Name: Delicious Apple Cider Doughnut Loaf Cake for Cozy Mornings
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 85 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Apple Cider (Use fresh, unfiltered cider for the best taste.); 1 cup Sour Cream (Plain yogurt works well too.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract; ½ cup Unsalted Butter (Can be substituted with margarine for a dairy-free option.); 2 large Eggs (Use room temperature eggs for better mixing.); ¾ cup Brown Sugar (Use white sugar for a lighter taste.); 1.25 cups All-Purpose Flour (Gluten-free flour blends can be used for a gluten-free version.); 2 tablespoons Cornstarch; 1.25 teaspoons Baking Powder; ½ teaspoon Baking Soda; ½ teaspoon Salt; ½ teaspoon Cinnamon (Adjust to your taste.); ¼ teaspoon Nutmeg (Adjust to your taste.); ¼ cup Granulated Sugar (Sweetens the topping for a crunchy finish.); ½ teaspoon Cinnamon (Enhances the topping with a dash of warmth.)

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As I walked through the local orchard, the scent of fresh apple cider lingered in the air, igniting memories of crisp fall days and cozy kitchen moments. This is exactly the spirit I channeled when creating my Apple Cider Doughnut Loaf Cake, a delightful treat that embraces the essence of autumn with every moist slice. What makes this loaf a standout is its quick prep time, turning it into an impressive option for gatherings or a comforting breakfast with minimal effort. Each bite showcases the rich apple cider flavor, wrapped in a tender crumb and finished off with a sweet cinnamon-sugar topping that’ll have everyone coming back for more. Ready to fill your kitchen with the warm, inviting aromas of fall? Let’s dive into this must-try recipe that’s sure to become a seasonal favorite!

Why is this Apple Cider Cake Special?

Seasonal Sensation: Indulge in the flavors of autumn with this stunning loaf cake, perfect for cozy mornings or festive gatherings.

Moist Texture: Each slice is incredibly moist, ensuring a delightful bite every time.

Easy-to-Make: With straightforward steps, this cake is suitable for bakers of any skill level—no more complicated recipes!

Crowd-Pleasing: It’s a guaranteed hit at any brunch or dessert table, delighting friends and family alike.

Versatile Enjoyment: Serve it warm with coffee or tea, or try it with a dollop of whipped cream for a special treat. Elevate your baking game this fall with this Moist Apple Cider Doughnut Loaf Cake that brings the orchard right into your home!

Apple Cider Doughnut Loaf Cake Ingredients

For the Cake

• Apple Cider – Adds moisture and deep apple flavor; Note: Use fresh, unfiltered cider for the best taste.
• Sour Cream – Provides moisture and richness; Substitution: Plain yogurt works well too.
• Vanilla Extract – Elevates sweetness and enhances flavor depth.
• Unsalted Butter – Contributes moisture and richness; Note: Can be substituted with margarine for a dairy-free option.
• Large Eggs (2) – Binds ingredients and adds to the cake’s texture; Note: Use room temperature eggs for better mixing.
• Brown Sugar – Imparts sweetness and moisture; adds a touch of caramel flavor. Substitution: Use white sugar for a lighter taste.
• All-Purpose Flour (1 ¼ cups + 2 Tbsp) – Essential for the cake’s structure; Note: Gluten-free flour blends can be used for a gluten-free version.
• Cornstarch (2 Tbsp) – Lightens the texture and makes it soft.
• Baking Powder (1 ¼ tsp) – Provides leavening to achieve a fluffy cake.
• Baking Soda (½ tsp) – Works with the sour cream for leavening.
• Salt (½ tsp) – Balances the sweetness of the cake.
• Cinnamon (½ tsp) and Nutmeg (¼ tsp) – Add warm spices to the cake; adjust to your taste.

For the Topping

• Granulated Sugar (¼ cup) – Sweetens the topping for a crunchy finish.
• Cinnamon (½ tsp) – Enhances the topping with a dash of warmth.

Dive into baking this delightful Apple Cider Doughnut Loaf Cake and experience the essence of fall in every bite!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Apple Cider Doughnut Loaf Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). While the oven warms up, prepare a 9×5 inch loaf pan by spraying it with non-stick spray and optionally lining it with parchment paper for easier removal later. This step will set the stage for your perfect Apple Cider Doughnut Loaf Cake!

Step 2: Reduce the Apple Cider
In a medium saucepan, pour in fresh apple cider and bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. Allow it to simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it reduces to ½ cup. Once done, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly before mixing in sour cream and vanilla extract for a luscious wet mixture.

Step 3: Melt the Butter
Using the same saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over low heat. Once the butter is fully melted, take it off the heat and allow it to cool to room temperature. This will add rich flavor to your doughnut loaf cake while ensuring the batter remains smooth and combined.

Step 4: Mix the Eggs and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl or a stand mixer bowl, add two large eggs along with the brown sugar. Beat them together on medium speed for about 3-4 minutes, or until the mixture becomes smooth and frothy. This creates a fluffy base for your Apple Cider Doughnut Loaf Cake.

Step 5: Combine Butter with Egg Mixture
Slowly pour the cooled melted butter into the egg and sugar mixture while continuing to mix on low speed. This ensures that the butter is evenly incorporated without cooking the eggs, resulting in a rich and moist cake.

Step 6: Whisk the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Take a moment to blend the dry ingredients thoroughly, as this step is crucial for the structure of your loaf cake.

Step 7: Mix Dry with Wet Ingredients
Gradually fold the dry ingredient mixture into the egg mixture, alternating with the apple cider mixture. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine for your Apple Cider Doughnut Loaf Cake.

Step 8: Bake the Cake
Pour the aromatic batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top as needed. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 55 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

Step 9: Cool the Cake
Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. This resting period allows the cake to set. Then, carefully transfer it to a wire rack using the parchment paper for a gentle release, cooling for an additional five minutes.

Step 10: Add the Sweet Topping
After cooling, brush the top and sides of your loaf cake with melted butter. In a shallow dish, mix granulated sugar with cinnamon, then roll the warm cake in this mixture to create that signature crunchy, sweet crust. Slice and serve your Apple Cider Doughnut Loaf Cake to enjoy the flavors of fall!

Make Ahead Options

These Apple Cider Doughnut Loaf Cakes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator to save time on busy mornings. Simply mix all the ingredients as directed and cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap to maintain freshness. Alternatively, you can bake the loaf cake and let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply roll the top in the cinnamon-sugar mixture and warm it briefly in the oven for that fresh-baked flavor. This way, you’ll have a delightful, homemade treat ready to enjoy in no time!

Apple Cider Doughnut Loaf Cake Variations

Feel free to play with this recipe and make it your own, as there are so many delightful twists to consider!

Add Apples: Incorporate chopped apples or applesauce for an added fruity moisture boost and texture.
Spice Swap: Experiment with spices like ginger or allspice to create a unique flavor profile that dances on your palate.
Glazed Delight: Drizzle a glaze made of powdered sugar and apple cider over the cooled loaf for an extra touch of sweetness.
Nutty Crunch: Toss in walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch that complements the softness of the cake.
Pumpkin Spice Variation: Substitute part of the apple cider with pumpkin puree and add pumpkin spice for a fall-inspired treat.
Dairy-Free Option: Replace sour cream with a nondairy yogurt and use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free version.
Higher Heat: For a more caramelized crust, bake at 350°F for a slightly shorter time—just keep an eye on it!
Chocolate Chips: Fold in chocolate chips for a sweet surprise that pairs beautifully with the flavors of apple and spice.

As you dive into your baking adventure, remember to savor those moments in the kitchen, just like how you would enjoy a soothing cup of warm cider. If you’re in the mood for more comforting fall treats, take a look at my delightful Cinnamon Swirl Apple recipe or indulge in a luscious Decadent Carrot Cake. Happy baking!

Expert Tips for Apple Cider Doughnut Loaf Cake

Use Fresh Cider: Start with fresh, unfiltered apple cider to infuse the cake with rich and robust flavor—it’s essential for that autumn essence!
Room Temperature Eggs: Ensure your eggs are at room temperature for optimal mixing. This helps achieve a smooth batter, resulting in a moist cake.
Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix until just incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture instead of the desired light and airy crumb.
Cinnamon-Sugar Coating: Be generous with the cinnamon-sugar topping. It provides an authentic doughnut experience that complements the apple flavor beautifully.
Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cake toward the end of the baking time. Every oven is different, and slight variations can impact doneness for your Apple Cider Doughnut Loaf Cake.
Cool Completely: Allow the cake to cool before slicing. This helps maintain its moisture and ensures clean cuts without crumbling.

How to Store and Freeze Apple Cider Doughnut Loaf Cake

Room Temperature: Store the Apple Cider Doughnut Loaf Cake loosely covered with foil at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain its moist texture.
Fridge: If you prefer, you can refrigerate the cake in an airtight container for up to a week, but this may slightly change its texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, freezing for up to 1 month.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw the cake in the fridge overnight and warm slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for a fresh-from-the-oven experience.

What to Serve with Apple Cider Doughnut Loaf Cake

Indulging in this warm, spiced loaf cake is only the beginning of your cozy fall experience; pair it with delightful accompaniments for a complete meal.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These buttery potatoes add a rich, savory contrast to the sweet loaf, making each bite a delicious surprise.
Spiced Chai Latte: The warm spices in chai mirror the nutmeg and cinnamon in the cake, creating a comforting pairing perfect for chilly mornings.
Caramel Apple Salad: Chunks of crisp apples drizzled with creamy caramel add a fresh and crunchy element, enhancing the apple flavor beautifully.
Pumpkin Soup: This creamy, spiced soup complements the richness of the loaf cake and warms the soul during fall gatherings.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The slightly bitter, roasted sprouts with a drizzle of balsamic glaze provide a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the loaf.
Cinnamon Ice Cream: A scoop of this indulgent ice cream, with its warm spice flavors, creates a cozy dessert experience, marrying fall flavors perfectly.

Enhance your serving with a simple cup of coffee or tea to make it the ultimate autumn breakfast or dessert!

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Apple Cider Doughnut Loaf Cake Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best apple cider for the cake?
Absolutely! For the best flavor in your Apple Cider Doughnut Loaf Cake, opt for fresh, unfiltered apple cider. Look for cider without additives or preservatives, as this will give you the richest apple flavor and moisture. Avoid ciders with visible dark spots or strange odors, as they may indicate spoilage.

What’s the best way to store the Apple Cider Doughnut Loaf Cake?
To keep your loaf fresh, store it at room temperature, loosely covered with foil for up to 3 days. This method helps maintain its wonderfully moist texture. If you wish to keep it longer, refrigerate it in an airtight container for about a week or freeze it tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 1 month.

Can I freeze the cake? If so, how?
Yes, you can definitely freeze your Apple Cider Doughnut Loaf Cake! After it has fully cooled, wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap, ensuring there are no exposed areas. Then wrap it again in aluminum foil to further protect it from freezer burn. Label it with the date, and it will stay good for up to 1 month. To enjoy, thaw the cake in the refrigerator overnight before warming slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.

What if my cake doesn’t rise properly?
If your Apple Cider Doughnut Loaf Cake is dense or doesn’t rise, it could be due to expired baking powder or soda. Always check the expiration dates on your leavening agents. Also, ensure you’re measuring your ingredients accurately; too much flour can lead to a heavy cake. If this happens, try gently folding your dry ingredients into the wet mixture without overmixing. A few lumps are perfectly fine!

Is there a way to adjust this recipe for allergies or dietary preferences?
Very! If you have dairy allergies, substitute the unsalted butter with margarine or a dairy-free butter alternative. For eggs, you can use unsweetened applesauce as a replacement (1/4 cup per egg). If you need a gluten-free option, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour. Just remember, the texture might change a bit, but it’ll still be delicious!

How can I elevate the flavor of my Apple Cider Doughnut Loaf Cake?
For an extra kick of flavor, consider folding in chopped fresh apples or a bit of applesauce into the batter for moisture and flavor. Additionally, experimenting with spices can add warmth; try using ginger or allspice for a unique twist. If you crave something sweeter, drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and apple cider over the cooled cake for an indulgent finish.