Cinnamon Donut Bread 🥯❤️ – Sweet, Spiced & Perfect for Family Mornings
If you’ve ever loved the scent of fresh donuts in the morning but hate the mess of frying, this Cinnamon Donut Bread is your new go-to!
This moist, cakey loaf is packed with warming spices like cinnamon and nutmeg , lightly sweetened, and finished with a buttery cinnamon-sugar topping that gives it that classic donut crunch. It’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet snack — every slice feels like a cozy memory wrapped in a loaf pan.
Let’s dive into how to make this nostalgic treat!
🧁 Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Donut Bread
- Tastes like cinnamon donuts in bread form : All the flavor, none of the oil.
- Soft inside, crunchy top : Just like your favorite bakery-style donuts.
- No yeast needed : Quick bread means no rising time — just mix and bake!
- Perfect for sharing : Ideal for family breakfasts or potlucks.
- Great for meal prep : Keeps well for days and travels beautifully.
🧾 Ingredients (Makes 1 Loaf)
For the batter:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp salt
- 2 large eggs
- ¾ cup buttermilk or milk
- ¼ cup vegetable oil or melted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the cinnamon-sugar topping:
- ¼ cup sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 2 tbsp melted butter
🔪 Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or spatula
- Measuring tools
- Loaf pan (8×4-inch or 9×5-inch)
- Parchment paper or non-stick spray
- Oven
- Cooling rack
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) . Grease a loaf pan with non-stick spray or butter and dust with flour to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl:
- Combine:
- Flour
- Sugar
- Baking powder
- Baking soda
- Cinnamon
- Salt
Mix until evenly combined — this ensures even rise and flavor.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
To the dry ingredients:
- Add eggs , buttermilk , melted oil , and vanilla extract .
- Stir gently with a spatula or wooden spoon until just mixed — lumps are okay!
Tip: Don’t overmix — it keeps the crumb tender and moist.
Step 4: Pour Into Pan
Pour the thick batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 50–60 minutes , or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few crumbs.
Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes , then transfer to a wire rack.
Step 6: Brush With Butter & Sprinkle With Cinnamon Sugar
While still warm:
- In a small bowl, mix ¼ cup sugar and 1 tsp cinnamon .
- Brush the top of the loaf generously with melted butter .
- Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar evenly over the warm bread.
This creates that signature donut-style crisp topping we all love.
Step 7: Cool & Slice
Let the bread cool completely before slicing into thick pieces.
The longer it sits, the more the flavors develop — and it slices best when fully cooled.
Enjoy warm or at room temperature — either way, it’s pure comfort.
🍯 Serving Suggestions
- With a smear of cream cheese or peanut butter on top.
- Drizzled with honey or maple syrup for extra sweetness.
- Alongside a mug of coffee, tea, or hot chocolate .
- Try it toasted with a bit of butter and jam .
- Stack with whipped cream and berries for a mini trifle effect .
🥡 Storage & Reheating Tips
- Refrigerator: Store wrapped in plastic wrap or foil in the fridge for up to 4 days .
- Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months . Thaw and reheat when ready.
- Make Ahead: The bread tastes even better the next day — great for preparing ahead of guests.
- Reheating: Warm slices in the toaster oven or microwave (with a damp paper towel) for best results.
✅ Expert Tips for Success
- Use room temperature eggs and milk for smoother mixing.
- Want extra crunch? Dip the top in a sugar-cinnamon glaze while warm.
- Swap some flour with oats for a rustic texture and added fiber.
- Make it gluten-free : Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and xanthan gum.
- Try a maple or honey version instead of granulated sugar for natural sweetness.
🧠 Nutritional Highlights
While definitely a treat, this bread offers some wholesome perks:
- Cinnamon supports digestion and blood sugar balance .
- Eggs and milk deliver protein and calcium.
- Buttermilk keeps the crumb tender and moist .
- Enjoy one slice with coffee or tea — especially on special mornings!
📝 Final Thoughts
This Cinnamon Donut Bread proves that you don’t need a fryer or rolling pin to enjoy the flavors of your favorite morning treat. With its soft crumb, buttery topping, and bold spice notes, it brings the joy of donuts straight to your kitchen — without the fuss.
Whether you’re making it for lazy weekends, holiday brunches, or simply because you deserve something sweet, this recipe delivers big on flavor and nostalgia.
So grab your loaf pan, sprinkle on that cinnamon sugar, and get ready to fall in love with every warm, comforting bite!
