All the Cozy Doughnut Flavors in a Slice
If you love classic apple cider doughnuts, this Apple Cider Doughnut Loaf Cake is about to become your new favorite fall bake. Moist, tender, and packed with warm cinnamon, nutmeg, and rich apple cider flavor, this loaf delivers everything you love about the orchard treat in an easy-to-slice cake. Finished with a buttery cinnamon-sugar coating, it’s perfect for breakfast, afternoon coffee, holiday brunches, or a cozy dessert. Best of all, this apple cider loaf cake recipe is simple to prepare, making it ideal for busy bakers who want homemade flavor without the fuss.
⏱️ Time Breakdown
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50–55 minutes
- Cooling Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Servings: 10 slices
📝 Ingredients
For the Loaf Cake
- 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- ½ cup (113 g) unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar
- ¼ cup (50 g) light brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¾ cup apple cider, reduced if possible for a richer flavor
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 medium apple, peeled and finely grated
For the Cinnamon Sugar Topping
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
✨ Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
This recipe doesn’t require fancy gadgets, just a few reliable kitchen basics to keep everything simple and stress-free.
- 9×5-inch loaf pan
- Mixing bowls
- Electric hand mixer or stand mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
- Rubber spatula
- Cooling rack
- Pastry brush
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Beginner-Friendly Instructions
1. Prepare the Pan 🍎
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugars 🧈
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar for 2–3 minutes until light and fluffy.
4. Add the Wet Ingredients
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then mix in the vanilla extract. Stir in the sour cream and grated apple until well combined.
5. Combine the Batter
Alternate adding the dry ingredients and apple cider, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix just until no dry streaks remain. Avoid overmixing to keep the loaf tender.
6. Bake 😊
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 50–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
7. Cool Slightly
Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then lift it onto a wire rack while it’s still slightly warm.
8. Add the Cinnamon Sugar Coating ✨
Brush the top and sides of the warm loaf with melted butter. Mix the granulated sugar and cinnamon together, then generously sprinkle or press the mixture onto the loaf until evenly coated.
9. Slice and Enjoy
Allow the loaf to cool for another 10–15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.
💡 Pro Tips
- Reduce the cider: Simmer the apple cider until reduced by half before measuring for a more concentrated apple flavor.
- Don’t overmix: Stir the batter just until combined for the softest texture.
- Storage: Keep the loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 1 week.
- Freeze it: Wrap individual slices tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
🌟 Variations
- Maple Glaze: Drizzle cooled slices with a maple powdered sugar glaze instead of the cinnamon sugar coating.
- Apple Walnut: Fold in ½ cup chopped toasted walnuts or pecans.
- Extra Spice: Add a pinch of allspice or cardamom for a deeper autumn flavor.
- Caramel Finish: Serve with a drizzle of warm salted caramel sauce.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use apple juice instead of apple cider?
Yes, but apple cider provides a richer, more robust apple flavor.
Why should I reduce the cider?
Reducing the cider concentrates its flavor, giving the loaf a more authentic apple cider doughnut taste.
Can I make this loaf ahead of time?
Absolutely! It stays moist for several days and tastes even better the next day.
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Yes. Full-fat plain Greek yogurt is an excellent substitute and keeps the loaf moist.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Enjoy this cozy loaf cake with:
- Hot apple cider
- Freshly brewed coffee
- Chai tea or cinnamon tea
- Vanilla ice cream for dessert
- A drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra-special treat
This Apple Cider Doughnut Loaf Cake captures all the nostalgic flavors of a freshly made orchard doughnut in a soft, buttery loaf that’s easy to bake and even easier to love. Perfect for crisp autumn mornings, holiday gatherings, or whenever you’re craving a comforting homemade treat.