Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread Recipe

If you have a soft spot for treats that combine comforting sweetness with a touch of spice, then you are going to adore this Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread. Imagine a loaf that bakes up golden and tender, infused with the warm aromas of cinnamon and nutmeg, and then gets generously coated in a buttery, cinnamon-sugar crust that’s nothing short of addictive. This is not just any bread; it’s like the best elements of a classic donut and a cozy cinnamon bread loaf coming together in perfect harmony. Whether it’s for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread offers that nostalgic, irresistible flavor with every slice.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward and pantry-friendly, proving that a few well-chosen items can come together to create something genuinely delightful. Each one plays a small but vital role in delivering the tender crumb, fluffy texture, and that signature sweet-spiced coating you’ll love.

• All-purpose flour (2 cups / 250 g): The sturdy base for our bread providing structure and softness when combined properly.
• Granulated sugar (1 ½ cups / 300 g): Adds sweetness and a slight caramelization during baking while tenderizing the crumb.
• Baking powder (2 teaspoons): The leavening agent that helps the bread rise and become light and fluffy.
• Kosher salt (½ teaspoon): Balances sweetness and enhances flavor depth without overwhelming.
• Whole milk (1 ¼ cups / 306 g): Contributes moisture and richness to keep the bread wonderfully soft.
• Large egg (1, room temperature): Bonds ingredients and adds moisture and tenderness.
• Unsalted butter, melted (2 tablespoons): Adds richness to the batter, ensuring a tender crumb.
• Vanilla extract (1 tablespoon): Brings a subtle warmth and aroma elevating the overall flavor.
• Unsalted butter, melted (¼ cup / 57 g): For brushing the bread to create that luscious cinnamon sugar coating.
• Granulated sugar (½ cup / 100 g): Combined with cinnamon and nutmeg to create the iconic sweet, spicy topping.
• Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon): The star spice adding that classic warm cinnamon flavor.
• Ground nutmeg (½ teaspoon): A hint of nutty spice that perfectly complements the cinnamon in the topping.

How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan

Start by setting your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit; this ensures the perfect baking temperature for a golden crust and tender interior. Don’t forget to spray an 8 ½ by 4 ½-inch loaf pan with nonstick cooking spray so your bread doesn’t stick and comes out cleanly.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the flour, 1 ½ cups of granulated sugar, baking powder, and kosher salt. This blend sets the foundation for your batter’s texture and sweetness.

Step 3: Whisk Together the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix the whole milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract until everything is fully incorporated. This wet mix brings moisture and flavor to balance the dry mix perfectly.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients slowly into the bowl with the dry mixture and stir gently. Be careful not to overmix; you want just enough blending to keep the batter slightly runny without toughening the bread.

Step 5: Pour Batter into Prepared Pan

Transfer the batter into your greased loaf pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula or the back of a spoon. This ensures an even bake and consistent crumb.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Set

Place the pan in the oven and bake for 60 to 70 minutes. The bread is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs and the crust is a beautiful golden brown.

Step 7: Cool and Butter the Bread

Remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool inside the pan for about 10 minutes. Then carefully lift it out onto parchment paper. While still warm, brush the entire surface with the remaining melted butter — this will help the cinnamon sugar topping stick perfectly.

Step 8: Make and Sprinkle the Cinnamon Sugar Topping

Combine ½ cup granulated sugar with cinnamon and nutmeg in a small bowl, then sprinkle it generously over the bread’s buttered surface. Rotate the loaf to evenly coat all sides with this magical mixture. If you have any extra topping, stash it for another use — it’s great on toast or even sprinkled on oatmeal.

How to Serve Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread

Garnishes

The cinnamon sugar topping is already a star, but you can elevate it with a dusting of powdered sugar or a light drizzle of vanilla glaze for an extra sweet touch. Freshly whipped cream or a scattering of chopped nuts like pecans can add a lovely contrast in texture and richness.

Side Dishes

This bread shines with a side of fresh fruit — think juicy berries or sliced apples — which add freshness and balance against the sweet, buttery richness. For a breakfast or brunch twist, a dollop of yogurt or even a smear of cream cheese on the side is wonderful alongside a thick slice of Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread.

Creative Ways to Present

For an eye-catching dessert, slice the bread thickly and toast the slices lightly, then serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce. You could also cut the bread into cubes and skewer them for a fun, sharable cinnamon donut bread kebab at your next gathering!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap your leftover Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness. It will keep well for up to 3 days without losing its delightful taste or moist texture.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy more later, this bread freezes beautifully. Wrap it securely in plastic wrap followed by foil or a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 2 months and thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving.

Reheating

To bring back that fresh-from-the-oven feel, warm slices in a toaster oven or regular oven at 300 degrees Fahrenheit for about 5 to 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the buttery sugar topping crisp and delicious.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of flour for Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread?

All-purpose flour is recommended because it provides the perfect balance of structure and tenderness. Using whole wheat or gluten-free flours will change the texture and may require adjustments in liquid or baking time.

Is it necessary to use whole milk?

Whole milk enriches the bread making it moist and tender, but you can substitute 2% milk or even a dairy-free milk alternative like almond or oat milk. Just note the flavor and texture might be slightly different.

Can I make this recipe without eggs?

Eggs help bind the ingredients and add moisture, but you can replace one egg with a flax egg or applesauce if needed. Expect a slightly different texture, but it will still be delicious.

How long does this bread stay fresh?

Stored properly at room temperature, the bread stays fresh for about 3 days. After that, it starts drying out, which is when freezing leftover slices is a great option.

Can I double the recipe for a larger batch?

Absolutely! Just double all the ingredients and bake in a larger loaf pan or two regular pans. Keep an eye on baking time—you might need to add a few minutes for the larger loaf(s) to bake through.

Final Thoughts

There is something so comforting and joyful about pulling a warm loaf of Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread from the oven, the smell alone feels like a hug. It’s the kind of recipe worth keeping on hand for weekends, special breakfasts, or anytime you want a little extra sweetness in your day. Give this recipe a try—you might just discover your new favorite way to enjoy a classic cinnamon treat in a loaf form that feels both nostalgic and fresh.

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