Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you love the classic taste of cinnamon sugar donuts but want a simpler way to enjoy those flavors at home, Cinnamon Donut Bread is your answer. It’s quick to prepare, uses common pantry ingredients, and delivers the irresistible cinnamon-sugar sweetness in every bite. This bread is perfect for sharing or enjoying alongside a cup of coffee or tea. Plus, it’s great for making ahead and storing for busy mornings.

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1 tbsp baking powder
1 tsp salt
1 tbsp ground cinnamon
1 cup milk
2 large eggs
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 tsp vanilla extract

For the cinnamon sugar swirl and topping:

1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 tbsp ground cinnamon
2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted (for brushing)
Optional glaze: 1 cup powdered sugar mixed with 1-2 tbsp milk or cream

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
Make the Batter:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
- In another bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir just until combined. Do not overmix.
Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Swirl:
- In a small bowl, mix the sugar and cinnamon for the swirl.
Assemble the Bread:
- Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
- Sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the batter.
- Pour the remaining batter on top.
- Sprinkle the remaining cinnamon sugar over the top.
Bake:
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- About 10 minutes before the bread is done, brush the top with melted butter and sprinkle extra cinnamon sugar on top to create a crunchy crust.
Cool and Glaze (Optional):
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- If desired, drizzle the optional glaze over the cooled bread for extra sweetness.
Serve:
- Slice and enjoy warm or at room temperature.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 8-10 slices
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 50-60 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

Add Nuts: Fold in 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch.
Apple Cinnamon: Add 1 cup finely chopped apples to the batter for a fruity twist.
Glaze Variations: Use maple glaze or cream cheese frosting for a richer topping.
Spiced Up: Add 1/2 tsp nutmeg or allspice to the cinnamon sugar mixture for a warm spice blend.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Freezing: Wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Reheating: Warm slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a toaster oven to refresh the cinnamon sugar crust.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of milk?

Yes, you can substitute any milk, including almond, soy, or oat milk.

Is this bread gluten-free?

This recipe uses all-purpose flour, but you can substitute with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking.

Can I make this bread vegan?

To make it vegan, substitute eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water per egg) and use plant-based milk and vegan butter.

How do I prevent the bread from being dry?

Avoid overmixing the batter and make sure not to overbake the bread. Check for doneness a few minutes before the suggested baking time.

Can I make muffins instead of bread?

Yes! Divide the batter into a muffin tin lined with paper liners, sprinkle with cinnamon sugar, and bake at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes.

Can I add chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Add 1/2 cup chocolate chips to the batter for a sweet chocolate twist.

How do I store leftover bread?

Keep the bread in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge to maintain freshness.

Can I use light brown sugar instead of granulated sugar?

Yes, light brown sugar will add a slight molasses flavor and extra moisture.

Is it necessary to add the cinnamon sugar swirl?

No, but it adds that signature cinnamon donut flavor and texture that makes this bread special.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, double the ingredients and bake in two loaf pans or a larger pan, adjusting baking time accordingly.

Conclusion

Cinnamon Donut Bread captures the cozy, sweet flavors of cinnamon sugar donuts in an easy-to-make loaf. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an anytime snack, this bread delivers a moist, tender crumb with a delightful cinnamon-sugar crust. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can enjoy the nostalgic taste of fresh-baked donuts in a convenient sliceable form. Whether enjoyed plain or with a drizzle of glaze, Cinnamon Donut Bread is sure to become a beloved staple in your baking repertoire.