Cinnamon Donut Bread Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe Cinnamon Donut Bread brings together the comforting flavors of a classic donut with the ease of a quick bread. Here’s why you’ll adore this recipe:

Donut Flavor Without Frying: Enjoy the rich, cinnamon-sugar taste of donuts without the hassle of deep frying.
Soft, Moist Texture: The bread’s tender crumb melts in your mouth.
Customizable: Add nuts, chocolate chips, or spices to suit your taste.
Kid-Friendly: Perfect for little hands to help mix and decorate.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Bake it in advance for stress-free entertaining.

Ingredients This simple yet indulgent ingredient list creates magic:

For the Bread:

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
¾ cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ cup buttermilk (or ½ cup milk + ½ tablespoon vinegar)
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:

¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
½ cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

Optional Glaze:

1 cup powdered sugar
2–3 tablespoons milk
½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions Follow these easy steps to make this irresistible bread:

Preheat Oven: Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the buttermilk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Make the Batter: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Add Cinnamon Sugar Coating: While the bread is still warm, brush the surface with melted butter. Mix the sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl and sprinkle generously over the bread, pressing gently to adhere.
(Optional) Glaze: Combine powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth, then drizzle over the cooled bread.
Serve: Slice and enjoy warm or at room temperature.

Why This Recipe Works The perfect balance of textures and flavors makes this bread irresistible. The crispy cinnamon-sugar coating pairs beautifully with the soft, moist interior, creating an indulgent treat in every bite.

Variations Make this bread your own with these fun twists:

Add Crunch: Stir in chopped pecans or walnuts.
Chocolate Lovers: Fold mini chocolate chips into the batter or drizzle melted chocolate on top.
Gluten-Free: Use a high-quality gluten-free flour blend.
Vegan Option: Substitute plant-based butter, egg replacer, and dairy-free milk.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for extra warmth.

Tips for Success

Avoid Overmixing: Keeps the bread light and tender.
Use Fresh Ingredients: High-quality vanilla and fresh cinnamon elevate the flavor.
Storage: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Freezing: Wrap well and freeze for up to 3 months; thaw at room temperature.
Shape Options: Try mini loaf pans or a bundt pan for a different presentation.

Serving Suggestions This versatile bread is perfect for any occasion: