The Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread Recipe is a delightful treat that combines the nostalgic flavors of cinnamon doughnuts with the cozy comfort of homemade bread. This easy-to-make loaf is perfectly spiced and sweetened, boasting a soft and tender crumb dusted generously with cinnamon sugar. Whether it’s for a weekend breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a fun dessert, this recipe brings warm, cinnamon-kissed joy to your kitchen, making every slice feel like a little celebration.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, everyday ingredients is the best part about this Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread Recipe. Each component plays a crucial role, from lending fluffiness and richness to delivering that signature sweet-spiced flavor and golden color.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for the bread’s soft, tender texture.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness without overpowering.
- 2 tsp baking powder: Helps the bread rise to a light and airy consistency.
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon: Provides that warm, comforting spice that’s the heart of the flavor.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all other flavors.
- 2 large eggs (room temperature): Binds everything together while ensuring a moist crumb.
- 1 cup whole milk (or almond/oat milk): Keeps the bread tender and adds a slight richness.
- 1/2 cup melted butter (cooled): For richness and that melt-in-your-mouth crumb.
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar: Adds deeper caramel undertones and is essential for the cinnamon sugar swirl.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Brings a mellow, fragrant sweetness that rounds out the flavors.
How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan thoroughly so your bread bakes evenly and can be removed effortlessly later. This little prep ensures a perfect golden crust and prevents sticking.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. This blend creates the flavorful base, dispersing the warm cinnamon evenly throughout the dough for that signature donut bread taste.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix the melted butter, eggs, milk, and vanilla extract until everything is smooth and well incorporated. This combination provides richness and moisture, making the bread irresistibly soft.
Step 4: Gently Combine Wet and Dry
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir them together gently. It’s important not to overmix here to keep the bread tender and prevent toughness. You want a few small lumps for a perfect crumb.
Step 5: Add the Cinnamon Sugar Swirl
Mix the brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. Sprinkle half of this mixture into the batter and stir lightly just to swirl it through. The other half gets sprinkled on top right before baking, creating that enchanting cinnamon-sugar crust and swirl that is oh-so-delicious.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Pour your batter into the greased pan and bake it for 50 to 60 minutes. The bread should turn a lovely golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center will come out clean. This step develops the flavors and gives you that classic donut bread crisp outside.
Step 7: Cool and Enjoy
Once baked, allow the bread to cool in the pan for a bit before transferring to a wire rack. A slight cool-down makes slicing easier and helps the flavors to marry beautifully.
How to Serve Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a little extra cinnamon sugar on top after baking for an irresistibly sweet, crunchy finish. For a festive touch, drizzle with a simple vanilla glaze or dust lightly with powdered sugar to add visual appeal and extra sweetness.
Side Dishes
This Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread pairs beautifully with a steaming cup of coffee or a chai latte. For a more substantial brunch, serve it alongside fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream to complement its cozy sweetness without overpowering it.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to elevate this treat? Serve thick slices topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a smear of cream cheese frosting for an indulgent dessert. Alternatively, cut into cubes and skewer for bite-sized donut bread pops, perfect for sharing at gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap the leftover Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps it moist while preserving the fresh-baked flavor and texture.
Freezing
For longer storage, slice the bread and place the pieces in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Freezing helps maintain the quality so you can enjoy this tasty bread anytime.
Reheating
To reheat, simply warm slices in a toaster oven or microwave for about 15-20 seconds until soft and fragrant. Adding a bit of butter while reheating can enhance that just-baked richness and recreate the wonderful cinnamon sugar aroma.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of flour for this Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread Recipe?
Yes! While all-purpose flour is recommended for the best texture, you can substitute with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor, though it may make the bread a bit denser. Just remember to use the same amount.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely. Swap the whole milk for any plant-based milk like almond or oat milk, and use a dairy-free butter alternative. The bread will still be moist and flavorful without losing the classic donut bread charm.
How can I ensure the cinnamon sugar swirl is well distributed?
Mixing half of the cinnamon sugar mixture gently into the batter and sprinkling the rest on top before baking creates the best swirl and crust balance. Be careful not to fully blend the cinnamon sugar into the batter to keep it distinct.
Can this bread be made gluten-free?
With the right gluten-free flour blend designed for baking, yes! Ensure your baking powder is gluten-free too. The texture might vary slightly but the flavor will still shine through wonderfully.
How long does the Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread stay fresh?
When stored properly at room temperature, this bread stays fresh for 1 to 2 days. For best taste and texture, enjoy it within that timeframe or freeze any leftovers as soon as possible.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, once you try this Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread Recipe, it’ll quickly become a beloved staple in your kitchen. It’s simple, comforting, and packed with the kind of warmth only cinnamon can bring. Perfect for sharing (or not!), this bread is sure to brighten your mornings and sweeten your days. So grab your ingredients, preheat that oven, and treat yourself to a slice of coziness today!
