Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread (Easy Glazed Loaf Recipe)
If you love old-fashioned cake donuts but don’t want to fuss with frying, this Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread is about to become your new favorite bake. It has that soft, tender crumb, warm cinnamon spice, and sweet vanilla glaze you expect from a classic donut — all in an easy-to-make loaf.
This recipe comes together in just 10 minutes of prep and bakes into a beautifully golden loaf that fills your kitchen with the coziest aroma. It’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon coffee break.
Why I Love This Recipe
As a food writer, I’ve tested countless breakfast loaves, but this one truly captures that nostalgic donut-shop flavor without deep frying. The combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla creates a bakery-style experience right at home.
It’s:
- Quick and beginner-friendly
- Made with pantry staples
- Perfect for brunch spreads
- Easy to customize
- Incredibly moist and tender
Plus, that sweet cinnamon glaze? It’s the finishing touch that takes this loaf from simple to irresistible.
Ingredients
For the Donut Bread:
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- ½ cup milk
- ¼ cup vegetable oil
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup butter, melted
For the Glaze:
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- Pinch cinnamon
- Tiny splash of milk (just enough for drizzle consistency)
Ingredient Swaps & Notes
- Milk: Whole milk gives richness, but 2% or even almond milk works.
- Oil: Vegetable oil keeps the crumb moist. Melted coconut oil can be used instead.
- Nutmeg: Don’t skip it! That subtle warmth is key to that authentic donut-shop flavor.
- Extra Cinnamon: Love spice? Add an extra pinch to boost flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a standard loaf pan thoroughly to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg until evenly combined.
3. Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk milk, vegetable oil, egg, vanilla extract, and melted butter until smooth.
4. Combine Gently
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir just until combined. Do not overmix — this keeps the loaf soft and tender.
5. Bake to Golden Perfection
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Cool Properly
Let the loaf rest in the pan for 10 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack and allow it to cool completely before glazing.
7. Make the Glaze
Whisk powdered sugar with a pinch of cinnamon and just enough milk to create a smooth, drizzle-ready consistency.
8. Glaze & Serve
Drizzle the glaze over the cooled loaf and allow it to set before slicing.
Tips for Success
- Brush the warm loaf lightly with melted butter before glazing for that classic donut finish.
- Do not overbake — a slightly moist crumb keeps it soft like a true cake donut.
- For a thicker glaze, use less milk. For a thinner drizzle, add a few drops more.
- Let the loaf cool completely before glazing to avoid melting the icing.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
This cinnamon sugar donut bread is perfect with:
- A hot cup of coffee or chai
- A refreshing glass of This Blueberry Lemonade Is My Favorite Refreshing Drink for Sunny Days
- A full brunch spread alongside These Easy Pumpkin Spice Muffins Are My Favorite Fall Treat to Bake on Repeat
- A sweet finish after dinner with This Easy Ice Cream Sandwich Cake Is My Favorite No-Bake Summer Dessert
Hosting guests? Start with a savory appetizer like This Baked Brie Appetizer Is My Favorite Effortless Way to Impress Guests before serving this loaf for dessert.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate)
- Calories: 240
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 4g
- Sugar: 18g
Note: Values are estimates and may vary depending on exact ingredients used.
Storage & Leftover Tips
- Store covered at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerate for up to 5 days (bring to room temp before serving).
- Freeze unglazed slices for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly and thaw overnight.
For best results, glaze just before serving if freezing.
More Recipes You’ll Love
If you enjoy easy, cozy bakes like this one, don’t miss:
- These Easy Pumpkin Spice Muffins Are My Favorite Fall Treat to Bake on Repeat
- This Easy Ice Cream Sandwich Cake Is My Favorite No-Bake Summer Dessert
- This Blueberry Lemonade Is My Favorite Refreshing Drink for Sunny Days
- This Baked Brie Appetizer Is My Favorite Effortless Way to Impress Guests
Final Thoughts
This Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread is one of those recipes you’ll come back to again and again. It’s simple, comforting, and delivers that nostalgic donut flavor without any frying or mess. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just yourself, this loaf never disappoints.
If you make it, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Leave a comment, share your twist on the glaze, and follow along for more cozy, crowd-pleasing recipes from my kitchen to yours.
Happy baking!
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