Cinnamon Donut Bread Recipe

Imagine the best parts of a classic cinnamon donut transformed into a cozy, deeply aromatic loaf—yes, I’m talking about Cinnamon Donut Bread! This dreamy treat is a cross between a tender sweet bread and an old-fashioned donut, featuring a pillowy interior generously spiced with cinnamon and a buttery, sweet topping that gives you that unmistakable donut finish. It’s the kind of loaf that makes the whole house smell like a warm bakery and invites everyone to sneak just one more slice. Whether you enjoy it with a morning coffee or as an afternoon pick-me-up, this recipe is about to become your new baking obsession.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t need anything fancy for this Cinnamon Donut Bread—just a handful of pantry staples where each ingredient plays its own delicious part. Lean on the basics: flour for structure, buttermilk for an ultra-tender crumb, and, of course, cinnamon for that oh-so-inviting aroma and flavor!

• All-purpose flour: Provides the essential structure that gives the bread a tender but sturdy crumb.
• Baking powder: Helps the loaf rise tall and fluffy—don’t skip it!
• Baking soda: Works with the buttermilk for extra lift and a tender bite.
• Ground cinnamon: The star spice—use fresh, fragrant cinnamon for the fullest flavor.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances every other flavor.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens both the loaf and the irresistible topping, making every bite feel special.
• Unsalted butter: Melted for both the batter and the topping, adding richness and that unmistakable donut vibe.
• Eggs: Bind the mixture and add a touch of richness so the bread stays moist.
• Vanilla extract: Infuses the loaf with warmth and a lovely classic bakery note.
• Buttermilk: Makes the crumb extra moist and tender while adding a subtle tang.
• For the cinnamon-sugar topping: Butter, sugar, and cinnamon combine for that classic donut finish everyone craves.

How to Make Cinnamon Donut Bread

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Gather Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab your trusty 9×5-inch loaf pan and give it a good greasing—either with butter or nonstick spray. Measure out all your ingredients before you dive in. Taking a moment to prep makes the whole Cinnamon Donut Bread process smooth and stress-free.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt. This not only blends everything evenly, but it also aerates the flour mix so your Cinnamon Donut Bread bakes up nice and light in texture.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk the granulated sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract together until the mixture looks smooth, glossy, and thoroughly combined. Pour in the buttermilk and stir gently—the buttermilk truly makes the loaf tender and moist.

Step 4: Bring Together the Batter

Now it’s time to unite your wet and dry ingredients! Add the dry mixture to the wet in several additions, stirring just until everything is incorporated. Be careful not to overmix—stir until you don’t see dry streaks anymore and then stop. This prevents a dense loaf and keeps that Cinnamon Donut Bread soft and fluffy.

Step 5: Bake the Bread

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Slide it into the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when your kitchen smells amazing and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean (a few moist crumbs are okay).

Step 6: Make the Cinnamon-Sugar Topping

While your bread bakes, melt the butter in one small bowl and, in another, stir together granulated sugar and cinnamon until beautifully blended. This topping is what gives Cinnamon Donut Bread its iconic taste and texture!

Step 7: Coat the Bread

After baking, let your loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Carefully remove it and place it on a wire rack. While the bread is still warm, brush the entire surface with melted butter and generously sprinkle on the cinnamon-sugar mix, pressing gently to help it stick and coat evenly.

Step 8: Cool, Slice, and Enjoy

Let your Cinnamon Donut Bread cool completely before slicing—this helps the crumb set so each piece is gorgeous and tender. Now comes the best part: brew a fresh cup of coffee or tea, slice thick pieces, and relish every cinnamon-spiced bite!

How to Serve Cinnamon Donut Bread

Garnishes

A warm thick slab of Cinnamon Donut Bread is swoon-worthy on its own, but if you want to take things over the top, add a dusting of powdered sugar or a light drizzle of vanilla glaze for extra sweetness. For a beautiful touch, sprinkle a hint of extra ground cinnamon just before serving.

Side Dishes

This loaf pairs beautifully with a steaming mug of coffee, hot chocolate, or chai tea. For a brunch spread, serve it alongside fresh fruit, creamy Greek yogurt, or scrambled eggs—it holds its own on any breakfast table and makes elevating your morning routine a breeze.

Creative Ways to Present

Cinnamon Donut Bread is a showstopper at gatherings! Cube it up and serve on a platter for a brunch buffet, or make mini loaves for gifting to neighbors and friends. You can also lightly toast slices and slather with butter for an elevated snack that tastes just like those warm bakery donuts we all love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Cinnamon Donut Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. The topping stays crisp and the inside remains moist, so you’ll keep enjoying those wonderful bakery vibes even days after baking.

Freezing

Cinnamon Donut Bread holds up perfectly in the freezer. Slice the cooled loaf and wrap individual slices (or the whole loaf) tightly in plastic wrap, then foil. Pop it in a freezer bag and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or for a few hours at room temp when you’re ready to indulge again.

Reheating

Rewarm slices in the microwave for about 10–15 seconds, or toast them lightly in the oven for a crispier edge. The warmth revives the aroma and brings back the “fresh-out-of-the-oven” flavor, making it taste just-baked all over again.

FAQs

Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?

While buttermilk gives the bread its signature tenderness, you can easily make a DIY substitute! Mix 3/4 cup of milk with 2 teaspoons of lemon juice or vinegar, stir, and let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

How do I know when my Cinnamon Donut Bread is done baking?

A toothpick or cake tester inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a crumb or two. Also, the loaf should spring back lightly when gently pressed in the middle.

Can I add mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Chopped toasted pecans, walnuts, or even mini chocolate chips would taste marvelous—just fold about half a cup into the batter before baking for a fun twist.

What if I don’t have a 9×5 loaf pan?

No worries—an 8×4-inch pan works too, just keep an eye on the bake time (it may take a few minutes longer). You can also divide the batter between mini loaf pans and reduce the bake time accordingly.

Is this recipe good for making ahead?

Cinnamon Donut Bread is perfect for prepping in advance! The flavors develop even more after a day, making it ideal for making before a brunch or holiday breakfast.

Final Thoughts

Every home baker needs a go-to treat for cozy mornings or afternoon pick-me-ups, and Cinnamon Donut Bread delivers every time—moist, aromatic, and utterly addictive! Get ready to fill your kitchen with cinnamon-spiced happiness and make this beloved loaf a staple in your baking repertoire.

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