Name: Irresistibly Soft Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 85 min
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour (Can substitute with a gluten-free blend if needed.); 1 tablespoon baking powder (Helps the bread rise and become fluffy.); 1 teaspoon salt (Enhances flavor by balancing sweetness.); 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (Adds warmth and defines the classic cinnamon flavor.); 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (Use coconut oil for a dairy-free option.); 1 cup granulated sugar (Brown sugar can add a deeper flavor.); 2 large eggs (Use flax eggs for a vegan alternative.); 1 cup milk (Swap with almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version.); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (Offers a lovely depth of flavor.); 1/2 cup granulated sugar (Creates a sweet crunchy topping.); 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (Brings an extra burst of cinnamon flavor.)

Sinking my teeth into a slice of warm, homemade bread is a simple joy that never fails to bring a smile to my face. Today, I’m sharing my go-to recipe for Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread, a delightful twist on classic flavors that’s perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack. Not only is this bread a crowd-pleaser thanks to its sweet, spiced aroma, but it also requires just 15 minutes of prep time—leaving you more moments to enjoy its heavenly taste. With a cozy cinnamon swirl and a sugary crust, every bite is a reminder that comfort can come from your own kitchen. Curious how to create this cinnamon-sugar delight that turns your home into a bakery? Let’s dive into the recipe together!

Why is this Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread special?

Irresistible aroma fills your kitchen as this bread bakes, inviting everyone to gather and indulge. Easy preparation means you won’t spend hours in the kitchen; just 15 minutes of prep lets you enjoy baking without the hassle. Versatile for breakfast or dessert, it pairs perfectly with coffee or tea. Decadent sweetness comes from that delightful cinnamon sugar topping that creates an irresistible crust. Soft, fluffy texture ensures every bite melts in your mouth, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at any gathering.

Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread Ingredients

• Get ready to bake this delightful treat!

For the Bread

3 cups all-purpose flour – Essential for structure; you can substitute with a gluten-free blend if needed.
1 tablespoon baking powder – Helps the bread rise and become fluffy.
1 teaspoon salt – Enhances flavor by balancing sweetness.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Adds warmth and defines the classic cinnamon flavor.
½ cup unsalted butter, softened – Provides rich flavor and moisture; use coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
1 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the bread nicely; brown sugar can add a deeper flavor.
2 large eggs – Bind everything together; use flax eggs for a vegan alternative.
1 cup milk – Ensures the bread stays moist; swap with almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Offers a lovely depth of flavor.

For the Topping

½ cup granulated sugar – Creating that sweet crunchy topping makes the bread even more irresistible.
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon – This mixture brings an extra burst of cinnamon flavor to every slice!

With these ingredients, you’re just a few steps away from enjoying your homemade Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to create the perfect environment for baking your Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or cooking spray, ensuring it’s well-coated to prevent sticking. This preparation is key to achieving a beautifully baked loaf.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon until fully combined. This will form the dry ingredient mixture that provides structure and flavor. Set it aside for the moment as you focus on the wet ingredients next.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In another bowl, cream together ½ cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar using an electric mixer. Beat them on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3–5 minutes. This fluffy base is essential for incorporating air, which helps your bread rise beautifully during baking.

Step 4: Add Eggs
Next, add 2 large eggs to the butter-sugar mixture, one at a time. Mix well after each addition to ensure they are fully incorporated. This step adds moisture and richness to your Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread, making it irresistibly soft and creamy.

Step 5: Combine Milk and Vanilla
Pour in 1 cup of milk and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract into the wet mixture, stirring gently until everything is well combined. This will enrich the batter, infusing it with a lovely flavor and ensuring the bread remains moist throughout the baking process.

Step 6: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, gently mixing with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this could result in dense bread. It’s important that the batter remains slightly lumpy for the best texture in your Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread.

Step 7: Pour Half the Batter
Transfer half of the batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing it out evenly with a spatula. This will form the first layer for your deliciously spiced bread and create a base that’ll hold the delightful cinnamon sugar mixture.

Step 8: Sprinkle Cinnamon Sugar
In a small bowl, mix together ½ cup of granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon. Sprinkle half of this mixture over the batter in the pan, allowing those sweet flavors to seep into the loaf as it bakes, enhancing the taste of your Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread.

Step 9: Add Remaining Batter and Sugar
Pour the remaining batter into the pan and spread it gently to cover the sugar layer. Top it off with the rest of the cinnamon-sugar mixture, ensuring an extra crunchy, flavorful top layer that will create that signature donut-like experience in the finished bread.

Step 10: Swirl for Effect
Using a butter knife, gently swirl it through the batter to create a marbled effect. This not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of your Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread but also mixes in the cinnamon sugar topping as it bakes, resulting in even more delicious flavor.

Step 11: Bake
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it towards the end; the bread should be golden brown and fragrant, signaling it's time to come out.

Step 12: Cool and Transfer
Once baked, allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Let it cool completely before slicing to ensure perfect, tender pieces of your homemade Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread await you!

Make Ahead Options

Preparing your delicious Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread ahead of time is a fantastic way to save precious moments during busy mornings or gatherings! You can mix the dry ingredients (3 cups of flour, 1 tablespoon baking powder, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1 teaspoon cinnamon) up to 3 days in advance and store them in an airtight container. Additionally, you can cream the butter and sugar and prepare the wet ingredients (eggs, milk, vanilla) up to 24 hours ahead; just refrigerate them until you're ready to bake. When you're set to enjoy this delightful treat, simply combine the wet and dry ingredients and follow the baking instructions. This way, you’ll have fresh, warm bread with minimal effort, ensuring that each slice is just as irresistible as if you had just made it!

How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread

Room Temperature: Store your Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain its moisture and freshness.

Fridge: If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate the bread in a sealed container for up to a week. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap slices of the Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months without sacrificing flavor.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for that fresh-baked vibe!

What to Serve with Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread?

Pairing your delicious Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread with complementary flavors will elevate your meal to new heights.

Coffee or Espresso: The rich, bold flavor of coffee highlights the sweetness of the bread, making it an irresistible breakfast duo.
Cream Cheese Frosting: Spread a layer of creamy frosting for a decadent dessert twist, creating a delightful balance with the cinnamon spice.
Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or blueberries add a refreshing contrast, brightening up every bite while delivering a burst of summer flavor.
Yogurt Parfait: Layer your donut bread with creamy yogurt and fruit for a delightful and nutritious breakfast experience that feels indulgent yet wholesome.
Maple Syrup Drizzle: A warm drizzle of maple syrup enhances the sweetness, turning your slice into a sweet treat reminiscent of decadent pancakes.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream provides an airy texture that pairs oh-so-well with the cinnamon sugar crust.
Hot Cocoa: Cozy up with a cup of rich hot cocoa; the sweet cocoa flavor complements the spices in the bread while keeping you warm.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of velvety vanilla ice cream served alongside warm slices creates a comforting dessert experience that’s absolutely divine.
Spiced Apple Compote: The warm, fragrant apples add luscious sweetness and a delightful texture contrast, making each bite feel like a cozy autumn day.

Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread Variations

Feel free to get creative with this delightful bread and give it your own twist!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delicious treat.
Dairy-Free: Replace butter with coconut oil and use almond milk to keep the texture and flavor while making it dairy-free.
Nutty: Add 1 cup of chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch. The nutty addition will offer a lovely contrast to the soft bread.
Spiced: Incorporate a pinch of nutmeg or ginger into the batter for a warm, aromatic kick. This can elevate the flavor profile and add an extra layer of warmth.
Apple Cinnamon: Fold in 1 cup of diced apples for a fruity touch. The apples will soften while baking, adding moisture and a burst of flavor to each slice.
Chocolate Lovers: Mix in ½ cup of chocolate chips for a decadent surprise in every bite. This gooey addition transforms the bread into an irresistible treat that will satisfy any sweet tooth.
Maple Glaze: Drizzle a simple maple glaze on top after cooling for an added layer of sweetness. Just mix powdered sugar with a splash of maple syrup and a touch of milk for a creamy finish.
Coconut Topping: Introduce toasted coconut flakes on top for a tropical twist. It adds an aromatic flavor and beautiful texture that enhances the overall experience.

Expert Tips for Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread

Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature for better emulsification, leading to a fluffier Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread.
Don’t Overmix: Mix the wet and dry ingredients gently until just combined. Overmixing can result in a dense loaf rather than the light, airy texture we all crave.
Perfect Cinnamon Swirl: When swirling the cinnamon sugar through the batter, make light, gentle motions to avoid overmixing while still achieving that beautiful marbled effect.
Check for Doneness Early: Start checking your bread around the 50-minute mark. Ovens can vary, and you want to avoid overbaking, which can dry it out.
Cooling Time is Crucial: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. This helps the loaf set and makes slicing easier without crumbling.

Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best ingredients for my Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread?
Absolutely! For the best results, use fresh, high-quality ingredients. Look for all-purpose flour that’s not past its expiration date and soft butter that’s at room temperature for optimal creaming. Choosing eggs with bright yolks ensures richness, while a fragrant vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor beautifully.

How should I store my Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread?
Great question! Store your Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you'd like to extend its freshness, refrigerate it up to a week. However, allow it to come to room temperature before enjoying, as this restores its delightful texture.

Can I freeze the Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread?
Yes, indeed! To freeze your delicious bread, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place them in a freezer bag. This technique locks in moisture and flavor. You can store them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw at room temperature or pop slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for that freshly baked taste.

What if my Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread comes out dense?
Very common! To avoid density, be sure not to overmix your batter after adding the dry ingredients—mix just until combined for a light, fluffy loaf. Additionally, ensure your baking powder is fresh, as expired leavening agents can affect rising. Finally, mixing room temperature ingredients together helps create a lighter texture.

Is this recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions (like gluten intolerance)?
Absolutely! You can swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make a Gluten-Free Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread. If someone has dairy allergies, use coconut oil in place of butter and almond milk instead of regular milk. Always check the labels of pre-made mixes to ensure they meet your dietary needs.