There’s something undeniably comforting about the aroma of cinnamon sugar filling your kitchen. Whether it’s a batch of freshly baked donuts or a warm loaf of bread, that familiar scent brings back childhood memories of cozy mornings and sweet indulgences. If you love the taste of classic cinnamon sugar donuts but want something easier to make at home, Cinnamon Donut Bread is the perfect solution! This soft, moist, and buttery loaf has all the flavors of a cinnamon sugar donut but in the form of a sliceable, shareable bread.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No Frying Required – Get the taste of donuts without the mess of deep frying.
- Soft & Moist Texture – The perfect balance of fluffy and dense with a tender crumb.
- Sweet Cinnamon Sugar Topping – That classic donut coating in every bite!
- Easy to Make – No yeast, no kneading, just mix, bake, and enjoy.
- Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for breakfast, brunch, dessert, or as a snack.
Ingredients: What You’ll Need
Here’s everything required to make Cinnamon Donut Bread from scratch.
For the Bread
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Canola oil | ¼ cup |
| Unsalted butter | ¼ cup (softened) |
| White sugar | 1 cup |
| Eggs | 2 large |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon |
| All-purpose flour | 1 ½ cups |
| Baking powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Buttermilk | ½ cup |
| Ground cinnamon | ½ teaspoon |
| Molasses | ½ teaspoon |
For the Topping
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Unsalted butter | ½ cup (melted) |
| White sugar | ¼ cup |
| Light brown sugar | ¼ cup |
| Ground cinnamon | ½ teaspoon |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Batter
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, canola oil, and white sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
- Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients.
- Stir in the molasses until the batter is smooth and fully combined.
3. Bake the Bread
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
4. Prepare the Topping
- While the bread cools, melt the butter in a small bowl.
- In another bowl, mix together the white sugar, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
5. Coat the Bread
- Brush the top of the cooled bread generously with melted butter.
- Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the top. For extra flavor, coat the sides as well.
Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Donut Bread
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients – This helps create a smooth batter with even mixing.
- Don’t Overmix – Mix until just combined to avoid dense bread.
- Check for Doneness – Insert a toothpick; if it comes out clean, the bread is done.
- Let It Cool Before Coating – If the bread is too warm, the butter and cinnamon sugar may soak in too much.
Serving Suggestions
This delicious bread pairs well with:
- A cup of coffee or tea – The warm spices make it a perfect morning treat.
- Vanilla ice cream – Serve a slice with a scoop for a decadent dessert.
- Whipped cream – A light topping for an extra touch of indulgence.
- Cream cheese spread – Adds a tangy balance to the sweetness.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 Slice) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280-320 |
| Protein | 4g |
| Carbohydrates | 40g |
| Fats | 12g |
| Sugar | 18g |
Note: Values may vary based on portion size and ingredient variations.
FAQs About Cinnamon Donut Bread
1. Can I Make This Bread Ahead of Time?
Yes! This bread stays fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature when stored in an airtight container.
2. Can I Freeze Cinnamon Donut Bread?
Absolutely! Wrap the cooled loaf in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
3. What If I Don’t Have Buttermilk?
No problem! Make a buttermilk substitute by mixing ½ cup of milk with ½ tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
4. Can I Make This Into Muffins Instead of a Loaf?
Yes! Divide the batter into a muffin tin lined with cupcake liners and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 18-22 minutes.
5. How Can I Make This Bread Healthier?
Try these swaps:
- Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose.
- Reduce sugar by ¼ cup.
- Replace half of the butter with unsweetened applesauce.
6. What’s the Best Way to Reheat This Bread?
Warm slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or toast lightly in the oven for a crispy texture.
Final Thoughts & Call to Action
If you love the taste of cinnamon sugar donuts but want an easier, homemade option, Cinnamon Donut Bread is a must-try! It’s soft, sweet, and packed with warm, comforting flavors that make every bite irresistible.
Now it’s your turn! Try this recipe and let us know how it turned out. Did you add your own twist? Leave a comment or share your version with friends and family!
Looking for more delicious recipes? Stay tuned for more baking inspiration and easy-to-make treats!