The tantalizing scent of warm spices and sugary sweetness can transform any moment into a cozy celebration, and that’s exactly what you’ll find with this Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread. This delightful quick bread captures the beloved flavors of traditional donuts without the hassle of yeast or frying. It’s a simple recipe that comes together in no time, making it perfect for those busy mornings or leisurely brunches with loved ones. Each slice boasts a soft, tender crumb and a delightful cinnamon-sugar crust, ensuring it becomes a go-to comfort food in your kitchen. Plus, it’s versatile enough to enjoy at breakfast, dessert, or whenever you crave something warm and comforting. Are you ready to fill your home with warmth and deliciousness? Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe!
Why is this Donut Bread a Must-Try?
Irresistible Aromas: The warm fragrance of cinnamon and sugar wafting from your oven will have everyone flocking to the kitchen in no time!
Simple to Make: With no yeast and minimal ingredients, whipping up this bread is a breeze—perfect for beginners and busy cooks alike.
Versatile Indulgence: Enjoy it as a delightful breakfast, a sweet snack, or a comforting dessert. You’ll find excuses to bake it any time!
Perfectly Moist Texture: The combination of butter and spices results in a soft, tender crumb that melts in your mouth, reminiscent of your favorite donuts.
Make-Ahead Friendly: This quick bread stores well, making it easy to prepare in advance for busy weekends or surprise guests. Plus, for an awesome twist, try adding some mini chocolate chips!
Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread Ingredients
• Cozy up with this easy-to-make delight!
For the Bread
- Butter – Adds richness and moisture. Substitute with margarine for a dairy-free option.
- Granulated Sugar – Provides sweetness and helps create a tender crumb. Brown sugar can be used for a caramel-like flavor.
- Eggs – Act as a binder, contributing to the bread’s structure. For egg-free, try flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 2.5 tbsp water per egg).
- Whole Milk – Ensures a rich, moist texture. Can be swapped for 2% milk or a non-dairy milk (like oat milk) for lactose-free.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances overall flavor profile. No direct substitute; omit if necessary.
- All-Purpose Flour – The main structure component of the bread. For gluten-free options, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
- Baking Powder – Provides leavening; essential for rise. No direct substitutes; it’s crucial for the texture.
- Baking Soda – Enhances browning and flavor. Do not skip; it balances the acidity from other ingredients.
- Salt – Enhances sweetness and balances flavors. Omit if on a low-sodium diet.
- Ground Cinnamon & Nutmeg – Provide warm spice flavor, reminiscent of donuts. Fresh spices deliver a more intense flavor.
For the Topping
- Melted Butter – Used for brushing the bread before coating with cinnamon sugar. This step helps create a luscious, glossy crust.
- Cinnamon Sugar – A delightful mixture for topping, bringing that classic donut taste to the bread. Adjust the cinnamon level to your preference!
Now that you have the Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread ingredients ready, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get baking!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While your oven heats, grab a 9×5-inch loaf pan and grease it with butter or line it with parchment paper to ensure easy removal once baked. This preparation sets the stage for your cozy Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread to have a perfect shape and texture.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together melted butter and granulated sugar until smooth and well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Now, stir in whole milk and vanilla extract, blending until creamy. This base of flavors will create the moist, rich interior of your delicious bread.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg. This step helps to aerate the flour and evenly distribute the leavening agents and spices, which are essential for achieving that delightful rise and warm flavors characteristic of Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread.
Step 4: Merge Mixtures
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, using a spatula to combine gently. Mix until just blended, ensuring no flour streaks remain; be careful not to overmix, as this could lead to a dense loaf. Your batter should be thick and slightly lumpy—perfect for capturing that tender crumb.
Step 5: Bake the Bread
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula for an even bake. Place the pan in the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Enjoy the enticing aroma of the Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread as it rises and bakes to golden perfection.
Step 6: Cool Before Slicing
Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This cooling period is crucial for the structure to set properly. Afterward, carefully transfer the loaf to a wire rack to cool completely, allowing the flavors to deepen and ensuring the best texture when sliced.
Step 7: Add the Topping
While the bread is still warm, brush the top generously with melted butter. Then, coat it thoroughly with cinnamon sugar to create a sweet, crunchy crust reminiscent of freshly made donuts. As you prepare to serve, the warm aroma will linger, inviting everyone to enjoy a slice of your delightful Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread.
Make Ahead Options
These Cozy Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread loaves are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix the wet and dry ingredients separately and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. This helps you maintain the bread’s tender crumb and flavor. When you’re ready to enjoy your delicious bread, combine the wet and dry mixtures and bake according to the recipe instructions. To prevent excess moisture, avoid refrigerating the fully mixed batter, as it can affect the texture. With these make-ahead tips, you can savor warm, freshly baked Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread anytime with minimal effort!
Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread Variations
Feel free to personalize your cinnamon sugar donut bread and make it truly yours with these delicious variations!
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Nutty Delight: Add ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture and earthy flavor that complements the sweetness perfectly.
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Chocolate Bliss: Stir in ½ cup of mini chocolate chips into the batter for a delightful surprise in every bite. Who can resist that gooey chocolate goodness?
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Fruity Twist: Incorporate ½ cup of diced apples or your favorite berries for a fruity flavor boost that adds freshness and natural sweetness to the bread.
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Cinnamon-Sugar Swirl: Create a mesmerizing marbled effect by adding a mixture of cinnamon and sugar to the batter, swirling it in before baking. This adds a delightful surprise in each slice.
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Spicy Kick: For a bit of heat, sprinkle a pinch of ground ginger or cayenne pepper into the batter, taking those cozy flavors to a whole new level.
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Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive friends while still delivering that comforting taste.
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Mini Loaves: Bake the batter in mini loaf pans for adorable individual treats, perfect for sharing! Just reduce baking time to about 30 minutes.
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Dairy-Free Delight: Use coconut oil and almond milk in place of butter and milk for a dairy-free version that retains all the flavors you love.
While you’re here, why not try serving slices of this tempting bread alongside a warm bowl of Gingerbread Chia Pudding for an extra cozy breakfast? And if you’ve got a sweet tooth, check out the recipe for Chocolate Chip Banana Bread for another delicious way to indulge!
How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread
Fridge: Store leftover slices in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. This allows you to freeze the Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes for a freshly-baked taste.
Room Temperature: If enjoying within a couple of days, keeping the bread at room temperature in a sealed container is perfectly fine for retaining moisture and deliciousness.
Expert Tips for Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread
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Avoid Overmixing: Mixing until just combined preserves the bread’s light and fluffy texture; a few lumps are perfectly fine.
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Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground cinnamon and nutmeg can significantly enhance flavor; don’t settle for stale spices from the back of your pantry.
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Check Doneness Carefully: Begin testing for doneness around 50 minutes—insert a toothpick into the center, and it should come out clean for a perfect loaf.
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Cool Completely: Let the bread cool fully on a wire rack to ensure it slices neatly without crumbling, capturing that ideal Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread texture.
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Mix-In Options: Consider adding mini chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or diced apples for a delightful twist in flavor and texture that compliments the cinnamon-sugar topping.
What to Serve with Cozy Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread
Surround yourself with flavors that elevate this sweet loaf into a memorable meal experience, making every bite an indulgent delight.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: The bright flavors of berries, melons, and citrus add a refreshing contrast to the warm sweetness of the bread, balancing both taste and texture.
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Creamy Greek Yogurt: A dollop of tangy Greek yogurt pairs beautifully with the bread’s sweetness, offering a luscious and creamy mouthfeel that perfectly complements each slice.
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Maple Syrup Drizzle: For a touch of sweetness, drizzle warm maple syrup over the bread. This adds a delightful layer of flavor reminiscent of cozy breakfasts.
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Coffee or Tea: Serve with a steaming cup of coffee or herbal tea to create a comforting atmosphere, enhancing the bread’s warm spices and sweet aroma.
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Ice Cream Scoop: A scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream served alongside the bread takes it to dessert heights, combining warm and cold for an irresistible treat.
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Nutty Granola: Crunchy granola sprinkled on top adds texture, bringing a toasted flavor profile that contrasts with the soft, tender bread.
Indulging in these pairings lets you savor the full experience of Cozy Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread, turning any moment into a sweet celebration.
Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best ingredients for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, use unsalted butter for richness and granulated sugar for sweetness. Choose fresh eggs and the highest quality whole milk you can find, as they greatly enhance moisture. For spices, look for ground cinnamon and nutmeg that are not past their expiration date; fresh spices give a more vibrant flavor. If you’re using flour, ensure it’s all-purpose for the ideal structure.
What’s the best way to store leftover Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread?
Very! To keep your delicious Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just remember to allow it to thaw in the fridge before warming it up.
Can I freeze Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread, let it cool completely. Once cooled, slice it into pieces if desired, and wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap to maintain freshness. Then, place the wrapped slices into a freezer-safe bag or container, ensuring you remove as much air as possible. You can freeze it for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it up in the oven for about 10-15 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
What if my bread sinks in the middle or is too dense?
The more the merrier! A sinking middle often occurs due to undercooking or excess moisture from overmixing the batter. To ensure a well-risen loaf, mix the ingredients until just combined and avoid overworking the batter. If your bread turns out too dense, make sure you’re using the correct measurements—too much flour or not enough leavening agents like baking powder can lead to a heavy texture.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Very! If you’re cooking for someone with dietary preferences, there are easy substitutions to consider. To make this recipe dairy-free, use margarine and a non-dairy milk like oat milk. For those needing egg-free options, substitute each egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 2.5 tbsp water) for a great binding alternative. Always be sure to check your spices and any mix-ins for potential allergens.
Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread: Your New Cozy Favorite!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter and granulated sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly. Stir in whole milk and vanilla extract until creamy.
- In another bowl, sift together all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula until just blended; do not overmix.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 50-60 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Brush the top with melted butter and coat generously with cinnamon sugar while still warm.
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