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Apple Cider Donut Loaf Cake

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Apple Cider Donut Loaf Cake is a cozy, spiced loaf that captures the flavors of classic apple cider donuts in an easy, no-fry format. Infused with reduced apple cider and warm spices, it’s finished with a cinnamon-sugar topping for that iconic donut taste.

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups apple cider
  • 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup whole milk or buttermilk
  • For the topping:
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

  1. In a saucepan over medium heat, simmer the apple cider until reduced to about 3/4 cup. Set aside to cool slightly.
  2. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment if desired.
  3. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
  4. In a large bowl, whisk melted butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar until combined.
  5. Add eggs and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and mix until smooth.
  6. Stir in the reduced apple cider and milk.
  7. Add dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
  8. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
  9. Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  10. Cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then remove and transfer to a wire rack.
  11. While still warm, brush the loaf with melted butter and sprinkle with the cinnamon-sugar topping mixture.
  12. Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Notes

Use fresh, non-alcoholic apple cider—not apple juice—for best flavor.Reducing the cider concentrates flavor and improves cake texture.To make dairy-free, substitute dairy-free butter and plant-based milk.Add a simple streusel topping before baking for extra texture.Store at room temp for 3 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.

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