As the sun begins to rise, the delightful aroma of cinnamon wafts through my kitchen, instantly painting a warm picture of cozy mornings. This Cinnamon Donut Bread is my go-to recipe when I crave a sweet twist on breakfast. With its tender crumb and delightful crunchy cinnamon sugar topping, it’s the perfect harmony of comfort and indulgence. Plus, it’s a breeze to whip up! In just 15 minutes of prep time, you’ll have a crowd-pleasing delight that is equally perfect for breakfast or dessert. A slice of this enchanting bread, with its irresistible donut-like charm, will wrap you in warmth and bliss. Who wouldn’t want a slice of joy to start their day? What will you pair with this heavenly loaf?
Why is Cinnamon Donut Bread a Must-Try?
Irresistible aroma: Baking this bread fills your home with the warm, inviting scent of cinnamon that will have everyone flocking to the kitchen.
Quick prep time: In just 15 minutes, you can get this simple, beginner-friendly recipe started, making it perfect for busy mornings or last-minute gatherings.
Versatile delight: Enjoy it warm with butter, or serve it alongside a cup of coffee for a cozy breakfast or dessert option.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether you’re hosting friends or simply treating yourself, this charming loaf boasts flavors that will win over everyone.
Creative variations: Feel free to customize your loaf! Add in chocolate chips or nuts for an exciting twist. For more ideas on experimenting with flavors, check out these Protein Donuts for a Healthier Indulgence.
Cinnamon Donut Bread Ingredients
For the Bread
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure for the bread, but you can substitute with whole wheat or gluten-free blends for variation.
• Baking Powder – Acts as the leavening agent for that delightful rise.
• Salt – Enhances the overall flavor beautifully.
• Granulated Sugar – Adds the perfect touch of sweetness and moisture.
• Ground Cinnamon – The star ingredient that creates that signature cinnamon taste.
• Ground Nutmeg – Adds warmth and depth; feel free to omit for a lighter flavor.
• Unsalted Butter (melted) – Brings moisture and richness; dairy-free butter or coconut oil works well as a substitute.
• Whole Milk – Ensures a moist loaf; swap with almond, soy, or oat milk for a dairy-free option.
• Large Eggs – Essential for binding and providing structure to the bread.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances the sweetness and aroma; imitation vanilla can be used if needed.
For the Topping
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetness that complements the bread perfectly.
• Ground Cinnamon – Essential for that extra burst of cinnamon flavor in the topping.
• Unsalted Butter (melted) – Creates a deliciously caramelized topping; a dairy-free alternative can also be used.
This Cinnamon Donut Bread combines familiar comfort with a delightful twist, making it a fabulous addition to your recipe collection!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cinnamon Donut Bread
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, prepare a 9×5-inch loaf pan by greasing it with butter or non-stick spray to ensure easy removal of your delicious Cinnamon Donut Bread. This preparation helps create that perfect golden crust as it bakes.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined. This step is essential as it evenly distributes the leavening agent and salt, ensuring a fluffy rise for your Cinnamon Donut Bread. Set this mixture aside so the flavors can meld while you focus on the wet ingredients.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and melted unsalted butter. Mix these ingredients until they form a smooth paste, ensuring there are no lumps of sugar or butter. This blend will create the sweet base for your bread, making every slice deliciously rich and flavor-packed.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Crack in the large eggs one at a time into the sugar mixture, beating well after each addition until fully incorporated. Following this, stir in the vanilla extract, infusing the Cinnamon Donut Bread with a warm, aromatic fragrance. This step binds the ingredients together, adding moisture and richness.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Now, gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the whole milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Be cautious not to overmix, as this could lead to a denser loaf. You’re aiming for a thick batter that is well mixed yet slightly lumpy.
Step 6: Transfer Batter to Pan
Pour the prepared batter into your greased loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula to create an even surface. This helps ensure that your Cinnamon Donut Bread bakes uniformly, achieving that delightful rise and lovely texture. The anticipation grows as you prepare for the oven!
Step 7: Prepare the Topping
In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and melted butter for the topping. Make sure it’s well combined to avoid clumps, which can create uneven patches on your bread. Sprinkle this cinnamon-sugar mixture generously over the top of the batter, adding a sweet and crunchy layer to your loaf.
Step 8: Bake the Bread
Place the loaf pan in the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. Start checking for doneness at around 50 minutes; the bread is ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, with a lovely golden-brown crust. This delightful Cinnamon Donut Bread will fill your kitchen with enticing aromas while it bakes.
Step 9: Cool the Bread
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This cooling time allows the bread to set, making it easier to remove. After 10 minutes, gently transfer the bread to a wire rack to cool completely. The cooling step ensures you can slice it neatly later.
Step 10: Slice and Serve
Finally, when your Cinnamon Donut Bread is cool, slice it into generous pieces and prepare to enjoy. Whether served warm with a touch of butter or alongside your favorite beverage, each slice showcases that delicious donut-like charm. Relish the flavors of this homemade treat, perfect for any occasion!
Make Ahead Options
These Cinnamon Donut Bread preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can pre-mix the dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, and salt) and store them in an airtight container up to 3 days in advance, allowing you to quickly combine them with your wet ingredients later. Additionally, the batter can be prepared up to 24 hours ahead; simply refrigerate it before baking to keep it fresh. When you’re ready to bake, give the batter a gentle stir to re-incorporate any settled ingredients, then pour it into the prepared pan and sprinkle on the topping just before placing it in the oven. This approach ensures your bread remains just as delicious, providing a warm and inviting treat with minimal effort!
How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon Donut Bread
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Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps the bread fresh and prevents it from drying out.
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Fridge: For longer freshness, you can refrigerate the Cinnamon Donut Bread wrapped in plastic wrap and then in foil for up to 1 week, though this might alter the texture slightly.
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Freezer: Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag; the bread can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or reheat in the oven!
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Reheating: To enjoy warm slices, pop them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or warm in a toaster oven until heated through. This revives the delicious flavors and comforting aroma!
Expert Tips for Cinnamon Donut Bread
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Mixing Essentials: Ensure proper blending of sugar and butter to avoid clumps, which can disrupt the smooth texture of your Cinnamon Donut Bread.
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Avoid Overbaking: Start checking for doneness at 50 minutes, as overbaking can lead to a dry loaf, losing that tender crumb you desire.
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Gentle Folding: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix gently to prevent gluten development, which can lead to a dense and heavy bread.
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Customize Flavors: Feel free to enhance the bread with add-ins like chocolate chips or nuts, creating your own unique twist on this Cinnamon Donut Bread recipe.
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Cool Completely: Allow the bread to cool on a wire rack before slicing to maintain its structure and avoid squished pieces.
What to Serve with Cinnamon Donut Bread?
Creating a delightful breakfast or brunch experience is easy with the warm, inviting flavors of this sweet loaf.
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Creamy Butter:
A generous spread of creamy butter on warm slices enhances flavor and adds richness, making each bite a true indulgence. -
Fresh Fruit Salad:
Bright, juicy fruits like strawberries and blueberries add a refreshing contrast to the warm spice of the bread. The combination brings a fresh, balanced taste. -
Coffee or Espresso:
Pairing this bread with a strong cup of coffee or espresso elevates your morning routine, offering a perfect harmony between sweet and bitter flavors. -
Vanilla Ice Cream:
Serving a slice warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream transforms it into an indulgent dessert. The melting ice cream complements the cinnamon sugar topping wonderfully. -
Maple Syrup Drizzle:
A touch of warm maple syrup adds delightful sweetness and enhances the comforting aroma, turning your bread into a cozy morning treat. -
Chocolate Spread:
Slather on some creamy chocolate spread for a decadent twist that the kids will adore. It’s an unexpected yet utterly delicious pairing!
Cinnamon Donut Bread Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to unleash your creativity and customize this delightful recipe to suit your tastes!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend for a delicious gluten-free option. Just ensure the blend contains a binding agent!
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Dairy-Free: Use almond, soy, or oat milk in place of whole milk and opt for dairy-free butter or coconut oil instead of regular butter to make it suitable for a dairy-free diet. The flavors will still shine through beautifully.
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Nutty Addition: Stir in chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the cinnamon perfectly. Each bite will be packed with delightful textures!
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Chocolate Lovers: Replace a portion of the flour with cocoa powder or fold in chocolate chips for a sweet chocolate-cinnamon combo. These two flavors meld together in a way that’s simply irresistible.
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Spice It Up: Swap ground nutmeg with pumpkin pie spice or cardamom for a seasonal twist that adds a unique spin. This makes the bread perfect for cozy fall nights.
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Zesty Kick: Grate in some orange or lemon zest to brighten up the flavors of the bread. A hint of citrus can elevate the overall taste and provide a refreshing contrast to the richness.
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Cinnamon Roll Layering: For a cinnamon roll effect, spread a layer of cinnamon sugar filling between two portions of batter. This creates delicious swirls and will make every slice a beautiful treat!
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Mini Loaves: Divide the batter into mini loaf pans for adorable, shareable portions. They bake quicker, making them a fun option for gatherings or gift-giving. You can personalize them with unique toppings, like a drizzle of glaze or sprinkles!
For more exciting ideas, consider checking out these delicious Protein Donuts for a Healthier Indulgence.
Cinnamon Donut Bread Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right ripeness of bananas for Cinnamon Donut Bread?
While bananas aren’t a direct ingredient in this Cinnamon Donut Bread recipe, if you choose to add banana as a variation, opt for bananas that are perfectly ripe with a few brown spots. This ensures maximum sweetness and moisture, enhancing the overall flavor of your bread.
How should I store Cinnamon Donut Bread and how long will it last?
To keep your Cinnamon Donut Bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need a longer shelf life, it can be refrigerated for about a week wrapped in plastic wrap. However, be aware that refrigeration may slightly alter the texture.
Can I freeze Cinnamon Donut Bread? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your Cinnamon Donut Bread, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then place the wrapped loaf or individual slices in a freezer-safe bag or container. This method keeps it fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it at room temperature or pop it in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds to warm it up.
What if my Cinnamon Donut Bread comes out too dense?
If your bread turns out denser than expected, it might be due to overmixing. When combining the wet and dry ingredients, gently fold them together until just combined. It’s also essential to measure your flour accurately; too much flour can lead to a heavy loaf. Next time, try spooning the flour into the measuring cup instead of scooping directly from the bag.
Is this recipe safe for people with allergies?
This Cinnamon Donut Bread recipe contains eggs, dairy, and gluten. For those with dietary restrictions, you can substitute the unsalted butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free alternative, use almond, soy, or oat milk instead of whole milk, and opt for a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour. Always double-check ingredient labels to ensure they suit your specific dietary needs!
Can I make this Cinnamon Donut Bread healthier?
Certainly! You can reduce sugar by using natural sweeteners like maple syrup or honey. Another option is to substitute some of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour or incorporate ground oats for added fiber. You can also add healthy mix-ins like nuts, seeds, or dried fruits for a nutritious twist!
Cinnamon Donut Bread: Your New Favorite Cozy Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a large bowl, combine the granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and melted butter until smooth.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, and mix gently.
- Transfer the batter to the greased loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Mix the topping ingredients together and sprinkle over the batter.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick.
- Allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
- Slice and serve warm, optionally with butter or your favorite beverage.
