Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread: A Sweet Delight Awaits!

There’s something undeniably comforting about the warm aroma of cinnamon and sugar wafting through the kitchen. From cinnamon rolls to churros, this classic flavor pairing has stood the test of time for good reason—it’s cozy, nostalgic, and irresistibly delicious. Now imagine capturing the essence of a freshly fried cinnamon donut in the form of a moist, tender loaf of bread. That’s exactly what you get with this Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread: a treat that’s part cake, part quick bread, and completely delightful.

This recipe is perfect for anyone who craves the indulgence of donuts but doesn’t want the fuss of frying. It’s baked like a simple loaf, but every bite delivers the sweet, spiced satisfaction of a freshly made donut. Whether you’re baking for a lazy weekend brunch, a cozy afternoon snack, or a dessert to impress guests, this bread is guaranteed to become a household favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Before we dive into the details, let’s talk about why this Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread deserves a spot in your recipe collection:

• Simple Ingredients: Everything you need is likely already in your pantry—flour, sugar, cinnamon, eggs, butter, and milk.
• Easy Method: No yeast, no kneading, and no special equipment. If you can mix and stir, you can make this bread.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy it for breakfast with a cup of coffee, as a snack with tea, or as an after-dinner dessert.
• Incredible Aroma: Your home will smell like a cozy bakery while it bakes, making it hard to wait until it’s ready.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the ingredients and why each one is essential to achieving that signature cinnamon-donut flavor and texture.

• 3 cups all-purpose flour – The base of the bread, giving it structure and a tender crumb.
• 1 tablespoon baking powder – Helps the bread rise beautifully without yeast.
• 1 teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the warm cinnamon flavor.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Adds that unmistakable spice to the batter.
• 1 cup granulated sugar – Provides sweetness and moisture to the bread itself.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened – Gives richness and a soft, buttery texture. Make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
• 2 large eggs – Bind the ingredients together and add structure.
• 1 cup milk – Keeps the bread moist and tender. Whole milk is ideal, but any milk will work.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds a subtle, sweet aroma that pairs perfectly with cinnamon.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for topping) – Creates the sweet, crunchy finish.
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (for topping) – Intensifies the cinnamon-sugar crust.

Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Pan

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

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon until evenly combined. This step ensures the baking powder and cinnamon are distributed throughout the batter, preventing clumps and ensuring even flavor.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a separate bowl, use an electric mixer (or a sturdy wooden spoon) to cream together the softened butter and 1 cup granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes. This process incorporates air into the batter, giving the bread a tender, cake-like texture.

Step 4: Add the Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs, one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Mix in the vanilla extract for a fragrant, bakery-style flavor.

Step 5: Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture in three parts, alternating with the milk in two parts. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix gently until just combined—overmixing can lead to dense bread.

Step 6: Fill the Pan

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. The batter will be thick, so take your time to spread it evenly.

Step 7: Add the Cinnamon-Sugar Topping

In a small bowl, combine the 1/2 cup granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture generously over the top of the batter, covering it completely. As the bread bakes, this topping will form a crisp, sweet crust reminiscent of a classic cinnamon donut.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown and your kitchen will smell heavenly.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Allow the bread to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm for a softer texture or at room temperature for a firmer, sliceable loaf.

Helpful Tips for Success

• Check Early: Ovens can vary, so start checking for doneness around the 50-minute mark. If the top is browning too quickly, cover it loosely with foil.
• Soft Butter is Key: Properly softened butter (not melted) is essential for creaming. It should be soft enough to press with a finger but not greasy.
• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can make the bread tough. Stir just until the ingredients are combined.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or wrap slices tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.

Variations and Add-Ins

While this recipe is perfect as written, here are some fun ways to customize your Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread:

• Nutty Crunch: Add 1/2 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts to the batter for extra texture.
• Glazed Finish: Drizzle a simple vanilla glaze (powdered sugar + milk + vanilla) over the cooled loaf for a donut-shop look.
• Chocolate Swirl: Add a handful of mini chocolate chips to the batter for a cinnamon-chocolate twist.
• Apple Cinnamon: Fold in 1 cup of finely diced apples for a cozy fall version.

Serving Suggestions

This bread is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of beverages and meals:

• Breakfast: Serve warm with a pat of butter and a hot cup of coffee or tea.
• Brunch Table Star: Slice it alongside fresh fruit, yogurt, and scrambled eggs for a decadent spread.
• Dessert: Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an after-dinner treat.
• Snack Time: Enjoy a slice on its own—it’s sweet and flavorful enough to stand alone.

Nutritional Information (Approximate Per Slice)

(Based on 10 slices)

• Calories: 280
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Sugars: 22g
• Protein: 4g

Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a high-quality gluten-free baking blend. Make sure it contains xanthan gum to help replicate the texture of traditional flour.

Q2: Can I use a different type of milk?
Absolutely. Whole milk provides the richest flavor, but you can use 2%, skim, or even plant-based milk like almond or oat. Keep in mind that non-dairy milk may slightly change the flavor and texture.

Q3: Can I reduce the sugar?
You can reduce the sugar in the batter to 3/4 cup if you prefer a less sweet loaf, but keep the cinnamon-sugar topping as is for that classic donut-like crust.

Q4: How do I know when the bread is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s ready. If the batter sticks, bake for an additional 5 minutes and check again.

Q5: Can I make this into muffins instead of a loaf?
Yes! Simply divide the batter into a 12-cup muffin tin lined with paper liners. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 18–22 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Q6: How long will this bread stay fresh?
When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, it will stay moist for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze tightly wrapped slices for up to 2 months.

Q7: Can I double the recipe?
Definitely! If you’re feeding a crowd, double the ingredients and bake in two loaf pans. Keep an eye on the baking time—it may vary slightly depending on your oven.

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Final Thoughts

This Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread is the perfect fusion of a soft, moist loaf and the irresistible flavor of a classic cinnamon donut. With its crisp cinnamon-sugar crust and tender crumb, it’s a recipe that feels both indulgent and comforting. Whether you’re baking it for a cozy breakfast, a holiday brunch, or a simple treat to brighten your week, this bread is sure to impress family and friends alike.

So go ahead, preheat that oven, and let the sweet smell of cinnamon fill your kitchen. One slice is never enough—you’ve been warned!