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Every time I pull this cinnamon donut bread from the oven, memories of weekend mornings with my grandmother flood back. The warm, sweet aroma of cinnamon fills the kitchen. It makes an ordinary day magical.
This homemade baked treat is more than a recipe. It’s a connection to cherished moments and family traditions. Creating this cinnamon donut bread is more than just baking. It’s about crafting an experience that brings comfort and joy.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe promises to deliver a delightful twist on classic quick bread. It will have everyone asking for seconds.
I’ll guide you through crafting a mouthwatering loaf. It combines the tender crumb of a classic bread with the irresistible sweetness of a sugar donut. Get ready to elevate your baking skills and create a homemade baked treat that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Key Takeaways
- Perfect blend of quick bread and donut flavors
- Simple ingredients, impressive results
- Ideal for breakfast or afternoon snack
- Freezer-friendly for make-ahead convenience
- Customizable with various flavor variations
Introduction to Cinnamon Donut Bread
Welcome to the world of donut-inspired bread! I’m excited to share a sweet bread recipe. It turns the classic donut into a delicious loaf you can make at home. This Cinnamon Donut Bread is perfect for anyone who loves bakery-fresh treats.
What Makes This Recipe Special
My cinnamon donut-inspired bread is special for many reasons:
- Captures the essence of a classic cinnamon sugar donut
- No complicated yeast or rising time required
- Perfect for breakfast, snack, or dessert
- Simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry
Why You’ll Love This Bread
Imagine biting into a slice of bread that tastes like a cinnamon sugar donut. That’s exactly what this recipe delivers! It’s moist, full of warm cinnamon flavor, and has a sweet sugar coating. Each bite is pure bliss.
“A slice of heaven in every bite” – Home Baker’s Secret
Brief History of Donut-Inspired Breads
Donut-inspired breads started when creative bakers wanted to make donuts easier to bake at home. They turned the deep-fried classic into a simple quick bread. This made it easy for home cooks to enjoy donut flavors without the hard work of traditional donut-making.
This sweet bread recipe has only 250 calories per serving. It takes about 1 hour to prepare. Get ready to love a new favorite for breakfast and snacks!
Essential Ingredients and Equipment

To make the best breakfast bread, you need the right ingredients and tools. My cinnamon donut bread recipe uses common items and special baking tools. This mix makes every loaf a treat.
Key Ingredients for Baked Goods
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- ⅔ cup half and half
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Essential Baking Equipment
- 9×5 inch loaf pan
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Parchment paper
- Cooling rack
Quality ingredients are key for this breakfast bread. Use fresh, room-temperature items for the best taste and texture.
Ingredient Category | Quantity | Purpose |
---|---|---|
Dry Ingredients | 2 cups flour | Provides structure |
Sweeteners | 1 cup sugar | Adds sweetness |
Spices | 1 tbsp cinnamon | Enhances flavor |
Liquids | ⅔ cup half and half | Provides moisture |
Having these ingredients and tools ready will help you make a tasty cinnamon donut bread. It’s great for any morning breakfast.
Perfect Measurements and Proportions
Creating the perfect cinnamon sugar topping and sweet bread recipe needs care. I’ll show you the exact measurements for delicious results every time.
To make bakery-quality bread, know the balance between dry and wet ingredients. Let’s look at the key parts that make your bread irresistible.
Dry Ingredients Breakdown
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1½ cups granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
Wet Ingredients Essentials
- 1¼ cups whole milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Spiced Sugar Coating Components
The secret to a great cinnamon sugar topping is the right mix. Here’s what I suggest:
- ¼ cup unsalted butter (melted)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
Pro tip: Measure ingredients precisely for the best sweet bread recipe! The right mix gives a tender crumb, rich flavor, and a cinnamon sugar topping everyone will love.
Step-by-Step Mixing Process

Making tasty homemade baked goods needs care and precision. I’ll show you how to mix our Cinnamon Donut Bread. This way, it will always be tender and moist.
First, get all your ingredients ready. Then, use a big mixing bowl. The secret to yummy treats is mixing ingredients well.
- Cream butter and sugar for exactly 2 minutes
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly
- Incorporate vanilla extract smoothly
- Gently fold in dry ingredients
Use room temperature butter and eggs for mixing. This makes the batter smooth and even. Tip: Room temperature ingredients blend more evenly!
“Baking is a science, and mixing is an art.” – Professional Baker’s Secret
It’s important to mix wet and dry ingredients separately. This keeps the bread light and fluffy. Don’t worry about a few small lumps.
Watch how you mix. Too much mixing can make the bread tough. Just mix until everything is combined. Make sure to scrape the bowl’s sides well.
Creating the Perfect Cinnamon Swirl
The magic of cinnamon swirl bread is its stunning look and rich taste. Making this sweet bread is special. The swirling technique turns a simple loaf into a treat.

Layering Technique for Cinnamon Swirl Bread
For the best cinnamon swirl bread, layer your batter carefully. Start by splitting your batter into two parts:
- Main batter (about 3/4 of total volume)
- Cinnamon-enhanced batter (about 1/4 of total volume)
Mastering the Swirling Method
The secret to a perfect swirl is gentle movement. Here’s how to make those beautiful cinnamon ribbons:
- Pour half the main batter into your loaf pan
- Add dollops of cinnamon batter on top
- Pour the rest of the main batter
- Add more cinnamon batter dollops
- Use a butter knife for gentle figure-eight motions
Avoiding Common Swirling Mistakes
When making cinnamon swirl bread, watch out for these mistakes:
- Don’t overmix – keep batter layers separate
- Avoid stirring too hard that messes up the pattern
- Keep knife movements light and minimal
- Stop swirling when you see beautiful marble-like patterns
By following these tips, you’ll make a cinnamon swirl bread that looks and tastes amazing!
Baking Instructions and Tips
Making tasty homemade baked goods needs care and precision. I’ll show you how to bake this cinnamon donut bread perfectly. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
To start, make sure your oven is at the right temperature. Heat it to 350°F (177°C). Place the rack in the middle for even heat.
- Baking time: 40-45 minutes
- Oven temperature: 350°F
- Pan size: 9×5 inch loaf pan
Watch for these signs when baking:
- Golden brown top with slight cracking
- Toothpick test: Should come out with a few moist crumbs
- Edges pulling slightly away from the pan
Pro tip: Don’t open the oven door too often! It can mess with your bread’s texture and rise. Check after 40 minutes.
After baking, let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes. This helps it set and makes it easier to remove. Use a knife to loosen the edges, then move it to a wire rack to cool fully before slicing.
The Secret to the Perfect Sugar Coating
Creating a tasty cinnamon sugar topping makes our donut-inspired bread special. It adds a crunchy texture and a sweet, spicy taste. It’s like biting into your favorite bakery treat.
Butter Application Method
I found the best way to apply butter for a perfect coat. Here’s how to do it:
- Use melted unsalted butter at room temperature
- Brush butter generously using a pastry brush
- Cover all surfaces, including edges and corners
- Ensure an even, thin layer for maximum sugar adherence
Sugar-Cinnamon Mixture Ratio
The right mix of sugar and cinnamon makes the topping great. Here’s what I use:
Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
---|---|---|
Granulated Sugar | 1/4 cup | Primary sweetness |
Brown Sugar | 1/4 cup | Deeper caramel notes |
Ground Cinnamon | 1/2 teaspoon | Warm, spicy flavor |
When your bread is done, let it cool a bit. Then, dip it in melted butter and roll in cinnamon sugar. Press it gently to stick, making it crunchy like a donut.
Pro tip: The warmth of the bread helps the sugar stick well. This gives you that bakery-style finish everyone loves!
Storage and Serving Suggestions
Keeping your breakfast bread fresh is key. I’ll show you how to store your homemade treats. This way, they’ll stay tasty for days.
Storing Your Cinnamon Donut Bread
Here’s how to store your bread:
- Room temperature storage: Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days
- Refrigerator storage: Wrap tightly and store for up to 1 week
- Freezer storage: Preserve for up to 3 months
Freezing and Thawing Tips
Freezing is great for keeping your bread fresh. Cool the bread completely before wrapping. Use plastic wrap and then a freezer-safe bag. To thaw, just leave it at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions
This treat is perfect for many meals:
- Toast and spread with butter or cream cheese
- Pair with morning coffee or afternoon tea
- Transform into decadent French toast
- Create a quick bread pudding dessert
Pro tip: Warm a slice in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. It’ll taste like it just came out of the oven.
Enjoy your cinnamon donut bread within 3 days for the absolute best flavor and texture!
Recipe Variations and Substitutions
My cinnamon swirl bread recipe is very flexible. You can make many changes to it. This lets you make it fit your diet or try new tastes.
Want a gluten-free version? Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour mix. It keeps the bread soft and tasty. You might need a bit more liquid because gluten-free flours soak up moisture differently.
Want to make it even better? Add chopped nuts, raisins, or dried cranberries for extra crunch. Try almond extract instead of vanilla or add orange zest for a new flavor.
Need to change it for your diet? Cut down sugar with honey or maple syrup. Use brown sugar for a caramel taste. The choices are endless, making this bread a favorite in kitchens everywhere.
FAQ
Can I make this Cinnamon Donut Bread gluten-free?
Yes! Use a gluten-free flour blend for a 1:1 swap. You might need to add a bit more liquid, as gluten-free flours soak up moisture differently.
How long will the Cinnamon Donut Bread stay fresh?
It stays fresh for 3-4 days in an airtight container at room temperature. Refrigeration can extend it to a week. Freeze it for up to 3 months in a sealed bag.
Can I add mix-ins to the bread?
Absolutely! Add chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit. Fold them gently into the batter before baking.
Is this recipe suitable for beginners?
Yes, it’s great for all skill levels. It’s easy to make without yeast or complex steps. Even beginners can make this tasty bread.
Can I make this bread dairy-free?
Use non-dairy milk and a dairy-free butter substitute. Make sure the substitutes have similar fat content for the right moisture.
What’s the best way to serve Cinnamon Donut Bread?
It’s versatile! Enjoy it for breakfast, as a snack, or dessert. Try it toasted with butter or cream cheese. It’s also great for bread pudding or French toast.
Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?
You can reduce sugar slightly. But remember, it’s key for texture and moisture. Cutting back too much might make it less sweet and drier.
How do I know when the bread is fully baked?
Use the toothpick test. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs, it’s done. The top should be golden and slightly cracked. If wet, bake for 5 more minutes and test again.
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How to Make Homemade Cinnamon Donut Bread
- Total Time: 1H
- Yield: 10 slices 1x
Description
Learn how to make this delicious cinnamon donut bread, a quick bread that captures the flavors of a cinnamon sugar donut in an easy-to-bake loaf. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack.
Ingredients
- (For the Bread):
- * 2 cups all-purpose flour
- * 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- * 1 1/4 Cups Sugar for Bread Mixture
- * 1/2 Cup Sugar for Cinnamon Mixture
- * 2 teaspoons baking powder
- * 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- * 1 1/4 cups whole milk, room temperature
- * 1 large egg, room temperature
- * 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly
- * 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- * 1 Teaspoon Ground Cinnamon
- * 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- * 1/4 teaspoon salt
- * 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- (For the Cinnamon Swirl – Create a separate mixture, as described in the “Mastering the Cinnamon Swirl” section):
- 1/4 of prepared batter
- * 1-2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- (For the Cinnamon-Sugar Coating/Topping):
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions
- Section 1: Preparing the Batter
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan (or line it with parchment paper).
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, 1 1/4 cups of the sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Do not overmix. A few small lumps are okay.
- Section 2: Creating the Cinnamon Swirl
- Take approximately 1/4 of the batter and place it in a separate bowl.
- Add 1-2 tablespoons of ground cinnamon to the smaller portion of batter and mix well. (You must provide more specific instructions here. This is currently very vague.)
- Section 3: Layering and Swirling
- Pour half of the plain batter into the prepared loaf pan.
- Dollop spoonfuls of the cinnamon batter over the plain batter.
- Pour the remaining plain batter over the cinnamon batter.
- Dollop more spoonfuls of the cinnamon batter on top.
- Using a butter knife or skewer, gently swirl the batters together in a figure-eight motion. Do not over-swirl.
- Section 4: Baking the Bread
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter). The top should be golden brown and slightly cracked.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.
- Section 5: Applying the Cinnamon-Sugar Coating
- While the bread is still warm (but not hot), brush the top and sides with the melted butter.
- In a shallow dish, combine the 1/2 cup sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg for the topping.
- Gently roll the buttered bread in the cinnamon-sugar mixture to coat completely.
- Section 6: Cooling and Serving
- Let cool completely.
- Prep Time: 15M
- Cook Time: 45M
- Category: Breakfast
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 250 Calories
Keywords: cinnamon donut bread, donut bread, cinnamon bread, quick bread, sweet bread, breakfast bread, recipe, easy recipe, cinnamon swirl bread