The tantalizing smell of cinnamon swirling through the air transports me to my childhood kitchen, where warm, sweet treats were always just a whisk away. Today, I’m thrilled to share my beloved recipe for Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread—a delightful twist on a classic breakfast that combines the joy of homemade comfort food with the ease of quick baking. Not only is this recipe perfect for cozy weekends or last-minute brunches, but it’s also a sure-fire way to impress your loved ones without the fuss of frying donuts. With its fluffy texture and a sugary, spiced crust, each slice evokes fond memories while offering pure bliss. Are you ready to indulge your senses and bring a taste of nostalgia to your table? Let’s dive in!
Why is this donut bread a must-try?
Indulgent, soulful flavors: Each bite of this Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread is a warm embrace, layered with nostalgic flavors that evoke cherished childhood memories.
Effortless prep: With minimal ingredients and straightforward instructions, you’ll whip up this comforting treat in no time!
Versatile delight: Perfect for breakfast or as a snack, enjoy it warm, paired with coffee or tea, or even drizzle it with icing for an extra touch!
Crowd pleaser: Impress friends and family at brunch gatherings with this delectable twist on classic donuts—no frying required!
Easy variations: Feel free to customize by adding chocolate chips or nuts, making it uniquely yours! This recipe is all about enjoying the sweet moments in life.
Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread Ingredients
• Create your own comforting treat with these simple ingredients!
For the Bread
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides the essential structure and tenderness to your Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread.
- Granulated Sugar – Adds delightful sweetness for that classic donut flavor.
- Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent, ensuring a fluffy texture.
- Kosher Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances flavors beautifully.
- Whole Milk – Keeps the bread moist and adds richness to every bite.
- Large Egg – Binds the ingredients together for a perfect bread structure.
- Unsalted Butter – Infuses buttery flavor and moisture for a decadent finish.
- Vanilla Extract – Adds warmth and sweet aroma to the batter.
For the Spiced Sugar Coating
- Unsalted Butter – Helps the sugar mixture adhere to the bread while adding richness.
- Granulated Sugar – Creates a delightful crunch and sweetness on the exterior.
- Ground Cinnamon – The star of the recipe, delivering the classic cinnamon flavor everyone loves.
- Ground Nutmeg – Enhances the cinnamon flavor with its warm, spicy notes.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), allowing it to reach the perfect baking temperature. While it heats, prepare an 8×4-inch loaf pan by greasing it generously with butter or cooking spray, ensuring a non-stick surface for your delightful Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and kosher salt. Ensure these dry ingredients are thoroughly combined to create a uniform mixture, which is crucial for the perfect rise and texture of your bread. Set this bowl aside while you prepare the wet ingredients.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix whole milk, large egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract until well combined. Take your time to ensure that all the ingredients are fully incorporated, creating a smooth and creamy mixture. This wet blend will add moisture and richness, making your Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread incredibly delightful.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gently pour the wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients, stirring with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine. This gentle approach ensures your Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread remains fluffy and tender once baked, so think tender thoughts as you stir!
Step 5: Pour Batter into Pan
Transfer the batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. This process creates an even surface for that beautiful rise and finish. Be sure to scrape down the sides of your bowl to get every last bit of that delightful batter into the pan.
Step 6: Prepare Spiced Sugar Coating
In a small bowl, mix together melted butter, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. This spiced sugar mixture is the magic touch that will create a crunchy, flavorful crust. Drizzle it evenly over the batter in the loaf pan, ensuring every part will get that sweet, spiced coating.
Step 7: Bake the Bread
Place the loaf pan in your preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the bread turns golden brown on top, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The enticing aroma of cinnamon will fill your kitchen, making the wait both sweet and rewarding.
Step 8: Cool the Bread
Once baked, remove your Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread from the oven, and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This resting time helps it firm up, making it easier to transfer. After that, gently remove it from the pan and place it on a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Expert Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread
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Room Temperature Egg: Start with a room temperature egg; it helps achieve better mixing and contributes to a fluffier texture.
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Gentle Mixing: Avoid overmixing the batter to maintain a tender and light bread. A few lumps are okay!
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Even Sugar Coating: Sprinkle the spiced sugar mixture evenly for consistent flavor throughout every slice of the Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread.
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Toothpick Test: Don’t skip the toothpick test; it should come out clean to ensure your bread is fully baked and perfectly fluffy.
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Cooling Time: Allow the bread to cool slightly in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack to prevent sogginess.
Make Ahead Options
These Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread are perfect for busy home cooks looking to streamline their meal prep! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix the dry ingredients and store them in an airtight container, then combine with the wet ingredients when you’re ready to bake. If you want to bake ahead, this bread can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for 5 days. For the best texture and flavor, cool it completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat slices in the oven for a few minutes to restore that lovely warmth and freshness—deliciousness made easy, right at your fingertips!
How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread
Room Temperature: Store your Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep it fresh and delicious.
Fridge: If you want to extend its shelf life, refrigerate the bread in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Just remember it might lose a bit of its fluffiness.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag to freeze for up to 3 months. This way, you can enjoy a slice any time!
Reheating: To enjoy frozen slices, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight, then reheat in a toaster or microwave for a few seconds to regain that fresh-baked warmth.
What to Serve with Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread
Indulging in warm slices of cinnamon goodness opens the door to a delightful breakfast experience that pairs perfectly with comforting accompaniments.
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Fresh Berries: The tartness of strawberries or blueberries balances the sweetness of the bread, adding a refreshing twist.
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Creamy Yogurt: A dollop of Greek yogurt lends creaminess and tang, creating a beautifully rounded flavor profile while adding a healthy touch.
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Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy, savory eggs provide a hearty contrast to the sweet bread, making it a well-rounded breakfast.
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Warm Coffee: A steaming cup of your favorite coffee enhances the cinnamon aroma, creating a cozy, comforting morning ritual.
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Chai Tea: The warm spices of chai tea harmonize beautifully with the cinnamon flavor, offering a soothing beverage to sip alongside.
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Maple Syrup Drizzle: A drizzle of maple syrup adds an extra layer of sweetness that complements the spiced crust, taking indulgence to new heights.
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Icing Sugar: Lightly sprinkle icing sugar on top for an elegant finish, elevating both flavor and appearance, perfect for brunch gatherings.
Variations & Substitutions for Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread
Feel free to get creative and customize your Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread with these exciting twists that will elevate your baking experience!
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Whole Wheat Flour: Substitute up to 25% of the all-purpose flour for a heartier texture and added nutrients. This brings a slightly nuttier flavor, making it a wholesome delight.
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Dairy-Free Delight: Use almond milk or oat milk in place of whole milk for a dairy-free version, and enjoy every bite without missing the creaminess.
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Chocolate Chip Surprise: Add a handful of chocolate chips to the batter before baking for a sweet chocolatey surprise in every slice, perfect for those with a sweet tooth.
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Nutty Crunch: Stir in a quarter cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a delightful crunch, adding texture and flavor that pairs wonderfully with the cinnamon.
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Pumpkin Spice Twist: Swap the ground cinnamon for pumpkin pie spice for a fall-inspired variation that brings a warm, cozy flavor to your breakfast table.
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Zesty Lemon: Add the zest of one lemon to the batter for a bright twist that complements the sweetness and adds a refreshing note.
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Maple Icing Drizzle: Create a simple maple icing with powdered sugar and maple syrup for a sweet topping that transforms your donut bread into a treat to remember.
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Cinnamon Roll Style: Spread a layer of softened cream cheese mixed with a little powdered sugar in the center before baking to give your bread a delicious creamy core, reminiscent of cinnamon rolls.
These delightful variations are perfect for customizing your Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread, inviting you to explore flavors and ingredients that resonate with your taste. If you’re up for more inspiration, you might consider pairing it with a warm cup of coffee or a slice of your favorite fruit for a truly delightful breakfast!
Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my ingredients are ripe or good to use?
Absolutely! For the best results, use fresh ingredients. Check your flour and sugar for any signs of clumping or pests—if they smell off or have a strange texture, it’s best to toss them. Your eggs should be clean and free from odor, while milk should be cold and fresh, ideally within its expiration date.
What’s the best way to store any leftover Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread?
Very! Store your Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days for the best taste. If you’d like to keep it longer, refrigerating it will extend its freshness to about 5 days, though you may notice a slight decrease in fluffiness.
Can I freeze the Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread, and how?
Of course! To freeze your Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. This will preserve their delicious taste for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and then reheat in a toaster or microwave for a few seconds.
What if my Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread is too dense?
Don’t worry! If you find your bread is dense, it may be due to overmixing the batter. To avoid this, mix the wet and dry ingredients just until combined. Also, ensure that your baking powder is fresh. If it’s expired, it won’t help your bread rise, leading to a heavy texture.
Are there any allergies I should be aware of with this recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe contains common allergens like gluten (from the all-purpose flour), eggs, and dairy (from the milk and butter). To make it allergy-friendly, consider using gluten-free flour, almond milk, or coconut milk as substitutes, and a flaxseed egg as an egg replacement. Always double-check the labels on your ingredients to ensure safety!
Can I add other flavors or mix-ins to this recipe?
Very much so! This recipe is quite versatile! Feel free to add chocolate chips, dried fruit, or nuts to the batter for an extra burst of flavor. You can even experiment with different spices to create unique variations—try adding pumpkin pie spice or cardamom for a delightful twist on the classic Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread.
Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread for Cozy Mornings Made Easy
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8x4-inch loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and kosher salt.
- In another bowl, mix whole milk, large egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined.
- Transfer the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- In a small bowl, mix melted butter, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg for the coating.
- Drizzle the spiced sugar mixture evenly over the batter in the loaf pan.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
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