Cinnamon Donut Bread Recipe: A Deliciously Sweet Treat for Any Occasion
If you love the taste of classic cinnamon sugar donuts but want something even easier to make at home, this Cinnamon Donut Bread recipe is perfect for you. This moist and flavorful bread is an excellent choice for breakfast, dessert, or a sweet snack any time of day. Packed with warm spices and a soft, cake-like texture, this quick bread recipe is easy to prepare and requires simple pantry ingredients. Plus, with a delicious cinnamon sugar topping, this bread delivers the ultimate indulgence that will keep everyone coming back for more.
Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Donut Bread
Cinnamon Donut Bread is one of those irresistible baked goods that combines the rich flavors of cinnamon and nutmeg with a soft, buttery crumb. Unlike traditional yeast-based donuts, this easy bread recipe doesn’t require any frying, making it a healthier and more convenient alternative. Whether you’re enjoying it with a cup of coffee in the morning or serving it as a dessert at family gatherings, this homemade cinnamon bread is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
One of the best things about this recipe is its simplicity. You don’t need any special equipment—just a mixing bowl, a loaf pan, and an oven. If you’re looking for a baked treat that feels like a combination of a donut and a cake, this cinnamon bread recipe will quickly become one of your favorites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Making Cinnamon Donut Bread at home requires basic pantry staples. Here’s what you’ll need:
- All-purpose flour: The base of the bread, giving it structure and a soft texture.
- Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create the delicious cinnamon sugar topping.
- Baking powder: A leavening agent that ensures the bread rises properly.
- Salt: Enhances the flavor of the bread.
- Ground cinnamon: Provides warmth and spice, giving the bread its signature taste.
- Nutmeg: Complements the cinnamon for a rich, aromatic flavor.
- Unsalted butter: Adds moisture and richness to the bread.
- Milk: Helps create a smooth batter and keeps the bread soft.
- Eggs: Provide structure and help bind the ingredients together.
For the cinnamon sugar topping, you’ll need additional butter, sugar, and cinnamon. This topping gives the bread its classic donut-like finish, making it even more irresistible.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick cooking spray to ensure the bread doesn’t stick.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mixing the dry ingredients first ensures even distribution of the leavening agents and spices.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk the melted butter, milk, and eggs until well combined. Slowly pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the bread dense.
Step 4: Bake the Bread
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on it.
Step 5: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Topping
While the bread is baking, melt additional butter in a small bowl. In another bowl, mix granulated sugar and cinnamon. Once the bread is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes before brushing the top with melted butter and sprinkling the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly.
Tips for the Best Cinnamon Donut Bread
- Use fresh spices: The fresher your cinnamon and nutmeg, the more flavorful your bread will be.
- Do not overmix the batter: Overmixing can result in a dense loaf instead of a light and fluffy one.
- Check for doneness: Use a toothpick to ensure the bread is fully baked before removing it from the oven.
- Let the bread cool slightly before adding the topping: This helps the butter absorb into the bread while keeping the cinnamon sugar mixture from melting too much.
Variations and Add-Ins
Want to customize your Cinnamon Donut Bread? Here are some variations you can try:
- Add chocolate chips: Mix in a handful of chocolate chips for a sweet surprise in every bite.
- Use brown sugar: Swap half of the granulated sugar with brown sugar for a deeper caramel flavor.
- Make it gluten-free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Add nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts add a delightful crunch.
Storing and Freezing
If you have leftovers (which is rare because it’s so delicious), you can store Cinnamon Donut Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To keep it fresh longer, store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.
For freezing, wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, let it thaw at room temperature and warm it slightly in the microwave or oven for the best taste.
Perfect Pairings
Cinnamon Donut Bread pairs well with a variety of beverages and toppings. Here are some ideas:
- Coffee or tea: The warm spices complement the rich flavors of coffee or chai tea.
- Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream turns this bread into a decadent dessert.
- Caramel drizzle: Drizzle with caramel sauce for an extra layer of sweetness.
Final Thoughts
Cinnamon Donut Bread is an easy and delicious treat that brings the flavors of classic cinnamon donuts into a convenient loaf form. Whether you’re making it for breakfast, dessert, or a special occasion, this homemade bread is guaranteed to impress. With simple ingredients, easy preparation, and a mouthwatering cinnamon sugar topping, it’s no wonder this recipe has become a favorite among baking enthusiasts.
Try making this Cinnamon Donut Bread today and experience the perfect balance of sweetness and spice. Once you take your first bite, you’ll see why this bread is so addictive. Happy baking!