It’s a chilly Sunday morning, and the aroma wafting through my kitchen feels like a warm hug from my childhood. That’s right; I’m baking a loaf of Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread, a cozy treat that brings back the magic of fresh donuts right at home. This easy-to-make recipe offers a delightful combo of sweetness and spice, making it perfect for breakfast or a comforting afternoon snack. Best of all, it’s a crowd-pleaser that can be whipped up in no time, giving you more moments to savor life’s simple pleasures. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or toasted to perfection the next day, every slice promises satisfaction. What’s one of your favorite ways to enjoy warm, sweet bread?
Why Is This Bread So Irresistible?
Comforting Nostalgia: This Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread brings the nostalgic joy of fresh donuts straight to your home.
Simplicity in Making: With just a few easy steps, anyone can create this delightful loaf using pantry staples.
Endless Customization: Feel free to mix in your favorite nuts or chocolate chips to make this treat uniquely yours!
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon pick-me-up, this bread shines at any time of the day.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: It’s an instant hit, bringing smiles to the whole family. Try pairing it with a warm cup of coffee or some homemade butter for a delightful treat. Additionally, if you love cinnamon flavors, check out our Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll for another cozy recipe!
Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread Ingredients
For the Batter
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure and body to the bread; for a gluten-free version, use a 1:1 baking blend.
- Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent for best results; make sure it’s fresh!
- Salt – Enhances flavors and balances sweetness; use sea salt or table salt interchangeably.
- Ground Cinnamon – Adds essential flavor and aroma; increase or decrease according to your taste.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the bread and contributes to its tender texture; substitute with brown sugar for a richer flavor.
- Unsalted Butter – Creates a rich, moist texture; can be replaced with margarine or coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
- Large Eggs – Bind ingredients and add moisture; for a vegan option, use flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water per egg).
- Milk – Adds moisture and richness; substitute with almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free option.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile; can swap for almond extract for a different twist.
For the Topping
- Cinnamon Sugar – A delightful mixture of granulated sugar and cinnamon that adds a sweet crust; adjust the ratios based on your sweetness preference.
This Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread is sure to become a beloved addition to your baking repertoire, so gather these ingredients and get ready to create a warm, comforting treat!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread:
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray. This will ensure your Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread releases easily after baking. Set the pan aside and get ready to mix your dry ingredients.
Step 2: Whisk Together Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. This combination will help create the structure of your bread and infuse it with that warm, familiar flavor. Once well-blended, set your dry mixture aside to focus on the wet ingredients.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In another large bowl, cream together ½ cup of unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, usually about 3-4 minutes using an electric mixer. This step incorporates air into the mixture, ensuring a soft texture in your Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread. Don't rush—take your time and enjoy the process!
Step 4: Add Eggs and Wet Ingredients
Next, add 2 large eggs to the creamed mixture, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Pour in ½ cup of milk and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, stirring until the batter is smooth and combined. Your batter should have a rich, inviting aroma as you blend these ingredients together.
Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures
Now, gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula or wooden spoon. Stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix, as this could toughen your Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread. You want the batter to be slightly lumpy but well-blended for the best texture.
Step 6: Layer the Batter
Pour half of the batter into the greased loaf pan, smoothing it into an even layer. Sprinkle half of the prepared cinnamon sugar topping generously over the batter. This will create a deliciously sweet layer in your bread. Follow this by pouring the remaining batter on top, completing the layering process.
Step 7: Final Touch and Swirl
Top your batter with the remaining cinnamon sugar, allowing it to create a glittering crust. Use a knife to gently swirl the topping into the batter, making sure not to mix it too thoroughly. This simple technique will elevate the flavor and appearance of your Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread once baked.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Slide the loaf pan into the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. You'll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, and the top is golden brown. Keep a keen eye on the baking progress, as this will ensure a perfectly baked loaf.
Step 9: Cool and Transfer
After baking, allow your Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This short resting period helps set the bread. Once cooled, gently transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully before slicing.
Storage Tips for Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread
Room Temperature: Keep the bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or placed in an airtight container to maintain freshness for up to 3 days.
Fridge: If you want to extend the life of your Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread, store it in the fridge, where it will last for up to a week. Just remember to wrap it well to prevent drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the bread for up to three months. Slice it beforehand for easy thawing. Wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer bag.
Reheating: To enjoy your bread warm, simply toast slices in the toaster or heat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Enjoy that cozy, fresh-baked flavor again!
Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread: Customization Ideas
Get creative with your baking by making this delightful Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread truly your own!
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Nutty Goodness: Stir in ½ cup of chopped walnuts, pecans, or even almonds for a delightful crunch. Nuts add an earthy dimension, enhancing the overall experience.
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Fruity Twist: Incorporate ½ cup of shredded apples or mashed bananas for a hint of natural sweetness and moisture. The fruity goodness will meld beautifully with the cinnamon.
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Chocolate Lovers: Add ½ cup of mini chocolate chips to the batter for a gooey, decadent surprise in every slice. The sweetness of chocolate perfectly complements the cinnamon notes!
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Dairy-Free Delight: Swap out regular milk for almond or coconut milk, and use coconut oil instead of butter for an entirely dairy-free treat without sacrificing flavor.
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Almond Extract: For a unique flavor twist, replace vanilla extract with almond extract; it adds a delightful depth that pairs wonderfully with cinnamon.
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Pumpkin Spice Variation: Mix in 1 cup of pumpkin puree and a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice for a seasonal twist that’ll warm your heart and home. For something similar, don’t miss our tasty Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll.
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Glazed Finish: Create a simple glaze with powdered sugar and a little milk, then drizzle over the cooled bread for an extra sweet touch that’s irresistible.
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Spicy Kick: Enhance the flavor profile by adding a pinch of cayenne or nutmeg for a surprising kick that dances with the cinnamon. This bold twist will have everyone coming back for another slice!
Expert Tips for Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your baking powder is fresh; expired leavening agents can lead to a dense loaf.
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Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined to keep your Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread tender and fluffy; overmixing can make it tough.
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Swirl Wisely: When swirling the cinnamon sugar into the batter, use a gentle hand to avoid fully mixing it in; this creates beautiful marbled layers.
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Cool Correctly: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack, preventing a soggy bottom and enhancing texture.
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Customize Your Flavors: Feel free to add nuts or chocolate chips to the batter for a unique twist—experimenting is part of the fun!
What to Serve with Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread
Indulge in a delightful spread of flavors that perfectly complement this sweet, spiced delight.
- Creamy Coffee: The rich, bold flavors of coffee enhance the sweetness of the bread, making each bite even more comforting.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing contrast, balancing out the sweet richness of the bread.
- Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream provides a luscious topping that elevates each slice to a gourmet treat.
- Warm Maple Syrup: Drizzling warm syrup over a slice transforms your bread into a luxurious breakfast, reminiscent of French toast.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy ice cream adds a delightful chill and sweetness, making it an irresistible dessert option for warm slices.
- Nutty Granola: Crunchy granola sprinkled on top gives a delightful texture contrast, perfect for brunch or an afternoon snack.
- Hot Cocoa: A steaming mug of cocoa creates a snug pairing for chilly evenings, enhancing the cozy bakery feel of your treat.
- Homemade Butter: Slathering on a dollop of rich, homemade butter increases the indulgence, adding layers of flavor to every slice.
- Spiced Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai beautifully complement the cinnamon flavor, creating an inviting beverage choice for any time of day.
- Chocolate Glaze Drizzle: For those with a sweet tooth, a quick drizzle of chocolate glaze brings a decadent, dessert-worthy twist to your cinnamon bread.
Make Ahead Options
These Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread loaves are perfect for busy meal prep! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. Additionally, you can also pre-measure and combine your dry ingredients and refrigerate them, simplifying the process even further when you're ready to bake. Just be sure to let the batter come to room temperature before pouring it into the greased loaf pan. When you’re ready to bake, simply follow the remaining steps and enjoy warm, comforting slices that taste just as delicious as when freshly made! For longer storage, bake and then wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or foil; it will stay good for up to 3 days at room temperature or can be frozen for up to three months.
Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select ripe ingredients for this Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread?
Absolutely! For the best results, use fresh ingredients. Ensure your baking powder is active and check the expiration date on milk and eggs. Choose unsalted butter that is at room temperature for easy creaming, and make sure your cinnamon is fragrant, as this will greatly enhance the flavor of the bread.
How should I store leftover Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread?
For optimal freshness, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it, where it will last about a week. Just remember to wrap it well to prevent it from drying out!
Can I freeze Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread, and how?
Yes, you can! This bread freezes beautifully. To freeze, slice the bread after it has completely cooled. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and place them into a resealable freezer bag. This method helps prevent freezer burn, and the bread will stay fresh for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw the slices at room temperature for a couple of hours or toast them directly from frozen!
What if my bread turns out dense or soggy?
No worries! If you find that your bread is dense, it’s likely due to overmixing the batter; always mix just until combined. If your bread is soggy in the middle, it might need a little more time in the oven. Insert a toothpick to check for doneness; if it comes out with wet batter, bake it for an additional 5-10 minutes. Keeping a close eye on your baking time and checking for doneness will help you bake a perfect loaf every time.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of for this recipe?
Very! If you or your loved ones have dietary restrictions, this Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread offers easy substitutions. For a dairy-free version, substitute with almond milk and use margarine or coconut oil in place of butter. To make it vegan, use flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) and almond milk instead of regular milk. Always double-check for potential allergies with any specific ingredients you use!
Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread: Your New Favorite Cozy Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray.
- Whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon in a mixing bowl.
- Cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in milk and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
- Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan and sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar topping over it.
- Pour the remaining batter on top and sprinkle with the remaining cinnamon sugar.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean and the top is golden brown.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
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