Cinnamon Donut Bread Loaf

Cinnamon Donut Bread is everything I love about bakery classics but easier to make at home and just as satisfying. Imagine a super-moist loaf with ribbons of cinnamon sugar running through every bite and a buttery crisp top that tastes just like your favorite cinnamon donut. Whether for breakfast or dessert, this bread sparks nostalgia and brings everyone to the kitchen.

I served this after a snowy weekend breakfast and by noon only crumbs remained. Now my family asks for this any time we need something special without the fuss.

Ingredients

• All purpose flour: gives shape and structure choose a fresh bag for fluffiest texture
• Granulated sugar: sweetens the loaf and helps the topping get that donut crunch
• Baking powder and baking soda: ensure lift and softness check freshness by bubbling with vinegar or water
• Salt: balances the sweetness and brightens flavors use fine sea salt for even mixing
• Buttermilk: keeps the bread moist and tender homemade buttermilk works too
• Unsalted butter: adds richness and ensures a tender crumb
• Eggs: bind the loaf and add lightness use large eggs at room temperature
• Vanilla extract: deepens the flavor real vanilla brings the best aroma
• Brown sugar: brings a deep molasses warmth perfect for the cinnamon swirl
• Ground cinnamon: provides the classic donut flavor use fresh ground cinnamon for a bigger punch

For the topping

• Unsalted butter: makes the top buttery and delicious
• Granulated sugar and ground cinnamon: team up for the signature donut taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat and Prepare:

Set your oven to three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit and grease a nine by five inch loaf pan with butter or cooking spray. You can also use parchment paper to avoid sticking and for easy removal after baking.

Combine Dry Ingredients:

In a large mixing bowl add the flour granulated sugar baking powder baking soda and salt. Whisk thoroughly to make sure everything is evenly blended for even flavor and texture.

Mix Wet Ingredients:

In a separate medium bowl whisk buttermilk melted butter eggs and vanilla extract until completely smooth. The mixture should be well blended with no streaks of egg or butter.

Form the Batter:

Slowly pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently fold together with a spatula until just combined. Make sure you stop mixing as soon as no flour streaks remain so the crumb stays extra soft.

Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Swirl:

In a small bowl mix the brown sugar and ground cinnamon until the mixture has no lumps. This sweet combo is ready to create those classic swirls in the bread.

Create Layers:

Pour half the batter into the prepared pan and spread into an even layer. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture over the surface. Add the rest of the batter on top. Sprinkle remaining cinnamon sugar then use a butter knife to gently swirl creating waves and pockets of cinnamon throughout.

Bake to Perfection:

Slide the pan into the oven and bake for about fifty to sixty minutes. The loaf is ready when a toothpick comes out clean from the center with only a few moist crumbs and the bread is golden brown.

Cool Properly:

Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for ten minutes. Carefully lift out onto a wire rack and allow it to cool further so the structure sets and slices cleanly.

Add Cinnamon Sugar Topping:

While the loaf is still warm brush the top with melted butter. Mix granulated sugar and ground cinnamon in a bowl then sprinkle this mixture over the entire surface to create a sweet and crunchy finish.

Serve and Enjoy:

Cut the loaf into thick slices. Enjoy it warm or at room temperature. This bread is a treat any time of day and fills the kitchen with delicious bakery aromas.

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I always look forward to swirling the cinnamon sugar and seeing those ribbons after slicing. My kids love to help with the butter and sugar topping which turns the loaf into a real family project.

Storage Tips

Store your cinnamon donut bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If the kitchen is humid or you want to keep it longer place the bread in the refrigerator for up to a week. For best results when freezing wrap the cooled loaf in plastic wrap followed by a layer of foil. Let thaw at room temperature for several hours before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you are out of buttermilk quickly make your own by adding one tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to a measuring cup then adding milk to the one cup line. Let it sit for five minutes and use as directed. Applesauce can stand in for half the butter if you want extra moisture and less fat. Chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts can add a little crunch just fold in half a cup to the batter with the final swirl.

Serving Suggestions

Cinnamon donut bread shines on its own but also works wonderfully with coffee or tea for an afternoon break. For an indulgent dessert try warming thick slices then topping with vanilla ice cream or cream cheese glaze. This bread also travels well and is perfect for brunch spreads or gifting during holidays.

Bringing Classic Flavors Home

What makes this recipe special is how it combines the tenderness of a homemade loaf with the flavors of an old fashioned cinnamon donut. Without frying or fuss you get that nostalgic scent and sweet crunch that reminds many of their favorite local bakery or family gatherings. Cinnamon donuts have a place in so many memories and this bread brings that comfort straight to your kitchen.

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I make the cinnamon swirl inside the bread?

After preparing the batter, layer half in the pan, sprinkle with the cinnamon-sugar mixture, add the rest of the batter, then top and swirl gently with a knife to create a marbled effect.

→ Can I use a substitute for buttermilk?

Yes, you can make a quick substitute by adding a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to regular milk. Let it sit for five minutes before using.

→ What adds moisture and flavor to this bread?

Buttermilk and melted butter add tenderness and richness, while brown sugar and cinnamon provide sweet, aromatic flavor throughout.

→ How should this bread be stored for freshness?

Store the loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate it for up to one week. It also freezes well if tightly wrapped.

→ Are there options for enhancing the bread?

For added texture, include chopped walnuts or pecans. You can also swap some butter for applesauce for extra moisture.

→ What’s the best way to serve cinnamon donut bread?

Slice thick and serve as a breakfast treat, an afternoon snack with coffee or tea, or as a comforting dessert.