Apple Cider Donut Loaf Cake (Print)

Tender apple cider loaf with cinnamon-sugar topping and rich, cozy flavors inspired by classic donuts.

# Components:

→ For the Batter

01 - 1 cup apple cider, reduced to 1/2 cup
02 - 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
03 - 3/4 cup granulated sugar
04 - 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
05 - 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
06 - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
07 - 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
08 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
09 - 2 large eggs
10 - 1/2 cup neutral oil
11 - 1/2 cup sour cream

→ For the Finish

12 - 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
13 - 1/4 cup granulated sugar mixed with 1 teaspoon cinnamon

# Directions:

01 - In a small saucepan, simmer 1 cup of apple cider over medium heat until it reduces to 1/2 cup. Let it cool completely before proceeding.
02 - Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a standard 9x5 inch loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
03 - In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, neutral oil, sour cream, and the cooled reduced apple cider until well combined. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just incorporated. Be careful not to overmix.
04 - Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread evenly. Bake for 45 to 55 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
05 - While the loaf is still warm, brush the melted butter evenly over the top. Immediately sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the buttered surface, ensuring it's well coated. Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 20 minutes before carefully removing it using the parchment paper overhang.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Fresh apple flavor that truly comes through in every bite
  • Ready in under 90 minutes with mostly pantry staples
  • Stays moist for days thanks to the sour cream and oil base
  • No special equipment needed just basic mixing bowls
02 -
  • Perfect fall breakfast or afternoon snack that pairs beautifully with coffee or tea
  • Can be made ahead the day before guests arrive
  • Contains all the nostalgic flavors of apple picking season in one easy loaf
03 -
  • Always measure your reduced cider after simmering, not before. The exact reduction time varies based on your stove and pan, but you need precisely 1/2 cup for proper moisture balance in the recipe.

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