Cinnamon Donut Bread

This Cinnamon Donut Bread is the ultimate comforting treat, combining the warm, sweet flavor of cinnamon with a soft, buttery loaf that’s perfect for cozy mornings or anytime you need a sweet bite. With its easy-to-make batter and cinnamon-sugar topping, it’s a comforting dessert or snack that will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cinnamon Donut Bread combines all the flavors of a cinnamon sugar donut in bread form. The bread itself is soft and moist, while the topping adds a delightful crunch and sweetness. It’s the perfect balance of warmth and sweetness, and the cinnamon-sugar coating gives it that irresistible “donut” vibe. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make—just mix, bake, and enjoy!

Ingredients

For the Bread:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder

• ½ teaspoon baking soda

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ¾ cup granulated sugar

• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

• 2 large eggs

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• ¾ cup buttermilk

For the Topping:

• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted (for brushing)

• ½ cup granulated sugar (for topping)

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for topping)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.

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

3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the sugar, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and buttermilk.

4. Mix Together: Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to keep the bread light and tender.

5. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

6. Add Topping: Once the bread is baked, brush the top with melted butter and sprinkle evenly with the cinnamon-sugar topping.

7. Cool and Serve: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve warm for the best flavor.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 50-60 minutes

• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

• Servings: 8 servings

Variations

• Add-ins: Add chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or raisins to the batter for extra flavor and texture.

• Glazed Version: For a more decadent treat, top the bread with a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk after brushing with butter and cinnamon sugar.

• Vegan Version: Substitute the butter with a plant-based butter alternative and use flax eggs or chia eggs in place of the regular eggs.

• Spiced Version: Add nutmeg, ginger, or allspice to the batter for a more complex flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

• Freezing: Wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

• Reheating: Reheat individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a warm treat.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?

Yes, you can substitute regular milk, but the buttermilk adds a tangy flavor and helps make the bread more moist. If using regular milk, consider adding a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to mimic the acidity of buttermilk.

2. Can I make this bread in a different pan size?

Yes, if you don’t have a loaf pan, you can bake it in a square or round cake pan, but keep an eye on the baking time. It may bake faster or slower depending on the size and shape of the pan.

3. How do I know when the bread is done?

The bread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. If the top is getting too brown but the center is still not done, cover it loosely with aluminum foil and continue baking until done.

4. Can I make this bread ahead of time?

Yes, this bread is perfect for making ahead. It stays fresh for a few days and even gets better the longer it sits, allowing the flavors to meld together.

5. How can I make the topping more crunchy?

For an extra crunchy topping, you can add a tablespoon of coarse sugar (like turbinado) to the cinnamon-sugar mixture before sprinkling it on top.

6. Can I make this bread gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that is a 1:1 substitute for regular flour. Be sure to also use a gluten-free baking powder and baking soda.

7. Can I add fruit to the bread?

Yes, you can fold in fresh or dried fruit like blueberries, apples, or cranberries for extra sweetness and texture.

8. Can I freeze slices of the bread?

Yes, you can freeze individual slices. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store them in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw in the fridge or microwave when ready to enjoy.

9. Can I use coconut oil instead of butter?

Yes, you can substitute melted coconut oil for butter, though it will add a slight coconut flavor to the bread.

10. How can I make the bread sweeter?

If you like a sweeter bread, increase the sugar by ¼ cup or add a drizzle of icing on top for a sweeter treat.

Conclusion

This Cinnamon Donut Bread is a warm, comforting, and flavorful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. The buttery oat loaf, with its sweet cinnamon topping, makes it an irresistible snack, breakfast, or dessert. Whether you’re enjoying it fresh out of the oven or saving it for later, this cinnamon bread is sure to be a crowd-pleaser every time!