Hi there, fellow baking enthusiasts! I’m Emma, the heart behind GusRecipes, and today I’m thrilled to share something that combines two of life’s greatest pleasures: cinnamon donuts and freshly baked bread.
Remember that feeling of walking into a bakery and being enveloped by the warm, spicy scent of cinnamon? That’s exactly what these cinnamon donut bread recipes bring to your home! As someone who’s spent countless hours perfecting the balance between fluffy bread texture and that iconic donut flavor, I can promise you these recipes will transform your kitchen into the most popular spot in the house.
Let’s dive into these five incredible cinnamon donut bread variations that are simple enough for weekday baking but impressive enough for special occasions!
Why This Cinnamon Donut Bread Recipe Works
- Uses pantry staples you likely already have on hand
- Quick prep time with maximum flavor payoff
- Versatile enough for breakfast, dessert, or afternoon tea
- Creates that classic cinnamon donut taste without deep frying
- Perfect for meal prep actually tastes better on day two!
Choosing the Right Ingredients for Cinnamon Donut Bread
Best Flours for Cinnamon Donut Bread
For the perfect cinnamon donut bread, all-purpose flour creates a reliable base, but for extra tenderness, consider substituting up to 25% with cake flour. If you’re looking for a heartier texture with added nutritional benefits, white whole wheat flour works beautifully without overwhelming the delicate cinnamon flavor.
Sweeteners and Spices
The magic of cinnamon donut bread lies in its perfect balance of sweetness and spice. Light brown sugar adds moisture and a caramel undertone that complements the cinnamon beautifully. For the cinnamon itself, opt for Ceylon cinnamon for a more delicate, complex flavor profile rather than the stronger Cassia variety found in most supermarkets.
Dairy Components
Full-fat buttermilk creates the most tender, moist crumb in your cinnamon donut bread. If unavailable, regular milk with a tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar makes an excellent substitute. For a dairy-free version, unsweetened almond milk with a splash of apple cider vinegar works wonderfully.
Ingredients & Prep for Cinnamon Donut Bread
Bread Base Essentials:
- All-purpose flour
- Baking powder
- Baking soda
- Salt
- Eggs (room temperature)
- Granulated sugar
- Light brown sugar
- Unsalted butter (melted)
- Buttermilk
- Vanilla extract
Cinnamon Sugar Swirl:
- Ground cinnamon
- Light brown sugar
- Granulated sugar
- Unsalted butter (melted)
- Pinch of salt
Topping Options:
- Cinnamon sugar mixture
- Vanilla glaze
- Maple glaze
- Cream cheese frosting
- Streusel topping
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Cinnamon Donut Bread
Pre-Cooking Prep for Cinnamon Donut Bread
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate large bowl, beat eggs and sugars until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
- Add melted butter, buttermilk, and vanilla to the egg mixture, stirring until combined.
- Fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture just until incorporated – don’t overmix!
Baking Method for Cinnamon Donut Bread
- Pour half of the batter into your prepared loaf pan.
- Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the batter.
- Add the remaining batter, spreading gently to cover the cinnamon layer.
- Use a knife to create a gentle swirl pattern through the batter.
- Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Doneness Check for Cinnamon Donut Bread
The bread should be golden brown on top and slightly pulling away from the sides of the pan. Internal temperature should reach about 200°F (93°C) when tested with an instant-read thermometer.
Finishing Your Cinnamon Donut Bread
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 15 minutes.
- For the authentic donut experience, brush the top with melted butter while still warm.
- Sprinkle generously with cinnamon sugar mixture or add your preferred topping.
- Cool completely on a wire rack before slicing to prevent crumbling.
Pro Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Donut Bread
Avoiding Dry Cinnamon Donut Bread
- Measure flour by spooning it into measuring cups rather than scooping directly
- Don’t overmix the batter stop as soon as the dry ingredients are incorporated
- Check for doneness early and often, as overbaking is the main culprit for dryness
- Store with a slice of bread in the container to maintain moisture if keeping for several days
Tool Recommendations for Cinnamon Donut Bread
- Light-colored loaf pan for even baking without over-browning the sides
- Parchment paper with overhanging edges for easy removal
- Stand mixer or hand mixer for proper ingredient incorporation
- Instant-read thermometer for perfect doneness
Storage & Freezing Cinnamon Donut Bread
- Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days
- Freeze sliced bread with parchment between pieces for up to 3 months
- Thaw slices at room temperature or toast gently for a fresh-baked taste
Looking for more baking inspiration? Check out my Pinterest board for dozens of sweet and savory bread recipes that will elevate your home baking game! Follow GusRecipes on Pinterest for weekly baking ideas and seasonal favorites.
Flavor Variations for Cinnamon Donut Bread
Apple Cinnamon Donut Bread
Add 1 cup of finely diced apples tossed in cinnamon and a tablespoon of flour to the batter. The moisture from the apples creates pockets of tender fruit throughout the bread, mimicking apple cider donuts.
Chocolate Cinnamon Donut Bread
Incorporate 1/3 cup of cocoa powder into the dry ingredients and add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the batter. The combination of chocolate and cinnamon creates a Mexican hot chocolate-inspired flavor profile.
Pumpkin Cinnamon Donut Bread
Replace half the buttermilk with 3/4 cup pumpkin puree and add 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice to the batter. This autumnal variation brings the classic fall donut flavor into bread form.
| Variation | Key Ingredients | Baking Time Adjustment | Best Topping |
|---|---|---|---|
| Classic | Cinnamon, vanilla | Standard 50 min | Cinnamon sugar |
| Apple | Diced apples, extra cinnamon | +5 minutes | Caramel drizzle |
| Chocolate | Cocoa powder, chocolate chips | -5 minutes | Vanilla glaze |
| Pumpkin | Pumpkin puree, pumpkin spice | +10 minutes | Maple glaze |
| Citrus | Orange zest, cardamom | Standard 50 min | Orange glaze |
Serving Suggestions for Cinnamon Donut Bread
- Serve warm slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert
- Pair with fresh berries and whipped cream for a breakfast-inspired dessert
- Toast slices lightly and spread with cream cheese for a richer breakfast option
- Serve alongside hot coffee, chai tea, or hot chocolate for the perfect afternoon treat
- Use day-old bread for an exceptional French toast base
FAQs About Cinnamon Donut Bread
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! This cinnamon donut bread actually develops more flavor overnight. Make it the day before, cool completely, and store in an airtight container.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
Try substituting half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat pastry flour, reduce the sugar by 25%, and use Greek yogurt instead of buttermilk for added protein.
Why did my cinnamon sugar sink to the bottom of the bread?
If your cinnamon sugar layer sinks, try mixing it with a teaspoon of flour before sprinkling it on the batter. Also, make sure your batter isn’t too thin.
Can I make this recipe into muffins instead of a loaf?
Yes! The batter works beautifully in muffin tins. Fill each cup 2/3 full and reduce baking time to about 18-22 minutes, checking with a toothpick for doneness.
How do I get that authentic donut flavor?
The key is in the finishing touch brushing the warm bread with melted butter and immediately coating with cinnamon sugar creates that distinctive donut-like exterior.
Conclusion
There you have it five incredible cinnamon donut bread recipes that bring together the best of two beloved baked goods! From the classic cinnamon version to creative variations like chocolate and pumpkin, these recipes are sure to become family favorites.
The beauty of cinnamon donut bread is how it transforms simple ingredients into something truly special, perfect for everything from casual breakfasts to impressive brunch centerpieces.
I’d love to hear which variation becomes your favorite! Don’t forget to tag @GusRecipes on social media when you share your baking success joining thousands of home bakers who’ve already fallen in love with this irresistible treat. Happy baking, friends!
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Cinnamon Donut Bread: 5 Mind-Blowing Recipes to Try Now!
- Total Time: 1 hr 5 mins
- Yield: 1 loaf (10 slices) 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Cinnamon Donut Bread has all the flavor of a classic cinnamon sugar donut soft, buttery, and perfectly spiced baked into a moist loaf that’s easy to make and impossible to resist.
Ingredients
**For the Bread:**
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 eggs
1 cup buttermilk (or 1 cup milk + 1 tbsp vinegar)
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
**For the Topping:**
2 tablespoons melted butter
1/3 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add eggs one at a time, mixing until smooth.
4. Stir in buttermilk until combined.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
6. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
7. Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
8. Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
9. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
10. While warm, brush the top with melted butter and sprinkle generously with cinnamon sugar.
11. Let cool completely before slicing.
Notes
Substitute half the flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier loaf.
Add a swirl of cinnamon sugar through the batter for extra flavor.
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 5.
Warm slices in the microwave for 10 seconds for that fresh donut taste.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 50 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: cinnamon donut bread, cinnamon sugar loaf, baked donut bread, easy quick bread, cinnamon dessert