Bring the comforting aroma of fresh cinnamon donuts to your kitchen with this Cinnamon Donut Bread! Soft, moist, and topped with a sweet cinnamon-sugar layer, it’s the perfect treat for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Each slice is a nostalgic bite of cozy mornings and warm memories.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples you likely already have on hand.
Versatile: Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or as a sweet snack.
Crowd-Pleaser: Its irresistible cinnamon flavor makes it a hit at family gatherings.
Quick Prep: Minimal effort for maximum flavor!
Ingredients
For the Bread:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
1 cup buttermilk
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Topping:
¼ cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
How to Make Cinnamon Donut Bread
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a standard loaf pan with butter or nonstick spray, ensuring even coverage.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. This creates the base for your bread.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, buttermilk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth and fully incorporated.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Gently stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix. The batter should be slightly lumpy.
Step 5: Pour into the Pan
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, using a spatula to smooth the top for an even bake.
Step 6: Add the Cinnamon-Sugar Topping
In a small bowl, mix the sugar and cinnamon for the topping. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the batter.
Step 7: Bake the Bread
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50–60 minutes. To check doneness, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few crumbs.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy warm with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey.
Pair with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful breakfast or afternoon treat.
Add a dollop of whipped cream or cream cheese frosting for an indulgent dessert.
Tips for Recipe Success
Perfect Texture
Don’t overmix the batter! Overmixing can lead to dense bread instead of the desired light and fluffy texture.
Buttermilk Substitute
No buttermilk? Mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar and let it sit for 5 minutes to create a quick alternative.
Enhanced Flavor
Add a pinch of nutmeg to the batter for a warm, spiced depth.
Swirl a teaspoon of cinnamon-sugar into the batter before adding the topping for extra cinnamon goodness.
Storing the Bread
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week. Warm slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds before serving.
FAQs
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, but the texture may be denser. To keep it light, consider using half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour.
Can I freeze Cinnamon Donut Bread?
Absolutely! Wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Can I make this into muffins?
Yes, simply divide the batter into a muffin tin lined with paper liners. Reduce the baking time to 18–22 minutes.
How can I make this bread vegan?
Use flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) and plant-based milk with a splash of vinegar as buttermilk substitutes. Swap butter with coconut oil or vegan butter.
Timing and Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 50–60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: 10–12 slices
Why This Recipe Works
The combination of cinnamon and sugar on top of the soft, moist bread gives this recipe a classic donut flavor while being incredibly easy to make. The buttermilk ensures a tender crumb, and the cinnamon-sugar topping adds a delightful crunch. This recipe turns everyday ingredients into a bakery-worthy treat!
Enjoy a slice of this delightful Cinnamon Donut Bread—it’s sure to become a family favorite!