Introduction
There’s something magical about the combination of cinnamon and sugar. Whether it’s sprinkled on toast, swirled into coffee, or dusted over warm pastries, this classic flavor combination evokes a sense of comfort and nostalgia. Enter Cinnamon Donut Bread—a delightful hybrid between a cake-style donut and a quick bread.
This moist, tender loaf is packed with warm spices, lightly sweetened, and topped with a buttery cinnamon-sugar crust reminiscent of a classic cinnamon sugar donut. It’s the perfect baked treat for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or even dessert. If you love the flavors of a cinnamon donut but want the convenience of making a simple loaf, this recipe is for you.
In this article, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about making this irresistible bread, from the essential ingredients to step-by-step baking instructions, storage tips, and even creative variations to customize your loaf.
Ingredients
Before you begin baking, gather all the necessary ingredients. This recipe uses simple pantry staples, making it easy to whip up whenever a craving strikes.
A. Bread Base
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – The structure of the bread. You can substitute with whole wheat flour for a heartier texture.
- 1 cup granulated sugar – Provides sweetness and moisture.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder – Helps the bread rise and gives it a light texture.
- ½ teaspoon baking soda – Works with the buttermilk to create a soft and fluffy crumb.
- ½ teaspoon salt – Balances the flavors and enhances the cinnamon.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – The star spice that gives the bread its warm, cozy flavor.
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg (optional) – Adds an extra layer of warmth and depth.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted – Gives the bread richness and tenderness.
- 2 large eggs – Provides structure and binds the ingredients together.
- 1 cup buttermilk (or milk + 1 tbsp vinegar) – Adds moisture and tang, making the bread soft.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor with a sweet aroma.
B. Cinnamon Sugar Topping
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted – Helps the cinnamon-sugar coating stick to the bread.
- ½ cup granulated sugar – Creates the classic cinnamon donut coating.
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon – The key to that irresistible, spiced topping.
Instructions
Making cinnamon donut bread is simple and rewarding. Follow these steps for the best results.
A. Preparing the Batter
- Preheat the oven – Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray.
- Mix dry ingredients – In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This ensures even distribution of ingredients.
- Combine wet ingredients – In another bowl, whisk together the melted butter, eggs, buttermilk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Mix wet and dry ingredients – Slowly pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the bread dense.
- Pour into pan – Transfer the batter to the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly.
B. Baking the Bread
- Bake – Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool slightly – Let the bread rest in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
C. Coating with Cinnamon Sugar
- Brush with melted butter – While the bread is still warm, generously brush the top with melted butter.
- Mix cinnamon-sugar topping – In a small bowl, combine the sugar and cinnamon.
- Sprinkle over the loaf – Evenly coat the top of the bread with the cinnamon-sugar mixture, pressing lightly so it sticks.
The result? A beautifully golden-brown loaf with a sweet, crunchy topping that mimics the taste and texture of a classic cinnamon donut.
Serving and Storage
A. How to Serve Cinnamon Donut Bread
- Serve slices warm or at room temperature for the best texture and flavor.
- Pair with a cup of coffee, tea, or a glass of milk for a comforting treat.
- Warm slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to recreate that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.
- Drizzle with maple syrup or a simple glaze for an extra indulgence.
B. Storage Tips
- At Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- In the Refrigerator: Keeps fresh for up to 1 week when wrapped tightly in plastic wrap.
- Freezing: Wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will keep for up to 2 months. Simply thaw and warm before serving.
Variations and Customizations
While this cinnamon donut bread is perfect as is, you can get creative with different variations. Here are some fun ideas:
1. Glazed Cinnamon Donut Bread
For a more decadent version, drizzle a simple glaze over the bread:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk or cream
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Mix these ingredients until smooth and pour over the cooled bread.
2. Cinnamon Swirl Bread
- Before baking, mix ¼ cup brown sugar with 1 teaspoon cinnamon and swirl it into the batter for a marbled effect.
3. Healthier Version
- Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour.
- Replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar or honey.
- Swap butter for Greek yogurt to reduce fat content.
4. Add-ins for Extra Texture
- Mix in ½ cup chopped nuts (pecans, walnuts, or almonds) for crunch.
- Add ½ cup raisins or chocolate chips for an extra layer of flavor.
Conclusion
Cinnamon Donut Bread is the perfect fusion of a fluffy cake donut and a moist quick bread. With its simple ingredients, easy preparation, and irresistible cinnamon-sugar topping, it’s bound to become a household favorite. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, as an afternoon treat, or as a comforting dessert, this bread delivers pure joy in every bite.
Try this recipe and make it your own with creative variations. Whether you keep it classic or add a personal twist, one thing is certain—your kitchen will be filled with the warm, inviting aroma of cinnamon, making every bite even more special.
Happy baking! 🍞✨
