Cinnamon Donut Bread Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe Cinnamon Donut Bread combines comforting flavors with easy preparation. Here’s why it’s a must-try:

  • Donut Flavor Without Frying: Enjoy classic donut taste without the mess of deep frying.

  • Soft and Moist Texture: This bread has a tender crumb that melts in your mouth.

  • Easily Customizable: Add nuts, chocolate chips, or extra spices to suit your preference.

  • Kid-Friendly Fun: Little ones will love helping decorate this sweet treat.

  • Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare in advance and store for stress-free entertaining.

Ingredients 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 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

For the Optional Glaze:

  • 1 cup powdered sugar

  • 2–3 tablespoons milk

  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan or line with parchment paper.

  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.

  3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk buttermilk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.

  4. Mix Batter: Gradually fold dry ingredients into wet mixture until just combined. The batter should be slightly lumpy—avoid overmixing.

  5. Bake: Pour batter into loaf pan, smoothing the top. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

  6. Add Cinnamon Sugar: While bread is warm, brush surface with melted butter. Mix sugar and cinnamon in a bowl, then sprinkle generously over the buttered bread, patting gently to help it stick.

  7. (Optional) Glaze: Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Adjust milk for desired consistency and drizzle over cooled bread.

  8. Serve: Slice and enjoy warm or at room temperature.

Why This Recipe Works The crispy cinnamon-sugar coating combined with the soft, moist bread creates a perfect balance of texture and flavor. Every bite offers a donut-like experience without frying.

Variations

  • Add Crunch: Mix chopped pecans or walnuts into the batter.

  • Chocolate Twist: Fold in mini chocolate chips or drizzle chocolate over the glaze.

  • Gluten-Free: Substitute with gluten-free all-purpose flour.

  • Vegan Option: Use plant-based butter, egg replacer, and dairy-free milk.

  • Spice It Up: Add 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 enhance flavor.

  • Store Smart: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer storage.

  • Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature.

  • Try Different Shapes: Use a bundt pan or mini loaf pans for a unique presentation.

Serving Ideas

  • Breakfast: Pair with coffee, tea, or hot cocoa.

  • Brunch: Serve alongside quiches, frittatas, and fresh fruit.

  • Holiday Spread: A festive addition to Thanksgiving or Christmas tables.

  • Gift Idea: Package slices in decorative tins for a thoughtful homemade present.

  • Dessert: Top with whipped cream or ice cream for an indulgent treat.

Final Thoughts With its soft texture, sweet cinnamon coating, and optional glaze, Cinnamon Donut Bread is a crowd-pleaser you’ll want to make again and again. Whether for a cozy breakfast, a festive celebration, or a simple sweet craving, this recipe delivers big on flavor and charm.

Have you tried this recipe? Share your thoughts and variations below. Happy baking! 🍩🍞✨