Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread Recipe

If you have a soft spot for sweet, tender treats that feel like a hug in every bite, then you are going to fall head over heels for this Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread. Imagine tender bread swirled with fragrant cinnamon sugar layers that melt into every nook and cranny, delivering a perfect balance of spice, sweetness, and buttery richness. This delightful recipe transforms simple pantry staples into a cozy, irresistible loaf that will become your go-to comfort snack or breakfast treat. Trust me, once you try Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread, your taste buds will thank you, and it might just earn a special place in your heart and kitchen forever.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, everyday ingredients is half the joy in making Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread. Each component plays a crucial role—flour provides structure, cinnamon adds that warm spice, and butter lends moisture and richness to create a melt-in-your-mouth texture. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need for this scrumptious loaf.

• 3 cups all-purpose flour: The base of our bread, lending just the right chewiness and crumb.
• 1 tablespoon baking powder: Your secret to a beautiful rise and fluffy texture.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors, making every bite pop.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Infuses the bread with warm, comforting spice.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens and balances the cinnamon’s warmth perfectly.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and helps the bread stay tender.
• 2 large eggs: Bind everything together while contributing to a lovely crumb.
• 1 cup milk: Adds moisture and keeps the bread soft from the inside out.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavor with its sweet, aromatic notes.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar for topping: The perfect sugary crunch atop the loaf.
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon for topping: Creates that irresistible cinnamon sugar coating on the outside.

How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with either butter or non-stick spray. This simple step ensures that your beautiful bread will come out easily without any sticking, setting you up for baking success right from the start.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. This fragrant mixture will give your bread its signature cinnamon flavor and the right lift to keep it light and airy.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step is essential for a tender texture and a slightly caramelized sweetness that’s just irresistible.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Liquid Ingredients

Blend in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, stir in the milk and vanilla extract until everything is nice and combined. These ingredients bring moisture and depth of flavor to your Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Avoid overmixing here—this will keep the bread tender instead of tough and dense. Remember, a light hand is your friend!

Step 6: Layer the Batter and Cinnamon Sugar

Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan. In a small bowl, mix together 1/2 cup sugar and 1 tablespoon cinnamon to make the topping. Sprinkle half of this cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the batter.

Step 7: Add Remaining Batter and Topping

Pour the second half of the batter on top, then sprinkle the remaining cinnamon sugar mixture over it. Using a knife, gently swirl the batter and cinnamon sugar topping to create a beautiful marbled effect that will look as fantastic as it tastes.

Step 8: Bake Until Golden and Delicious

Bake your Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma will fill your kitchen with the most comforting scent imaginable—almost impossible to resist!

Step 9: Cool and Enjoy

Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This resting time helps the loaf set and makes slicing easier without crumbling. Then, dive in and savor the magic of this warm, cinnamon-sugared masterpiece!

How to Serve Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread

Garnishes

This Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread is lovely on its own, but adding a few extras can elevate your experience. Try a dusting of powdered sugar or a light drizzle of honey or maple syrup. For an indulgent touch, whip up a dollop of cinnamon-spiced whipped cream or cream cheese frosting to enhance the sweet, spicy notes beautifully.

Side Dishes

Pair your loaf with a steaming cup of coffee or a rich latte for a cozy breakfast or afternoon treat. It also complements fresh fruit like berries or sliced apples perfectly, balancing sweetness with natural freshness. For brunch, serve alongside scrambled eggs or a light yogurt parfait for a satisfying meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, slice the Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread into thick slabs and toast them lightly before serving to bring out extra warmth and crunch. You can also cut it into cubes and serve it as a cinnamon sugar bread pudding base or skewer cubes for a funky sweet appetizer. Presentation is half the fun, so don’t be shy with your creativity!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps the bread moist and flavorful without drying out, making it perfect for quick snacks or a grab-and-go breakfast.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy this treat later, Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread freezes beautifully. Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or place slices in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen bread stays fresh for up to 3 months, so you can indulge whenever the craving strikes.

Reheating

To bring back the fresh-baked warmth, reheat slices in a toaster or oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes until heated through and slightly crisp on the edges. You can also warm it gently in the microwave for 15-20 seconds if you’re in a hurry. A touch of butter or cream cheese spread on warm slices is heavenly!

FAQs

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Absolutely! Substituting whole wheat flour will add a nutty flavor and make the bread a bit denser. You might want to use slightly less flour or add a bit more milk to keep it moist.

Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Swap the milk for almond or oat milk, and replace the butter with a plant-based margarine or coconut oil. The bread will still be delicious and soft with these substitutions.

Can I add nuts or raisins to the bread?

Definitely! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or raisins mixed into the batter add lovely texture and bursts of flavor. Just fold them in gently before pouring the batter into the pan.

What if I don’t have cinnamon on hand?

If you’re out of cinnamon, you can substitute with ground nutmeg or pumpkin pie spice for a warm, sweet spice blend. It won’t be exactly the same, but still delicious!

How long will the Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread stay fresh?

Stored properly at room temperature, this bread stays fresh for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freezing is a great option and preserves the flavor well.

Final Thoughts

I hope you can feel my excitement about this Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread because it truly is one of those recipes that brings warmth and comfort with every bite. Simple ingredients come together to create a treat that’s perfect any time of day. So go ahead—bake it, share it, and savor the sweet, tender magic that only Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread can deliver. Your kitchen will thank you, and so will your heart.

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