Description
This Apple Cider Donut Loaf is a moist and flavorful treat that combines the warm spices of cinnamon and nutmeg with the natural sweetness of reduced apple cider. Baked to perfection with a cinnamon sugar coating, it offers the delightful taste of apple cider donuts in an easy-to-slice loaf form. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy snack.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup apple cider
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 1/4 cup all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting pan
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
Topping
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease an 8x4-inch loaf pan with butter or nonstick spray and optionally line it with parchment paper to make removing the loaf easier.
- Reduce apple cider: Pour the apple cider into a saucepan and bring it to a boil. Let it boil until the liquid reduces by half, which should take about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a bowl and allow it to cool for a few minutes.
- Mix wet cider ingredients: Once cooled slightly, stir the Greek yogurt and vanilla extract into the reduced cider mixture until well combined.
- Beat eggs and sugar: In a medium mixing bowl, add the eggs and brown sugar. Beat them with an electric mixer until the mixture becomes frothy.
- Add butter: While continuing to mix on low speed, slowly pour in the melted butter to combine fully.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg until evenly mixed.
- Bring batter together: Alternate adding the dry ingredients and the cider mixture to the egg mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Be careful not to overmix to keep the batter tender.
- Bake the loaf: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean.
- Cool and prepare topping: Let the loaf cool in the pan on a wire rack for 10 minutes before removing it. Stir together the granulated sugar and cinnamon for the topping.
- Apply topping: Brush the entire loaf with the melted butter, then press the cinnamon sugar mixture onto all sides of the loaf. Repeat brushing and coating a few times to ensure thorough coverage.
- Serve: Allow the loaf to cool completely before slicing. Serve and enjoy your delicious Apple Cider Donut Loaf!
Notes
- Reducing the apple cider concentrates its flavor and prevents excess liquid in the batter.
- For easier removal of the loaf, lining the pan with parchment paper is recommended.
- Do not overmix the batter to keep the loaf light and tender.
- The cinnamon sugar coating adds the classic donut flavor and a sweet, crunchy crust.
- Ensure the eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
- This recipe contains gluten, eggs, and milk - not suitable for those with these allergies.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American