There is something utterly magical about the warm, cinnamon-scented embrace of the Cinnamon Donut Bread Recipe that makes it an instant favorite for anyone who loves that perfect balance of sweet and spice. This delightful loaf captures the essence of a classic cinnamon sugar donut in the form of a soft, tender bread, baked to golden perfection with a crackling cinnamon sugar topping that’ll have you reaching for seconds — or thirds! Whether you’re serving it up for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy afternoon treat, this bread is a comforting, inviting slice of joy that’s impossible to resist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Cinnamon Donut Bread Recipe plays a crucial role in creating the ideal texture, flavor, and aroma. From the fragrant cinnamon and nutmeg to the moist richness of butter or oil, these simple components come together to craft something truly special.
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure for the bread, keeping it light yet sturdy.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder: Gives the bread that perfect rise and fluffy texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: The star spice that infuses warm, aromatic flavor throughout the bread.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds a hint of depth and spice complexity.
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil or melted butter: Keeps the bread moist and tender; butter provides extra richness.
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the bread and creates a hint of caramelization during baking.
- 1 large egg, room temperature: Binds the ingredients and adds tenderness.
- 1/2 cup milk: Adds moisture and helps achieve the perfect consistency.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the cinnamon flavor with smooth, sweet notes.
- 1/3 cup melted butter for topping: Creates a luscious base for the cinnamon sugar crust.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar for topping: The essential sweet coating that sings in every bite.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon for topping: Final burst of cinnamon flavor that makes the bread irresistible.
How to Make Cinnamon Donut Bread Recipe
Step 1: Prepare your oven and pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×5-inch loaf pan thoroughly. This ensures your Cinnamon Donut Bread will bake evenly and release effortlessly after baking.
Step 2: Mix your dry ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Combining these first not only distributes the spices evenly but also ensures the leavening agent is ready to give your bread its wonderful rise.
Step 3: Whisk the wet ingredients
In a separate large bowl, blend the oil or melted butter with sugar until fully combined for a smooth base. Beat in the egg, then add milk and vanilla extract. This mixture creates the rich, moist foundation your bread needs to be soft and tender.
Step 4: Bring it all together
Slowly stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, folding gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix here since that can make the bread tough rather than fluffy and soft.
Step 5: Bake the bread
Pour the batter evenly into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The scent filling your kitchen at this stage is simply divine!
Step 6: Add the cinnamon sugar topping
Once out of the oven, allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then remove it carefully and place on a wire rack. While still warm, brush the top generously with melted butter. In a small bowl, combine the topping sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle it evenly across the buttered surface to create the signature cinnamon sugar crust.
How to Serve Cinnamon Donut Bread Recipe
Garnishes
Nothing beats serving this Cinnamon Donut Bread with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of warm vanilla glaze. For an extra indulgent touch, a dollop of whipped cream or a spread of cream cheese frosting complements it beautifully without overpowering those warm cinnamon notes.
Side Dishes
This bread pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee, chai tea, or even a frothy latte. For brunch, try serving alongside fresh fruit like berries or sliced apples to introduce a refreshing contrast to the sweet, cinnamon richness.
Creamy Ways to Present
Try slicing the loaf thickly and toasting the pieces before slathering with honey butter or your favorite nut butter. For a fun twist, transform leftover slices into French toast for a decadent weekend breakfast that keeps the spirit of the Cinnamon Donut Bread Recipe alive in every bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap any leftover bread tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container to keep it fresh for up to three days at room temperature. This helps maintain moisture and protects the delicate cinnamon sugar topping.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy your Cinnamon Donut Bread Recipe over a longer period, freezing is a great option. Wrap slices individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to two months, ready to thaw whenever your craving strikes.
Reheating
To revive the fresh-baked warmth, pop slices in the toaster or warm gently in the oven at 300°F for 5–10 minutes. You can brush on a little extra melted butter before reheating if you want to refresh that delicious cinnamon sugar crust.
FAQs
Can I use melted butter instead of oil in the batter?
Absolutely! Using melted butter instead of oil gives the bread a richer flavor and a slightly denser texture, which many cinnamon lovers appreciate. Just make sure it’s cooled slightly before mixing with the other ingredients.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend. Keep in mind that texture may vary slightly, but the warm cinnamon flavor will still shine through deliciously.
How do I keep the bread moist?
The key is not to overmix the batter and to use the appropriate amount of fat through oil or butter. Also, storing the bread in an airtight container helps lock in moisture and freshness.
Can I add nuts or raisins?
For sure! Fold in chopped pecans, walnuts, or raisins into the batter for extra texture and flavor. These additions give a delightful surprise that blends beautifully with the Cinnamon Donut Bread Recipe.
What’s the best way to slice this bread?
Use a serrated bread knife to cut thick, even slices without crushing the bread. Waiting until the bread cools a bit ensures cleaner cuts and a more enjoyable eating experience.
Final Thoughts
Making this Cinnamon Donut Bread Recipe is like inviting a cozy, sweet hug into your kitchen. With every bite, you get that perfect balance of soft, tender bread and the irresistible cinnamon sugar crunch we all crave. I truly encourage you to try this recipe—it’s simple, satisfying, and bound to become a beloved staple in your baking repertoire.
Print
Cinnamon Donut Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (about 10 slices)
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A deliciously moist and flavorful cinnamon donut bread that captures the classic taste of cinnamon sugar donuts in a homemade loaf. Perfectly spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg, and topped with a buttery cinnamon sugar glaze, this easy-to-make bread is ideal for breakfast, dessert, or a sweet snack.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Wet Ingredients
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil or melted butter
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Topping
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare the pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan thoroughly to ensure the bread does not stick.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg until evenly combined. Set aside.
- Combine wet ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the vegetable oil or melted butter with granulated sugar until the mixture is well blended. Beat in the egg, followed by the milk and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.
- Bake the bread: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the surface with a spatula. Place in the oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool and prepare the topping: Remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then transfer onto a wire rack. While still warm, brush the top generously with melted butter.
- Add cinnamon sugar topping: In a small bowl, combine the 1/2 cup granulated sugar with 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the buttered top of the warm loaf.
- Serve: Allow the bread to cool slightly before slicing into about 10 pieces. Serve warm for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- This bread is best enjoyed slightly warm to fully appreciate the cinnamon sugar flavor.
- For a richer taste, substitute vegetable oil with melted butter in the batter.
- Make sure not to overmix the batter to keep the bread light and tender.
- Brush the butter topping while the bread is still warm to help the cinnamon sugar stick well.
