cups, sifted for a light texture.
• Baking powder: 1 teaspoon for the perfect rise.
• Baking soda: 1/2 teaspoon to balance the acidity of the cider.
• Salt: 1/2 teaspoon to enhance the flavors.
• Cinnamon: 2 teaspoons for that cozy, warm spice.
• Nutmeg: 1/4 teaspoon for an earthy depth (freshly grated is best).
• Unsalted butter: 1/2 cup, softened (adds richness).
• Granulated sugar: 1 cup for sweetness.
• Brown sugar: 1/4 cup for extra moisture and caramel notes.
• Large eggs: 2, room temperature for better mixing.
• Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon for a hint of warmth.
• Sour cream: 1/2 cup for a tender crumb (substitute Greek yogurt if you prefer).
• Cinnamon-sugar topping: 1/4 cup granulated sugar mixed with 1 teaspoon cinnamon.

Equipment Needed

Here’s what you’ll need to make this spiced apple cider donut loaf:

• Loaf pan: A standard 9×5-inch loaf pan works perfectly.
• Mixing bowls: One for wet ingredients and one for dry ingredients.
• Whisk: To evenly mix the dry ingredients.
• Hand or stand mixer: Makes creaming the butter and sugar a breeze, but you can use a sturdy whisk if needed.
• Small saucepan: For reducing the apple cider.
• Cooling rack: To allow the loaf to cool evenly.
• Pastry brush: Optional, but great for brushing butter onto the loaf before adding the cinnamon-sugar topping.

If you don’t have a loaf pan, you could use a bundt pan or even a muffin tin—just adjust the baking time.

Preparation Method

Follow these simple steps to make your cozy spiced apple cider donut loaf:

1. Reduce the apple cider: Pour 1 cup of apple cider into a small saucepan and simmer over medium heat until it reduces to about 1/3 cup, approximately 10-15 minutes. Let it cool completely before using.
2. Preheat your oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray.
3. Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
4. Cream butter and sugars: In a large bowl, use a hand or stand mixer to beat softened butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Add eggs and vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is mixed evenly.
6. Incorporate sour cream and cider: Mix in the cooled, reduced apple cider and sour cream until fully combined.
7. Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the loaf tender.
8. Pour and bake: Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Cool and finish: Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack.
10. Add cinnamon-sugar topping: Brush the loaf with melted butter and sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the top and sides for that signature donut finish.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Here are some tips to guarantee your spiced apple cider donut loaf turns out perfectly every time:

• Don’t skip reducing the cider: This step intensifies the apple flavor, making it the star of the show.
• Room temperature ingredients: Cold eggs or butter can prevent the batter from mixing evenly, so let them sit out for 30 minutes before starting.
• Don’t overmix: Once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing will make your loaf dense instead of fluffy.
• Check your loaf early: Ovens vary, so start checking for doneness at the 50-minute mark. The top should be golden brown, and a toothpick should come out clean.

Trust me, once you master these tips, your friends and family will be asking for this loaf on repeat.

Variations & Adaptations

• Gluten-Free Option: Swap out the all-purpose flour for a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking blend.
• Dairy-Free Option: Replace the butter with coconut oil and use a dairy-free yogurt instead of sour cream.
• Seasonal Twist: Add a handful of chopped dried cranberries or raisins for extra fall vibes.
• Extra Indulgent: Drizzle a simple powdered sugar glaze over the top instead of the cinnamon-sugar coating.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cardamom or ginger for a more complex spice profile.

Feel free to experiment—this recipe is forgiving, so don’t be afraid to make it your own!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This loaf is best served slightly warm. Slice it thick and pair it with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or—of course—a steaming mug of apple cider.

If you’re hosting, you can dress it up with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra special touch. It’s perfect for dessert or breakfast alike!

To store, wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze individual slices for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply pop a slice in the microwave for 20 seconds or warm it in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

This spiced apple cider donut loaf is a treat, but it has some redeeming qualities too! Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Calories: Approximately 250 per slice (based on 10 servings).
• Key Nutrients: Vitamin C from the apple cider, along with fiber from the flour (especially if you use whole wheat).
• Dietary Notes: Can be made gluten-free or dairy-free with simple substitutions.
• Potential Allergens: Contains eggs, dairy, and gluten unless substituted.

While this isn’t a health food, it’s a great way to enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of fall in moderation.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for the ultimate fall-inspired treat, this cozy spiced apple cider donut loaf is it. It’s everything you love about apple cider donuts in a convenient, sliceable loaf format. Whether you’re enjoying it with coffee on a lazy morning or serving it to friends after dinner, this recipe will quickly become a go-to favorite.

Cozy Spiced Apple Cider Donut Loaf Recipe You’ll Love

Print Recipe

This spiced apple cider donut loaf is the perfect combination of fluffy, moist cake and the nostalgic flavors of a warm cider donut. Great for breakfast, dessert, or a comforting snack.

• Author: paula
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Total Time: 75 minutes
• Yield: 10 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup apple cider, reduced to 1/3 cup
• 2 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg, freshly grated
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup sour cream (or substitute Greek yogurt)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar mixed with 1 teaspoon cinnamon (for topping)

Instructions

1. Pour 1 cup of apple cider into a small saucepan and simmer over medium heat until it reduces to about 1/3 cup, approximately 10-15 minutes. Let it cool completely before using.
2. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
4. In a large bowl, use a hand or stand mixer to beat softened butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is mixed evenly.
6. Mix in the cooled, reduced apple cider and sour cream until fully combined.
7. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the loaf tender.
8. Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack.
10. Brush the loaf with melted butter and sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the top and sides for that signature donut finish.

Notes

[‘Don’t skip reducing the cider to intensify the apple flavor.’, ‘Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing.’, ‘Avoid overmixing to keep the loaf fluffy.’, ‘Start checking for doneness at the 50-minute mark.’]

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 20
• Sodium: 150
• Fat: 10
• Saturated Fat: 6
• Carbohydrates: 35
• Fiber: 1
• Protein: 3

Keywords: apple cider, donut loaf, fall dessert, cinnamon, nutmeg, cozy recipe