Name: Apple Cider Doughnut Loaf Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 90 min
Ingredients: 1 cup apple cider; 1/2 cup sour cream; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 large eggs (at room temperature); 3/4 cup brown sugar (lightly packed); 1 1/4 cups all purpose flour; 2 Tbsp cornstarch; 1 1/4 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp cinnamon; 1/4 tsp freshly grated nutmeg (more to taste); 3 Tbsp unsalted butter, melted; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 tsp cinnamon

Introduction to Apple Cider Doughnut Loaf Cake

The history of apple cider doughnuts

It’s hard to think of fall without envisioning those warm, spiced apple cider doughnuts fresh from the fryer, dusted in cinnamon sugar. Originating in New England, these delightful treats have become a staple at autumn festivals and apple orchards. There's a certain nostalgia attached to biting into that fluffy, sweet doughnut, evoking memories of visits to family farms and brisk evenings.

As the years went by, the allure of apple cider doughnuts expanded beyond traditional recipes, inspiring creative variations like the apple cider doughnut loaf cake. This cake combines the best aspects of those beloved doughnuts with a slightly denser, moist texture, making it perfect for gatherings or cozy weekends at home.

With a generous kiss of fresh apple cider, warm spices, and a sugary topping, this loaf cake brings comfort in every slice. It’s a delightful way to celebrate the fall harvest and satisfy your sweet tooth at the same time. If you love the idea of enjoying that classic flavor in a new format, then this recipe is just for you! So grab your ingredients, and let's dive into the world of apple cider goodness!

For more fascinating insights into the history of apple treats, check out this article.

Ingredients for Apple Cider Doughnut Loaf Cake

Key ingredients for a delicious loaf cake

To create a mouthwatering apple cider doughnut loaf cake, you’ll want to gather some key ingredients that work harmoniously together. Here’s what you need:

Apple cider: This rich, sweet liquid forms the base flavor. Be sure to boil it down for extra concentration!
Sour cream: It adds moisture and that delightful tanginess.
Unsalted butter: Melted to infuse the cake with richness.
Brown sugar: For caramel sweetness and depth.
Flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices: To provide structure and complementary flavors.

These ingredients will come together to create a soft, delightful loaf that truly sings of autumn flavors.

Optional add-ins for extra flavor

Want to elevate your loaf even further? Consider these optional add-ins:

Chopped apples: Adds texture and bursts of sweetness.
Chopped nuts: Pecans or walnuts bring a nice crunch.
Dried fruit: Like cranberries or raisins for a tart contrast.

Experimenting with different add-ins can make your apple cider doughnut loaf cake uniquely yours! Enjoy the baking journey!

Step-by-Step Preparation for Apple Cider Doughnut Loaf Cake

Making an apple cider doughnut loaf cake is a delightful adventure, especially during the cozy fall months. Follow these simple steps for a cake that’s bursting with flavor, perfect for breakfast or an afternoon treat.

Preheat your oven and prepare the loaf pan

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). This low temperature is key to achieving that soft, tender crumb everyone loves. While it heats, grab a 9×5 loaf pan and give it a light spray with cooking spray. For added protection against sticking, you can also line it with parchment paper, which makes it a breeze to lift the cake out later.

Reduce apple cider for maximum flavor

The star of our cake is, of course, the apple cider. Pour 1 cup of fresh apple cider into a small saucepan and bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. Allow it to bubble away for about 10 minutes, or until it reduces to about ½ cup. This process intensifies the flavor and sweetness of the cider, enhancing your apple cider doughnut loaf cake.

Mix wet ingredients until smooth

In a separate bowl, combine the reduced cider with ½ cup of sour cream and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Stir well until it's nice and smooth. Meanwhile, melt ½ cup of unsalted butter in the same saucepan you used for the cider—no need to dirty another bowl! Let it cool slightly before adding it to your next mixture to ensure everything blends well.

Blend dry ingredients for the perfect texture

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1¼ cups of all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons of cornstarch, 1¼ teaspoons of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, ½ teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of cinnamon, and ¼ teaspoon of freshly grated nutmeg. This blend of dry ingredients helps create a fluffy and wonderful texture in your cake.

Combine wet and dry ingredients carefully

Now comes the best part! Add the dry mixture to your bowl with the egg mixture, alternating with the cider/sour cream mix you've already prepared. Start and end with the dry ingredients—this technique ensures a well-mixed batter without overworking it, which can make your cake dense.

Bake the loaf cake to perfection

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and pop it in the oven. Let it bake for about 55 minutes—check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean. Remember, baking times can vary based on your pan's size.

Cool and prepare the delicious cinnamon sugar coating

Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan on a wire rack for approximately 10 minutes. Then, remove it using the parchment paper. While it cools, mix ¼ cup of granulated sugar with ½ teaspoon of cinnamon to create your delicious cinnamon sugar topping. Brush the warm loaf with melted butter and coat it generously in this mixture. This step adds that signature doughnut flavor, making your apple cider doughnut loaf cake unforgettable.

Now you have a fantastic loaf cake that captures the essence of fall! Enjoy it fresh, or store it covered at room temperature to savor later. Happy baking!

Variations on Apple Cider Doughnut Loaf Cake

Adding nuts for crunch

Elevate your apple cider doughnut loaf cake by incorporating nuts for that irresistible crunch! Chopped walnuts or pecans make excellent additions, providing texture and a nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweet cinnamon notes of the cake. Simply fold in about ½ cup of your favorite nuts into the batter before pouring it into the loaf pan. You’ll not only enhance the cake’s flavor profile, but you'll also add a delightful surprise in every bite.

Incorporating seasonal spices

To really make your apple cider doughnut loaf cake sing, consider adding seasonal spices! Ground ginger, allspice, or even a hint of cloves can bring warmth and depth to your cake. Just a quarter teaspoon of each can create a cozy aroma and taste that embodies the essence of fall. Remember, spices can be quite potent, so start with a little and adjust to your preference. This way, you create a unique version that suits your palate perfectly!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Apple Cider Doughnut Loaf Cake

Ensuring the cake stays moist

To keep your apple cider doughnut loaf cake delightfully moist, it’s essential to use room temperature ingredients, especially the eggs and sour cream, as they incorporate better. Also, allow the apple cider to simmer down to concentrate its flavor, adding depth while maintaining moisture. Remember to bake the cake at a lower temperature of 325°F; this slow cook promotes a tender crumb.

Tips for perfecting the cinnamon sugar coating

For that irresistible cinnamon sugar crust, brush the warm loaf with melted butter before coating it generously with the cinnamon sugar mixture. Feel free to combine your sugar and spice to create a unique twist! Aim for a thick layer, which not only enhances flavor but also offers that signature doughnut charm. Press the sugar firmly onto the sides as well for an all-around treat!

Serving Suggestions for Apple Cider Doughnut Loaf Cake

Pairing with Beverages

To enhance the delightful flavors of your apple cider doughnut loaf cake, consider pairing it with warm beverages. A steaming cup of hot chai or spiced apple cider complements the cake's warmth perfectly. If you're looking for something a bit different, a creamy latte or a chai tea latte can elevate your coffee break. For a non-caffeinated option, herbal teas such as cinnamon or chamomile provide a soothing contrast, balancing the cake's sweetness beautifully.

Best Occasions for Serving

Your apple cider doughnut loaf cake is the ideal treat for a variety of occasions! Think cozy autumn gatherings, brunch with friends, or a delightful afternoon snack. It’s also perfect for celebrating festive holidays, like Thanksgiving, where it can double as an inviting dessert. Finally, sharing a slice while catching up with loved ones makes every moment special, turning an ordinary day into a cherished memory.

Feeling inspired? You can check out more beverage pairing ideas at Chowhound.

Time Breakdown for Apple Cider Doughnut Loaf Cake

Preparation time

Get ready to dive into the deliciousness! You’ll need about 15 minutes to gather and prepare your ingredients, including boiling the apple cider for that rich flavor.

Baking time

Once your batter is ready, pop it in the oven for approximately 55 minutes. Keep a close eye during the last few minutes to ensure a perfect bake!

Total time

In total, you’re looking at around 1 hour and 10 minutes from start to finish. This includes prepping, baking, and cooling. Perfect for a cozy afternoon treat!

So, are you ready to get started on your apple cider doughnut loaf cake? Follow along, and you’ll have a scrumptious dessert that’s perfect for sharing (or maybe keeping all to yourself). If you’re curious about more baking tips, check out this guide on baking essentials. Happy baking!

Nutritional Facts for Apple Cider Doughnut Loaf Cake

When indulging in a slice of this delightful apple cider doughnut loaf cake, it's essential to know what you're treating yourself to. Here’s a quick look at its nutritional profile:

Calories

Each slice packs around 307 calories, a satisfying treat that won't derail your day.

Sugar Content

With 24 grams of sugar, it's sweet enough to crave yet balanced enough for a breakfast option or afternoon snack.

Dietary Fiber

While not a significant source, you’ll find 1 gram of dietary fiber in each slice, contributing to your daily intake and promoting digestion.

For more detailed insights on nutrition, templates like NutritionData can be quite handy. Enjoy responsibly!

FAQ about Apple Cider Doughnut Loaf Cake

Can I use different types of sugar?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for brown sugar, you can experiment with other types like granulated or coconut sugar. Just keep in mind that each will impart a slightly different flavor and texture to your apple cider doughnut loaf cake. Granulated sugar will make it lighter, while coconut sugar will add a richer, caramel-like note.

How can I store leftover loaf cake?
To preserve the delightfulness of your apple cider doughnut loaf cake, wrap it loosely in foil and store it at room temperature. If you want to keep it fresh for longer, consider refrigerating it in an airtight container. It should stay delicious for about 3-4 days, but I doubt it will last that long!

What’s the best way to reheat the loaf?
For the ultimate warm slice, pop your apple cider doughnut loaf cake in a microwave for about 15-20 seconds. If you prefer a crisp edge, try toasting it lightly in a conventional oven for about 5 minutes at 350°F. Enjoy every bite as if it just came out of the oven!

Conclusion on Apple Cider Doughnut Loaf Cake

In conclusion, this apple cider doughnut loaf cake is the perfect blend of cozy flavors that captures the essence of autumn. Easy to bake and delightful to share, it will surely become a staple in your kitchen. Try it warm, and let your taste buds enjoy the magic!