Cinnamon Donut Bread

I still remember the first time I made something that didn’t come from a box—Cinnamon Donut Bread. The smell of warm cinnamon and sugar filling my kitchen felt like magic. It tasted just like those old-fashioned donuts I used to buy from the corner bakery, but it came out of my own oven. That’s what makes this recipe so special—no frying, no fancy techniques—just a cozy loaf packed with familiar flavors.

This Cinnamon Donut Bread is a dream come true for beginner bakers. It’s easy to put together with basic pantry staples, and the results are impressive. You don’t need a mixer, a thermometer, or any baking experience—just a loaf pan and a love of cinnamon sugar. Plus, it’s a slightly healthier twist compared to deep-fried donuts, making it a great option for anyone looking for a sweet, feel-good treat.

Why This Recipe is Special

• It’s a no-fuss recipe—no yeast, no proofing, and no kneading required.
• It captures the flavor of a cinnamon sugar donut in a soft, moist loaf.
• Versatile enough to serve as breakfast, dessert, or a coffee break snack.
• Easily adaptable for different dietary needs or ingredient availability.
• Great for gift-giving or sharing—everyone loves it!

Ingredients and Preparation

Before we dive into measurements, let’s look at the key ingredients and their roles:

• Canola Oil: Adds moisture and a light texture. You can also use vegetable oil or melted coconut oil.
• Unsalted Butter: Contributes to the rich, donut-like flavor. Salted butter is okay—just reduce added salt.
• White Sugar: Brings sweetness and that classic donut profile. Sugar alternatives like monk fruit sweetener can be used.
• Eggs: Help bind the loaf and add structure. For egg-free, use unsweetened applesauce or flaxseed meal.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds warmth and enhances the cinnamon flavor.
• All-Purpose Flour: Forms the structure of the bread. You can substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
• Baking Powder: Gives the bread lift and keeps it light.
• Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances other flavors.
• Buttermilk: Makes the loaf tender and adds a subtle tang. Substitute with milk plus a splash of lemon juice or vinegar.
• Ground Cinnamon: The star spice—warm, aromatic, and comforting.
• Molasses: Deepens the flavor and adds a donut-like richness. Honey, dark corn syrup, or maple syrup also work.
• Light Brown Sugar (for topping): Adds depth and a soft crunch when mixed with cinnamon.
• Melted Butter (for topping): Helps the cinnamon sugar stick to the crust.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1
Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a standard 9×5 loaf pan using cooking spray or butter.

Step 2
In a large mixing bowl, combine the canola oil, softened butter, and white sugar. Mix until smooth and creamy—this forms the base of your batter.

Step 3
Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the mixture. Stir until fully incorporated and smooth.

Step 4
Add the flour, baking powder, salt, and buttermilk. Mix gently until a smooth batter forms. Be careful not to overmix—it should look creamy and uniform.

Step 5
Scoop out about ½ cup of the batter into a separate small bowl. Add cinnamon and molasses to this portion and mix to form your cinnamon swirl batter.

Step 6
Pour half of the plain batter into your prepared loaf pan. Spoon dollops of the cinnamon batter over the top, then repeat with the remaining batters. You should have layers of plain and cinnamon swirl.

Step 7
Use a butter knife to gently swirl the batters together for a marbled effect. Avoid over-swirling to keep distinct ribbons.

Step 8
Bake the loaf for 45–50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown.

Step 9
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Meanwhile, mix your topping sugars and cinnamon in a shallow dish and pour melted butter into another.

Step 10
Carefully remove the loaf and dip all sides into the melted butter. Spoon any remaining butter over the edges to coat fully. Press the loaf into the cinnamon-sugar mixture until thoroughly covered.

Step 11
Slice and serve while still warm for the full donut experience, or let it cool to enjoy later. It’s just as delicious at room temperature.

Beginner Tips and Notes

• If your bread crumbles, it may be slightly underbaked or wasn’t fully cooled. Let it rest before slicing.
• Use a flour-sugar-butter spray or line the pan with parchment for easier removal.
• For a darker swirl, add a pinch of nutmeg or use dark brown sugar in the cinnamon batter.
• No loaf pan? You can make this recipe in muffin tins or a Bundt pan—just adjust the baking time.
• Store in an airtight container at room temp for up to 3 days, or freeze slices individually for grab-and-go treats.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a cup of coffee or chai tea for a cozy breakfast.
• Add a dollop of Greek yogurt or fresh berries on the side for a balanced snack.
• Drizzle with a simple glaze (powdered sugar and milk) for an extra touch of sweetness.
• Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert.
• Leftovers make excellent French toast or bread pudding.

Conclusion

If you’ve ever wanted to bake but felt overwhelmed, this Cinnamon Donut Bread is your gateway. It’s sweet, simple, and guaranteed to impress. Try it out, and don’t be afraid to make it your own with a twist of nutmeg, a splash of maple, or even a chocolate swirl. Drop a comment and let us know how yours turned out—we’d love to hear your variations and baking wins.

FAQ About Cinnamon Donut Bread

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