Follow these steps, and you’ll have a loaf that captures the spirit of both tradition and flavor.

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Stir until well combined.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the apple cider, applesauce, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
5. If using, fold in the chopped walnuts or pecans.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
7. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.