Sweet Cinnamon Donut Bread

This cinnamon donut bread brings the joy of fresh donuts into a convenient loaf form. I discovered this recipe while searching for a way to satisfy my family's donut cravings without the hassle of deep frying. The aroma that fills the kitchen as it bakes will have everyone gathering around asking when it will be ready.

I first made this bread on a rainy Sunday morning when we couldn't make our usual donut shop run. It was such a hit that my family now prefers this homemade version to store-bought treats. The warming cinnamon aroma creates the coziest atmosphere in our home.

Ingredients

• All-purpose flour provides the perfect structure for this quick bread
• Granulated sugar balances the spice and creates that classic donut sweetness
• Baking powder ensures a proper rise for a light texture
• Ground cinnamon is the star flavor that gives this bread its donut shop appeal
• Large eggs at room temperature help bind everything together properly
• Whole milk adds richness and moisture that keeps the bread tender
• Melted butter provides that unmistakable buttery flavor that makes this bread special

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to exactly 350°F. This moderate temperature allows the bread to bake evenly without browning too quickly. Thoroughly grease your loaf pan, making sure to get into all corners to prevent sticking. A light dusting of flour after greasing provides extra insurance for a clean release.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and cinnamon until completely combined. Take your time here to break up any clumps in the flour or cinnamon. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agent and spice throughout your bread.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and cooled melted butter until the mixture is smooth and uniform. The butter must be cooled slightly to prevent cooking the eggs when they come into contact. Whisk vigorously to incorporate some air into the mixture.

Create Your Batter

Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, folding gently with a spatula. Mix only until just combined. Overmixing will develop too much gluten, resulting in a tough bread. Some small lumps are perfectly fine and will bake out. The batter should be thick but pourable.

Bake to Perfection

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, using a spatula to smooth the top. If desired, sprinkle additional cinnamon sugar on top for a beautiful crust. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, checking doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. It should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter.

Bookmark

My favorite part of this recipe is the versatility of the cinnamon flavor. I sometimes add a touch of nutmeg or cardamom to the mix for a more complex spice profile. My daughter loves helping sprinkle the cinnamon sugar topping before baking, claiming it makes the bread taste exactly like her favorite cinnamon sugar donuts from the local bakery.

Make It Your Own

This recipe welcomes customization based on your preferences. For a more indulgent treat, add a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk. Drizzle it over the cooled bread for that classic donut finish. You could also fold in diced apples or raisins for a fruity twist that pairs beautifully with the cinnamon.

Storage Tips

For the freshest experience, store your cinnamon donut bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. The flavor actually deepens overnight, making it even better the next day. For longer storage, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months and reheated in the microwave or toaster oven when needed.

Serving Suggestions

While delicious on its own, this bread reaches new heights when served warm with a pat of butter melting into each slice. For a decadent breakfast, use it as the base for French toast, or cube it for a unique bread pudding. It also pairs wonderfully with coffee or tea for an afternoon treat. I often serve it alongside fresh fruit for weekend brunch gatherings.

Recipe Q&A

→ Can I add a glaze to this cinnamon donut bread?

Absolutely! A simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk drizzled over the cooled bread adds a wonderful finishing touch. For extra flavor, try adding a drop of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon to your glaze.

→ How should I store this bread to keep it fresh?

Once completely cooled, store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

→ Can I use non-dairy milk instead of whole milk?

Yes, you can substitute almond, soy, or oat milk for the whole milk in this bread. The texture might be slightly different, but the flavor will still be delicious. Just make sure to use unsweetened versions to control the overall sweetness.

→ Why does my bread need to cool before slicing?

Allowing the bread to cool for at least 10-15 minutes helps it set properly. Cutting into hot bread can cause it to become gummy and compress the texture. For the best results, let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove to a wire rack to finish cooling.

→ Can I add nuts or other mix-ins to this bread?

Certainly! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or even raisins make excellent additions. Fold about 1/2 cup of your chosen mix-ins into the batter just before pouring it into the loaf pan. You could also add a streusel topping for extra texture and flavor.

→ How do I know when the bread is fully baked?

Insert a toothpick or cake tester into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs (not wet batter), the bread is done. The top should be golden brown and slightly springy when gently pressed.