Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread: A Sweet Delight Awaits!

Few things are as comforting and irresistible as the aroma of freshly baked cinnamon sugar treats filling your kitchen. Imagine that warmth and sweetness captured in a soft, moist loaf — that’s exactly what Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread delivers. This delightful recipe combines the tender crumb of classic quick bread with the nostalgic flavors of cinnamon sugar-coated donuts, making it the perfect breakfast, snack, or dessert.

Whether you’re serving it for a cozy weekend brunch, bringing it to a gathering, or just craving a sweet treat with your afternoon coffee, this bread is easy to make, fun to share, and guaranteed to please both kids and adults alike.

In this article, you’ll find everything you need to know to bake this sweet delight from scratch — from ingredient tips to step-by-step instructions, plus helpful FAQs to ensure your bread turns out perfect every time.

🍽️ Ingredients at a Glance

Dry Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 cup granulated sugar

Wet Ingredients

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Topping Mixture

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

🔪 Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a standard 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray, and optionally line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, ground cinnamon, and 1 cup of granulated sugar. This ensures even distribution of the leavening and spices.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Eggs

In a separate mixing bowl, cream the softened butter until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to combine fully.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Add the vanilla extract and milk to the butter and egg mixture, stirring until just combined. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding gently with a spatula or spoon. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay. Overmixing can lead to a dense bread.

Step 5: Pour and Smooth Batter

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top evenly with a spatula.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

Bake in the preheated oven for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on the bread; oven times can vary.

Step 7: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Topping

While the bread bakes, combine the remaining 1/2 cup granulated sugar with 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon in a shallow dish.

Step 8: Coat the Warm Bread

Once the bread is out of the oven, allow it to cool for about 10 minutes—just enough to handle without burning your fingers. Carefully invert the loaf onto a cooling rack.

While still warm, brush the loaf lightly with melted butter (optional, but recommended for better sugar adhesion), then sprinkle or roll the loaf generously in the cinnamon sugar mixture, coating the top and sides for that classic donut flavor.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Let the bread cool completely before slicing to prevent crumbling. Serve as is or with a spread of butter or cream cheese for an extra indulgence.

💡 Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread

• Use room temperature butter and eggs for better mixing and texture.
• Do not overmix the batter — it should be a bit lumpy for a tender crumb.
• Test doneness with a toothpick rather than relying on time alone.
• Brush with melted butter before the cinnamon sugar coating for a stickier, more authentic donut crust.
• Store properly: Keep the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose?

Yes, but replace only half the flour with whole wheat for best results. Whole wheat can make the bread denser, so you might need a little extra milk.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

You can substitute the eggs with flax or chia egg replacers and use plant-based milk and butter alternatives, but texture and flavor will vary.

How do I store leftover bread?

Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or keep in an airtight container at room temperature. For longer storage, freeze sliced portions wrapped well.

Can I add mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Fold in ½ cup of chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or even dried fruit after combining the wet and dry ingredients for extra texture and flavor.

Is this bread sweet enough?

Yes, the sugar in the batter plus the cinnamon sugar coating provides a balanced sweetness that’s reminiscent of donuts but not overpowering.

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📝 Final Thoughts

Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread is a nostalgic treat that combines the best of two worlds: the comforting softness of homemade bread and the beloved flavors of cinnamon sugar donuts. It’s simple enough for beginner bakers, yet delicious enough to impress guests or satisfy your sweet tooth.

This recipe is a perfect way to make your kitchen smell like a bakery and to enjoy a homemade indulgence without the need for frying or complicated techniques.

So why wait? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready for a sweet delight that your family and friends will love!