Apple Cider Donut Loaf Cake

In a small saucepan, bring 1 cup of apple cider to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until it has reduced by half, to about 1/2 cup. Set aside to cool completely.

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a standard loaf pan with parchment paper.

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, 2 tsp cinnamon, nutmeg, cardamom, and salt.

In a separate medium bowl, add the eggs, vegetable oil, applesauce, vanilla extract, brown sugar, and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar. Whisk until well combined.

Pour the cooled, reduced apple cider into the wet ingredients and whisk to combine.

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and whisk until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

In a small bowl, mix together 1/4 cup granulated sugar and 1 tbsp cinnamon for the topping.

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the top.

Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. While still warm, brush the top with melted butter.

Sprinkle the remaining cinnamon-sugar mixture over the buttered top.

Optional: For the glaze, whisk together powdered sugar and milk or apple cider until smooth. Drizzle over cooled slices before serving.

Slice and enjoy!