If you’re a fan of cinnamon donuts and love the soft texture of homemade bread, this Cinnamon Swirl Donut Loaf is the perfect fusion of both. With a light, fluffy dough enriched with buttery sweetness and a generous cinnamon-sugar coating, this bread mimics the taste of a classic cinnamon donut while being as easy to slice as a loaf of bread. It’s perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a cozy snack with coffee. The warm cinnamon aroma that fills your kitchen while baking will make this a family favorite in no time!
Ingredients:
For the Bread:
- 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1 cup (240 ml) warm milk (about 110°F / 45°C)
- ¼ cup (50 g) granulated sugar
- ¼ cup (60 g) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 4 cups (500 g) all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
- ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- ¼ cup (60 g) unsalted butter, melted (for brushing)
Instructions:
- Activate the Yeast:
- In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until the mixture becomes frothy and bubbly. This means the yeast is activated and ready to work its magic in your dough.
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, melted butter, and eggs until well combined.
- Add the frothy yeast mixture to the bowl and stir to incorporate.
- Slowly add the flour and salt, mixing with a wooden spoon or using a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment.
- Knead the dough by hand on a lightly floured surface for about 8-10 minutes, or let the stand mixer knead it on low speed for about 5 minutes, until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Shape the Dough:
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface and shape it into a loaf by rolling it into a rectangle and folding the edges inward, tucking them under to create a tight loaf shape.
- Place the dough into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan, cover it again, and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes.
- Bake the Loaf:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Once the dough has risen and looks puffy, bake the loaf for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Remove from the oven and let the loaf cool slightly in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
- In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon.
- Brush the melted butter all over the top and sides of the warm loaf.
- Generously sprinkle or roll the loaf in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until fully coated. If desired, you can double-dip the loaf in the coating for an extra sweet and crunchy exterior.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Slice the Cinnamon Swirl Donut Loaf and enjoy! The soft, buttery interior with the crispy, cinnamon-sugar coating creates the perfect balance of sweetness and warmth. This loaf is ideal for serving with morning coffee, an afternoon tea, or as a special breakfast treat.
Conclusion:
This Cinnamon Swirl Donut Loaf brings together the best of both worlds—donut flavors in a comforting loaf form. The fluffy, airy bread combined with the cinnamon-sugar crust is both nostalgic and satisfying. It’s easy enough to bake at home, making it a perfect weekend project or a special homemade gift for loved ones. Every slice is packed with flavor and is sure to become a regular request at your family table.