If you’re a fan of sweet, cozy treats that are simple to make but packed with flavor, this Cinnamon Donut Bread recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine the classic taste of a cinnamon sugar donut, baked into a soft, moist loaf with a perfectly crunchy crust. It’s the ultimate comfort food—ideal for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet afternoon snack.
Even better? This easy, no-yeast quick bread comes together with pantry staples in under an hour. Let’s dive into how to make it from scratch.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This baked cinnamon donut bread has everything going for it:
- A soft, cake-like interior
- A crisp cinnamon sugar topping
- No yeast or rising time required
- Great as a breakfast loaf or dessert
- Pairs beautifully with coffee or tea
Plus, it smells absolutely amazing while it bakes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Bread:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1 cup milk (room temperature)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ⅓ cup melted butter (unsalted)
For the Cinnamon Sugar Topping:
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (for brushing)
Cinnamon Donut Bread Recipe: Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, beat the eggs, then add the granulated sugar, brown sugar, milk, vanilla, and melted butter. Stir until well combined.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Gradually add the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—this will keep your loaf soft and moist.
Step 5: Pour and Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Make the Sugary Crust
While the bread is baking, mix together the cinnamon and sugar in a small bowl.
Step 7: Add the Crunch
Once the loaf is out of the oven and slightly cooled (about 10 minutes), brush the top with melted butter. Then generously sprinkle on the cinnamon sugar topping to create that signature donut-style crust.
Cinnamon Donut Bread Recipe Tips for Best Results
To help you get that perfect sugary crust and soft center every time, keep these tips in mind:
- Don’t overmix the batter—this can make the bread dense.
- Room temperature ingredients help everything combine smoothly.
- For a more indulgent version, swirl a bit of cinnamon sugar into the batter before baking.
- Store leftover slices in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
“Craving more baked goods? Check out our buttery homemade Gipfeli recipe.”
What to Serve With Cinnamon Donut Bread
This sweet loaf is incredibly versatile. You can enjoy it:
- Warm with a pat of butter
- With coffee or chai for breakfast
- As a dessert topped with whipped cream or a drizzle of icing
- Toasted slightly for extra crunch
It also makes a lovely gift during the holidays or as a housewarming treat.
Final Thoughts
This Cinnamon Donut Bread recipe is proof that delicious baked goods don’t have to be complicated. With basic ingredients and minimal prep, you can create a sweet, cinnamon-swirled loaf that feels like a hug in every slice. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just getting started, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
“Discover more delicious homemade bread recipes here.”