Cinnamon Donut Bread – Soft, Sweet & Irresistible
Introduction
Imagine the comforting aroma of cinnamon donuts baking in the oven—but instead of frying, you’re slicing into a golden loaf that’s tender, moist, and bursting with buttery cinnamon goodness. That’s exactly what this Cinnamon Donut Breaddelivers: the joy of a classic donut, baked into an easy, sliceable loaf that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or anytime sweet cravings strike.
Why I Love This Recipe
This recipe is everything I want in a quick sweet bread:
✔️ One bowl mixing (almost)
✔️ No yeast or frying
✔️ Soft, cake-like texture
✔️ A generous cinnamon sugar crust on top
It’s also freezer-friendly and perfect for gifting!
🛒 Ingredients
For the Bread:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Cinnamon Sugar Topping:
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
👨🍳 Directions
1️⃣ Preheat & Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or nonstick spray.
2️⃣ Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
- Flour
- Sugar
- Baking powder
- Baking soda
- Salt
- Ground cinnamon
3️⃣ Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine:
- Melted butter
- Eggs
- Buttermilk
- Vanilla extract
Whisk until smooth and well blended.
4️⃣ Combine Wet & Dry
Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture.
Stir just until combined—do not overmix.
5️⃣ Pour & Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
Smooth the top with a spatula.
Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6️⃣ Cool & Coat
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then carefully transfer to a wire rack.
While still warm, brush the top with melted butter.
7️⃣ Cinnamon Sugar Finish
In a small bowl, mix the sugar and cinnamon.
Sprinkle generously over the buttered loaf top.
Let cool completely before slicing (if you can wait!).
⏱️ Time & Yield
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Bake Time: 45–50 minutes
- Cool Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: ~55 minutes
- Servings: 10–12 slices
- Calories: ~270 per slice
💡 Tips & Variations
- Make it a swirl: Layer some of the cinnamon sugar in the middle of the batter before baking.
- Buttermilk substitute: Use 1 cup milk + 1 tbsp lemon juice or vinegar.
- Add-ins: Fold in chopped apples or mini chocolate chips for a fun twist.
- Double the topping for extra crunch and sweetness!
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
- Serve with coffee, tea, or warm milk
- Add a spread of softened cream cheese or cinnamon butter
- Pair with Chocolate Chip Banana Bread or Pumpkin Spice Muffins for a breakfast bread board
- Enjoy as dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream!
🧾 Final Thoughts
Cinnamon Donut Bread is one of those magical recipes that feels special enough for guests, yet simple enough for any day of the week. With its cozy spice, tender crumb, and cinnamon sugar top, it brings all the best parts of a donut to your table—minus the fryer.
💬 Let’s See Your Loaf!
Tried it? Tag @ChefManiac with your loaf pics and show off that cinnamon sparkle! Want to make a mini version or a muffin batch? Just ask—I’ve got the variation guide ready for you.
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