Cinnamon Donut Bread: A Sweet & Spiced Treat
Introduction
Few things in life bring as much comfort as the aroma of freshly baked cinnamon donuts. Now, imagine that same warm, spiced sweetness in a loaf of bread! Cinnamon Donut Bread combines the best of both worlds—a moist, flavorful bread with the classic taste of a cinnamon-sugar donut. Whether you’re baking for a cozy breakfast, a mid-day treat, or a sweet gift for a loved one, this recipe is sure to impress.
In this article, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about making the perfect Cinnamon Donut Bread, including ingredient breakdowns, step-by-step instructions, pro tips, variations, and even storage solutions. Let’s dive in!
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create this mouthwatering treat, gather the following ingredients:
Dry Ingredients:
2 cups all-purpose flour – The base of the bread, giving it structure.
1 cup granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and helps with moisture.
2 teaspoons baking powder – Provides the bread with a light rise.
1 teaspoon baking soda – Works with the baking powder for a tender texture.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – The key spice for that signature donut flavor.
½ teaspoon salt – Enhances the flavors and balances sweetness.
Wet Ingredients:
2 large eggs – Helps bind the ingredients and gives the bread a rich texture.
1 cup buttermilk – Adds moisture and a slight tangy flavor.
¼ cup melted butter – Provides richness and that irresistible buttery taste.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor.
Cinnamon-Sugar Topping:
¼ cup granulated sugar – For the sweet coating.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Adds extra warmth and spice.
2 tablespoons melted butter – Helps the cinnamon-sugar topping stick.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat & Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray. If desired, line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2️⃣ Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
3️⃣ Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, buttermilk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4️⃣ Mix Everything Together
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring gently with a spatula or wooden spoon. Mix until just combined—do not overmix, as this can make the bread dense. The batter will be thick and slightly lumpy, which is perfect!
5️⃣ Bake the Bread
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6️⃣ Prepare the Topping
While the bread is baking, mix ¼ cup sugar and 1 teaspoon cinnamon in a small bowl.
7️⃣ Apply the Cinnamon-Sugar Coating
Once the bread is done baking, let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Brush the top and sides with melted butter, then sprinkle generously with the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Let the bread cool completely before slicing.
Tips for the Best Cinnamon Donut Bread
✔ Use room temperature ingredients – This ensures even mixing and better texture.
✔ Don’t overmix the batter – Stir just until combined to avoid a tough loaf.
✔ Test for doneness – Ovens vary, so check with a toothpick at the 45-minute mark.
✔ Let the bread cool before slicing – This helps it set and keeps the crumb moist.
Flavor Variations
Love experimenting? Try these fun variations!
✨ Cinnamon Swirl: Mix ¼ cup brown sugar with 1 teaspoon cinnamon and swirl it into the batter before baking.
✨ Maple Glaze: Drizzle the loaf with a maple glaze (powdered sugar + maple syrup) for extra indulgence.
✨ Chocolate Chip Donut Bread: Fold ½ cup chocolate chips into the batter for a sweet surprise.
How to Store Cinnamon Donut Bread
🍞 Room Temperature
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
❄️ Refrigerator
Keeps fresh for up to 1 week when stored in the fridge.
🧊 Freezer
Wrap in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Final Thoughts
Cinnamon Donut Bread is a deliciously simple treat that brings the flavors of a classic cinnamon sugar donut into a soft, moist loaf. Whether you enjoy it with coffee, tea, or as a dessert, this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your home.
📌 Have you tried this recipe? Let me know your thoughts in the comments below!