This incredible Cinnamon Donut Bread recipe is your golden ticket to baking bliss. I promise you, it’s remarkably simple to whip up.
There’s no yeast, no complex kneading, and minimal steps involved; it’s essentially a quick bread that delivers exponentially on flavor. Its rich taste and crowd-pleasing appeal make it perfect for lazy weekend mornings, an afternoon pick-me-up, or even a simple dessert. Why just dream about it? Gather your pantry staples and try it tonight—you won’t believe how simple achieving this level of delicious Cinnamon Donut Bread truly is!
Ingredients:
Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful treat. Remember, baking is a science, so accurate measurements are key!
- 1 ½ cups All-Purpose Flour: This forms the structure of our Cinnamon Donut Bread. Tip: Spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a straight edge; don’t scoop directly from the bag, as this compacts the flour and can lead to dry bread.
- ¾ cup Granulated Sugar: For sweetness in the bread batter itself.
- 1 ½ teaspoons Baking Powder: The leavening agent that gives our bread its lovely rise and light texture. Make sure it’s not expired for best results!
- ½ teaspoon Salt: Crucial for balancing the sweetness and enhancing the cinnamon and overall flavor profile. Universal Tip: Salt pasta water like the ocean for flavor, and don’t skip it in baking either – it makes sweet things taste better!
- 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon: The star spice for that signature donut flavor within the bread. You can learn more about this versatile spice here: All About Cinnamon | McCormick.
- ¼ teaspoon Ground Nutmeg: Adds warmth and that authentic donut shop aroma. Freshly grated is wonderful if you have it.
- ½ cup Milk: Provides moisture and richness. Whole milk is great, but 2% or even almond/soy milk can work (texture may vary slightly).
- ¼ cup Vegetable Oil (or Melted Butter): Ensures a moist and tender crumb. Melted butter adds a richer flavor, while oil guarantees moistness.
- 1 large Egg: Binds the ingredients, adds richness, and contributes to the structure. Have it at room temperature if possible.
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract: Enhances sweetness and adds a lovely aromatic depth.
For the Cinnamon Sugar Topping:
- ¼ cup Unsalted Butter, melted: This is the delicious “glue” that helps the cinnamon sugar stick perfectly.
- ⅓ cup Granulated Sugar: Creates that irresistible crunchy coating.
- 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon: More cinnamon goodness for the essential topping flavor!
Universal Tip: Always double-check your ingredient measurements before starting; accuracy is key in baking!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to bake your own Cinnamon Donut Bread:
- Prepare Your Oven and Pan: First things first, let’s get that oven hot! Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Position a rack in the center. Why? An accurately preheated oven ensures the baking powder reacts immediately upon hitting the heat, creating steam and giving your Cinnamon Donut Bread the lift it needs for a light, airy texture right from the start. Proper heat circulation from the center rack promotes even baking. Now, prepare your vessel. Generously grease and flour a standard 9×5 inch loaf pan.
Alternatively, for super easy removal, line the pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang on the two longer sides to act as handles. Why? Thorough greasing or using parchment paper prevents the dreaded scenario where your beautiful bread sticks to the pan, potentially tearing that lovely crust when you try to get it out. Set this prepared pan aside within easy reach.
- Whisk the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl – give yourself plenty of space to work – combine the all-purpose flour, ¾ cup granulated sugar (for the batter), baking powder, salt, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for the batter), and the ground nutmeg. Whisk these ingredients together thoroughly for about 30 seconds. Why? This step is more important than it looks! Whisking aerates the flour slightly and, more crucially, evenly distributes the baking powder, salt, and spices throughout the flour mixture. This prevents dense spots, pockets of unincorporated leavener (which can taste bitter), or areas lacking that essential cinnamon flavor in your finished Cinnamon Donut Bread. Even distribution equals consistent texture and taste.
- Combine the Wet Ingredients: Grab a separate, medium-sized bowl. Into this bowl, pour the milk, vegetable oil (or cooled melted butter), the large egg, and the vanilla extract. Whisk these wet ingredients together until they are fully combined and homogenous. The egg should be completely broken up and incorporated. Why? Mixing the wet ingredients separately ensures everything is well blended before introducing them to the dry ingredients. This helps prevent overmixing the final batter, as you won’t need to work it as hard to get everything incorporated later on. It also ensures the fat and liquid are emulsified properly, contributing to a tender crumb.
- Combine Wet and Dry – Gently!: Now, pour the whisked wet ingredients from the medium bowl directly into the large bowl containing the whisked dry ingredients. Using a rubber spatula or a wooden spoon, gently fold and stir the ingredients together. Mix only until the flour streaks just disappear. It’s perfectly okay – even desirable – to have some small lumps remaining in the batter. Do not beat or mix vigorously. Why? This is the most critical step for achieving a tender quick bread like this Cinnamon Donut Bread. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, which results in a tough, chewy, or rubbery texture instead of the soft, cake-like crumb we want. Think muffin method: minimal mixing is key. Lumps are fine; they’ll bake out.
- Transfer Batter and Bake: Carefully scrape the thick batter from the mixing bowl into your prepared 9×5 inch loaf pan. Use your spatula to spread the batter evenly across the pan, smoothing the top slightly. Place the loaf pan onto the center rack of your preheated 350°F (175°C) oven. Bake for 45 to 55 minutes. The baking time can vary slightly depending on your specific oven and the type of loaf pan you use (metal pans usually bake faster than glass or ceramic). Start checking for doneness around the 45-minute mark.
The Cinnamon Donut Bread is ready when a wooden skewer or long toothpick inserted into the absolute center of the loaf comes out clean, or with just a few moist crumbs attached (no wet, sticky batter). The top should be golden brown and feel slightly firm to the touch. Why? The toothpick test is the gold standard for checking if quick breads are fully cooked through the center. An underbaked center will be dense and gummy. If you notice the top is browning too quickly before the center is done, you can loosely tent the loaf pan with a piece of aluminum foil for the final 10-15 minutes of baking to prevent over-browning while allowing the inside to finish cooking.
- Initial Cooling in Pan: Once the toothpick test confirms doneness, carefully remove the loaf pan from the hot oven using oven mitts. Place the entire pan directly onto a wire cooling rack. Let the Cinnamon Donut Bread cool inside the pan on the rack for 10 to 15 minutes. Why? This brief cooling period allows the bread’s structure to set slightly. Trying to remove a very hot quick bread from the pan immediately increases the risk of it breaking or crumbling. This resting time makes it sturdier and easier to handle for the next step.
- Prepare the Topping Components: While the bread enjoys its initial cool-down in the pan, get your topping station ready. You’ll need two small, shallow bowls. In the first bowl, melt the ¼ cup of unsalted butter. You can do this easily in the microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring in between, until just melted, or gently melt it in a small saucepan over low heat. In the second shallow bowl, combine the ⅓ cup of granulated sugar and the remaining 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Whisk them together until the cinnamon is evenly distributed throughout the sugar. Place both bowls near your wire cooling rack where the bread is.
- Apply the Buttery Cinnamon Sugar Topping: After the 10-15 minute cooling time in the pan, it’s time for the magic! If you used parchment paper, carefully lift the bread out of the pan using the overhangs and place it directly on the wire rack. If you greased and floured, you may need to run a thin knife or offset spatula around the edges first, then carefully invert the loaf onto the rack (place the rack on top, flip both over, lift off the pan) and then gently flip it back upright. While the bread is still quite warm (but not piping hot), take a pastry brush and generously brush the melted butter all over the top and sides of the loaf. Don’t be shy! Why? Applying the butter while the bread is warm helps it absorb slightly and creates the perfect tacky surface for the cinnamon sugar to cling to. Immediately after brushing with butter, generously sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture all over the buttered surfaces.
You can also carefully roll the top and sides in the shallow dish of cinnamon sugar if you prefer, gently pressing to make sure it adheres well. Ensure you get a nice, even, thick coating – this is what gives it that signature “donut” crunch and flavor.
- Cool Completely Before Slicing: Now comes the hardest part: waiting! Allow the fully topped Cinnamon Donut Bread to cool completely on the wire rack before attempting to slice and serve it. This might take at least an hour, possibly longer depending on your kitchen’s temperature. Why? Quick breads need to cool fully for their internal structure and crumb to set properly. Slicing into it while it’s still warm, though tempting, will likely result in a gummy texture and messy, crumbly slices. Patience ensures you get clean cuts and the best possible texture. For more insights into the science and history of bread, the Bread | Wikipedia page offers a wealth of information. Enjoy your perfectly baked Cinnamon Donut Bread!
Serving Ideas
This delightful Cinnamon Donut Bread is wonderfully versatile when it comes to serving. Honestly, a simple, thick slice enjoyed slightly warm, perhaps alongside your morning coffee or a comforting cup of tea, is perfection in itself. It captures that cozy breakfast feeling beautifully. If you’re aiming for a more indulgent dessert experience, consider gently warming a slice and pairing it with a generous scoop of creamy vanilla bean ice cream. A drizzle of warm caramel or even chocolate sauce over the top would elevate it further, creating a fantastic contrast of temperatures and textures.
For brunch gatherings, slices of Cinnamon Donut Bread look lovely arranged on a platter, perhaps overlapping slightly, with an extra dusting of cinnamon or powdered sugar for visual appeal. You could also serve it alongside a vibrant fresh fruit salad or some Greek yogurt with berries for a more balanced offering. Plating individual slices? A small dollop of whipped cream or even a tangy cream cheese frosting spread thinly on top enhances the ‘donut’ vibe. Garnishing with a single raspberry or a mint sprig adds a touch of elegance. If easy, comforting bakes are your jam, you might also fall in love with our popular Banana Bread Recipe.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions to help you troubleshoot your Cinnamon Donut Bread baking experience:
Q1: My Cinnamon Donut Bread seems dense. What did I do wrong?
Denseness in quick breads like this Cinnamon Donut Bread usually points to one of a few culprits. The most common is overmixing the batter; remember to mix just until the dry ingredients are incorporated – lumps are okay! Another possibility is inaccurate flour measurement. Make sure you’re spooning the flour into the measuring cup and leveling it, rather than scooping directly from the bag, which compacts the flour. Lastly, ensure your baking powder is fresh and active. Expired leavening won’t provide the necessary lift.
Q2: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you likely can adapt this Cinnamon Donut Bread recipe for gluten-free diets. Use a good quality measure-for-measure gluten-free flour blend that contains xanthan gum. The texture might be slightly different from the original, potentially a bit denser or crumblier, but it should still be delicious. Baking times might also vary slightly, so keep an eye on it and use the toothpick test.
Q3: How long does this Cinnamon Donut Bread stay fresh?
When stored properly, your Cinnamon Donut Bread should stay fresh and tasty for about 3 to 4 days at room temperature. The key is to let it cool completely first, then store it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Keep in mind the cinnamon-sugar topping will gradually soften as it absorbs moisture from the bread, but the flavor will remain great. Avoid refrigeration, as it tends to dry out quick breads faster.
Q4: Can I use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar in the batter or topping?
You could substitute brown sugar for the granulated sugar in the bread batter. This will add a deeper, more molasses-like flavor and potentially make the bread slightly moister due to the molasses content in brown sugar. For the topping, using brown sugar might result in a slightly softer, less crisp crust compared to granulated sugar, but it would still be flavorful. Packing the brown sugar when measuring for the batter is usually recommended.
Q5: What are some fun variations for this Cinnamon Donut Bread?
This recipe is a great base for experimentation! Try folding in ½ cup of chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for added texture. Mini chocolate chips (about ½ cup) would also be a delicious addition. For a fruity twist, consider adding ½ cup of finely diced apples tossed with a little extra cinnamon. You could also add a simple powdered sugar glaze (powdered sugar mixed with a little milk or lemon juice) drizzled over the top once cooled for extra sweetness.
Q6: My topping didn’t stick well. Any tips?
For the best adhesion, make sure you brush the bread with the melted butter while the bread is still noticeably warm (after the 10-15 min cooling in the pan). This warmth helps the butter create a slightly sticky surface. Apply the cinnamon-sugar mixture immediately after brushing with butter, pressing it gently onto the surfaces. Ensure you brush the sides as well as the top! If the bread cools too much before applying the butter, the topping won’t stick as effectively.
Conclusion
And there you have it – a wonderfully simple recipe for Cinnamon Donut Bread that delivers maximum cozy flavor with minimal effort. It’s the perfect solution when you’re craving those warm, sweet spices and comforting textures of a donut but prefer the ease of a quick bread. The combination of the soft, tender crumb and that signature crunchy cinnamon-sugar crust makes every bite a pure delight. I find it’s one of those recipes you’ll come back to again and again, perfect for sharing or savoring solo.
Remember that gentle mixing and letting it cool completely are your keys to success! If you’re exploring more unique bread-based meals, don’t miss our show-stopping Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Garlic Bread Subs.
Pro Tips: For extra flavor depth, try browning the butter you use for the batter (let it cool slightly before using) – it adds a nutty complexity. Don’t skip the nutmeg; it really rounds out the ‘donut’ flavor profile alongside the cinnamon.
Variations on this Cinnamon Donut Bread could include adding a swirl of cream cheese filling through the center before baking or incorporating cardamom into the spice mix for an aromatic twist. Enjoy baking!
PrintEasy Cinnamon Donut Bread Recipe – Quick & Delicious Treat!
This Cinnamon Donut Bread delivers everything you love about a classic cinnamon-sugar donut—only easier! Soft, tender, warmly spiced, and finished with a buttery cinnamon-sugar crust, it’s the perfect cozy bake for any occasion. Quick, simple, and incredibly delicious!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45-55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (8-10 slices) 1x
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups All-Purpose Flour
- ¾ cup Granulated Sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons Baking Powder
- ½ teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon Ground Nutmeg
- ½ cup Milk
- ¼ cup Vegetable Oil or Melted Butter
- 1 large Egg
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
- For the Topping:
- ¼ cup Unsalted Butter, melted
- ⅓ cup Granulated Sugar
- 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon
Instructions
- Prepare Oven and Pan: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line with parchment paper.
- Whisk Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk flour, ¾ cup sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk milk, oil (or melted butter), egg, and vanilla until well combined.
- Combine: Pour wet ingredients into dry and stir gently just until combined. Do not overmix.
- Transfer and Bake: Scrape batter into prepared pan and bake for 45-55 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Initial Cooling: Cool in pan on wire rack for 10-15 minutes.
- Prepare Topping: Melt butter. In a separate shallow bowl, mix ⅓ cup sugar and 1 teaspoon cinnamon.
- Apply Topping: Remove bread from pan. Brush warm bread with melted butter and coat generously with cinnamon-sugar mixture on top and sides.
- Cool Completely: Allow bread to cool fully on rack before slicing and serving.
Notes
For a flavor boost, brown the butter used in the batter before cooling and using. A swirl of cream cheese filling or a touch of cardamom in the batter makes for delicious variations!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Keywords: cinnamon donut bread, cinnamon quick bread, donut bread recipe, easy cinnamon loaf