Description
This autumn-inspired loaf is like your favorite apple cider donut transformed into a soft, sliceable cake. Infused with warming spices and fresh apple cider, then topped with a crunchy cinnamon sugar layer, it’s ideal for breakfast, dessert, or sharing at a fall gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Loaf:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg
- ½ tsp ground allspice
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup fresh apple cider
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Cinnamon Sugar Topping:
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 2 tbsp melted butter
Instructions
- Prep the Oven and Pan:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and lightly dust with flour to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice. Whisk until evenly mixed.
- Mix Wet Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, beat together the melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and eggs until smooth. Stir in the apple cider and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
- Combine Wet and Dry:
- Slowly fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined. Avoid overmixing to ensure a tender, soft loaf.
- Bake the Loaf:
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Crust:
- While the loaf bakes, stir together the sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. When the loaf is slightly cooled, brush the top with melted butter and generously sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over it for a crunchy, sweet finish.
- Serve:
- Slice warm for the best texture and flavor. Pair with a hot cup of cider, chai tea, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra cozy treat.
Notes
- Substitutions: Replace apple cider with apple juice or buttermilk if needed.
- Add-ins: Toss in chopped apples or nuts for more texture and flavor.
- Dairy-Free: Swap the butter for a plant-based alternative.
- Serving Ideas: This loaf pairs beautifully with hot drinks or as a dessert with ice cream.
Nutrition
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 22 g
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg