Imagine combining the best parts of a warm, sugary cinnamon donut with the comforting ease of a soft, moist loaf. That’s exactly what you get with this incredible Cinnamon Donut Bread. It’s a sweet, tender bake infused with warm spices, crowned with a irresistible buttery cinnamon-sugar coating that tastes just like your favorite donut, all without the need for deep frying! This delightful treat is perfect for brightening any snack time, breakfast, or dessert.
Why I Love This Recipe
I’m a huge fan of creative bakes that transform classic flavors into something new and exciting. What I absolutely adore about this Cinnamon Donut Bread is its ingenious way of delivering that beloved donut shop experience in a simpler, loaf form. You get the incredible aroma of cinnamon and sugar filling your kitchen as it bakes, and the finished product is beautifully moist on the inside with that signature crunchy, sugary coating on the outside.
It’s surprisingly easy to make, making it a fantastic choice for a weekend baking project or even a special weeknight treat. The combination of simple ingredients yields a truly impressive result that appeals to everyone. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to satisfy a sweet craving without the fuss of individual donuts!
Ingredients
To create this cozy and delicious Cinnamon Donut Bread, you’ll need:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for bread)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar (for bread)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted (for bread)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup buttermilk
For the Donut Topping:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (for brushing)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for topping)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for topping)
Swaps and Notes
- Flour: All-purpose flour provides the perfect structure for this tender loaf.
- Cinnamon: Use good quality ground cinnamon for the best flavor. You can increase the amount slightly in the bread or topping if you prefer a very strong cinnamon flavor.
- Buttermilk: Buttermilk is key to the moist, tender crumb of this bread. If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can easily make a substitute: add 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice to 3/4 cup of regular milk (dairy or plant-based) and let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
- Butter: Unsalted butter is preferred for better control over the saltiness. Make sure the butter for the bread is melted and cooled slightly, and the butter for the topping is melted just before use.
- Sugar (for bread): Granulated sugar gives a classic sweetness.
- Topping Sugars: The blend of granulated sugar and cinnamon for the topping creates that quintessential donut finish. Don’t skip this step!
List of Steps for the Recipe
- Preheat Oven & Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan to ensure that your delicious creation doesn’t stick and releases easily after baking.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and salt until well combined. This blend is where the magic begins, ensuring even distribution of leavening and spice!
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, mix the 3/4 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 cup melted butter, eggs, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until you have a smooth, creamy mixture. Then, stir in the buttermilk. This will keep your bread super moist and tender!
- Combine Batter: Now, gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring with a spatula or wooden spoon until just incorporated. Remember, a little bit of lump is okay—avoid overmixing at this stage, as it can lead to a denser, tougher loaf. We want it fluffy, not tough!
- Bake the Loaf: Pour the batter evenly into your prepared loaf pan and pop it in the oven. Bake for about 50-60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a wooden skewer or toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean—oh, that golden crust and incredible aroma!
- Prepare Topping: While the bread is baking, prepare the topping. In one small bowl, mix the 1/2 cup granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon. In another small bowl, melt the 1/4 cup unsalted butter for brushing. It’s the little things that make a big difference!
- Coat & Cool: Once your bread is baked to perfection, allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully remove the loaf from the pan and transfer it to a wire rack. While still warm, generously brush the top and sides with the melted butter, and immediately sprinkle on the cinnamon sugar mixture—because who doesn’t love a little extra sweetness and crunch?
- Cool Completely & Serve: Let the loaf cool completely on the wire rack before slicing it. The aroma is almost too good to resist, but trust me, it’s worth the wait for the texture to set!
Enjoy your homemade Cinnamon Donut Bread as a delectable snack or a sweet addition to your breakfast. Happy baking!
Tips for Success
- Don’t Overmix: This is crucial for a tender, fluffy bread. Mix the wet and dry ingredients just until combined; a few lumps are fine.
- Grease Pan Well: A well-greased (or parchment-lined) pan ensures easy release and a beautiful crust.
- Warm Bread, Cold Topping: Applying the melted butter and cinnamon sugar to the warm bread allows it to soak in slightly and adhere perfectly.
- Test for Doneness: The toothpick test is reliable. If it comes out clean from the center, your bread is ready.
- Cool Completely: While tempting, allowing the bread to cool fully before slicing helps it set, preventing it from being too crumbly or falling apart.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This Cinnamon Donut Bread is a versatile sweet treat perfect for many occasions:
- Breakfast or Brunch: Serve slices with your morning coffee, tea, or a glass of milk. It’s a fantastic alternative to classic muffins or pastries.
- Snack Time: A delightful pick-me-up any time of day when you need a little something sweet.
- Dessert: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an indulgent dessert.
- Coffee Break: Perfect for a mid-morning or afternoon coffee break.
- Gifting: This loaf makes a wonderful homemade gift for friends, family, or neighbors.
- Complementary Sweet Treats: If you’re hosting a gathering, this bread pairs well with other comforting baked goods. Think alongside This Chocolate Chip Banana Bread is My Favorite Way to Use Up Overripe Bananas for another tender loaf, or with individual treats like These Easy Pumpkin Spice Muffins Are My Favorite Fall Treat to Bake on Repeat.
Storage and Leftover Tips
Store any leftover Cinnamon Donut Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. To maintain its moisture and freshness, you can also wrap it tightly in plastic wrap.
For longer storage, the baked and cooled loaf can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw at room temperature before serving. You can also slice it before freezing for easy single portions.
More Recipes You Will Love
If you enjoyed the warm spices and comforting nature of this bake, you’ll likely love these other delicious recipes from Chef Maniac:
- For another fantastic and indulgent treat, try These Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Brownie Bombs Are My Favorite Sweet Obsession.
- If you’re a fan of rich, decadent desserts, you’ll want to check out The Best Peanut Butter Brownies I’ve Ever Made (and I’ve Made a Lot).
- And for a delicious make-ahead treat perfect for the holidays, don’t miss These Pecan Pie Bars Are My Favorite Make-Ahead Holiday Dessert.
Final Thoughts
This Cinnamon Donut Bread is a true delight – it brings all the joy of a fresh donut into a convenient and comforting loaf. With its tender crumb and irresistible cinnamon-sugar topping, it’s guaranteed to become a new favorite in your home. Get ready to fill your kitchen with a heavenly aroma and savor every sweet, spiced bite!
Did you make this Cinnamon Donut Bread? What’s your favorite classic dessert you’d love to see turned into a loaf? Share your thoughts and ideas in the comments below! And for more amazing recipes that bring joy and flavor to your table, be sure to follow Chef Maniac and Jason Griffith.
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