Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread
Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread is a delightful treat that captures the essence of your favorite sugar donuts in a cozy loaf. If you’re looking for something special to brighten your mornings or impress your friends at brunch, this is it! The sweet aroma wafting through your kitchen will bring everyone running, eager to dive into a slice of this sugary goodness. The best part? It’s so easy to whip up, making it perfect for those busy weeknights or family gatherings when you want to share something sweet without the fuss.
Whether you’re enjoying it fresh out of the oven or saving some for later, each bite of this Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread will have you smiling. It’s not just a recipe; it’s an experience filled with warmth and love. Let’s get baking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can create this delicious bread without any hassle.
- Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will adore the sweet flavor and soft texture.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s breakfast, brunch, or dessert, this bread fits right in.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Bake it in advance and enjoy it throughout the week – it stays fresh and tasty!
- Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and sugar creates an irresistible flavor profile.

Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. They come together beautifully to create a moist and flavorful bread that you won’t be able to resist!
For the Bread
- 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups (300 g) granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 ¼ cups (306 g) whole milk
- 1 large egg (room temperature)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
For the Topping
- ¼ cup (½ stick / 57 g) unsalted butter (melted)
- ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
Variations
This Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to experiment with different flavors and ingredients to make it your own.
- Add Nuts: Stir in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
- Incorporate Fruit: Toss in some blueberries or diced apples for a fruity twist.
- Spice It Up: Experiment with other spices like allspice or cardamom for a unique taste.
- Change the Milk: Use almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free version that still delivers great flavor!
How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F. This step is crucial because it ensures even cooking right from the start. Spray an 8 ½ x 4 ½-inch loaf pan with nonstick cooking spray so that your bread releases easily after baking.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients first helps to evenly distribute the leavening agent so that your bread rises perfectly.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla until well combined. This mixture adds moisture and flavor to your bread. Make sure everything is at room temperature for a smoother batter!
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Pour the milk mixture into the flour mixture and stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; this keeps your bread tender instead of tough. The batter should be slightly runny – that’s what we want!
Step 5: Pour Into Pan
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. This helps ensure even cooking throughout as it bakes.
Step 6: Bake
Bake for 60-70 minutes until golden brown on top. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with just a few crumbs clinging to it. This step is where all that deliciousness starts coming together!
Step 7: Cool Down
Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it onto parchment paper. This allows it to set without getting soggy.
Step 8: Brush with Butter
While still warm, gently brush melted butter over the entire surface of the bread for that extra richness. This step adds an irresistible buttery flavor while helping our topping stick beautifully!
Step 9: Prepare Topping Mixture
In a small bowl, mix together granulated sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This spiced sugar coating is what makes our bread reminiscent of those classic donuts we all love.
Step 10: Sprinkle That Goodness!
Evenly sprinkle your sugar mixture over the buttery surface of the bread. Turn the loaf as needed so every side gets its fair share of sweetness! Don’t worry if you have some leftover; you can save it for another time.
Now you’re ready to enjoy your homemade Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread! Savor every bite or share with loved ones – either way, it’s sure to bring smiles all around!
Pro Tips for Making Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread
Creating the perfect Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread can be a breeze with some simple tips to ensure your baking experience is successful and enjoyable.
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Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your egg and milk to room temperature helps them combine more easily with the other ingredients, resulting in a smoother batter and a better texture in the final product.
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Don’t overmix the batter: Gently folding the wet and dry ingredients together until just combined will keep your bread tender. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf instead of the light, fluffy texture you want.
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Check for doneness: Ovens can vary in temperature, so it’s important to start checking your bread at around 60 minutes. Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs for optimal doneness.
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Cool before topping: Allowing your bread to cool slightly before brushing with melted butter ensures that the topping adheres well. If you add it too soon, it may soak in rather than create that delightful sugary crust.
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Save leftover topping: If you have extra sugar and spice mixture after coating, don’t throw it away! You can sprinkle it on toast, pancakes, or even oatmeal for an extra touch of sweetness later.
How to Serve Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread
This delightful bread isn’t just about its delicious flavor; how you present it can elevate the entire experience! Here are some ideas on serving this sweet treat that will impress your family and friends.
Garnishes
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Powdered sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar over the top adds an elegant touch and enhances its sweetness without overpowering the cinnamon flavors.
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Fresh fruit: Slices of strawberries or blueberries not only add color but also provide a fresh contrast to the rich sweetness of the bread.
Side Dishes
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Greek yogurt: Creamy Greek yogurt pairs beautifully with this sweet bread. The tanginess complements the sweetness, balancing out flavors while adding protein.
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Fruit salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits will brighten up your plate and serve as a healthy counterpoint to the indulgent bread.
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Coffee or tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea is not only comforting but also makes for a perfect pairing with this sweet treat during breakfast or afternoon tea.
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Scrambled eggs: For a heartier breakfast option, serve alongside fluffy scrambled eggs. The savory notes of eggs provide a delightful balance against the sweet cinnamon flavors.
Now you’re all set to enjoy your homemade Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread! Whether you share it with loved ones or keep it all to yourself (no judgment here!), I hope it brings warmth and joy to your table. Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage
Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a sweet treat anytime without the fuss. You can easily make it ahead of time and store it for later enjoyment!
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the bread to cool completely before storing.
- Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Store at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, place it in an airtight container.
Freezing
- Slice the bread before freezing for easy access.
- Wrap each slice in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Label the bag with the date for reference.
Reheating
- Thaw slices at room temperature or in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds.
- For a warm, crispy edge, toast slices in a toaster oven or on a skillet for 2-3 minutes.
FAQs
Here are some common questions about making and enjoying Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread:
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread?
Yes! You can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. This will add a nuttier flavor and slightly denser texture. Just be aware that it may change the overall taste and moisture level.
How do I store leftover Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread?
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze individual slices for longer shelf life.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup. Just ensure that your baking powder is also gluten-free.
How long will Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread last?
When stored properly at room temperature, it will last about 3 days. If frozen, you can enjoy it for up to 3 months.
Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread?
Of course! Feel free to mix in your favorite nuts or chocolate chips into the batter before pouring it into the loaf pan. This adds extra texture and flavor!
Final Thoughts
I hope you find joy in making this delightful Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread! It’s not just a recipe; it’s a comforting treat that brings warmth and sweetness to your day. Whether you’re enjoying it fresh from the oven or savoring each slice over several days, this bread is sure to become a favorite in your home. Happy baking, and don’t forget to share your delicious results!
Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread
Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread is a delightful blend of sweet and spicy flavors that brings the comfort of your favorite sugar donuts into a cozy loaf. Perfect for any occasion, this easy-to-make treat will fill your home with an irresistible aroma, making it ideal for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. With its soft texture and sweet topping, this bread is sure to impress family and friends alike. Enjoy it fresh out of the oven or save some for later; each slice promises a smile with every bite.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 65 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 ¼ cups whole milk
- 1 large egg (room temperature)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup unsalted butter (melted) for topping
- ½ cup granulated sugar for topping
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon for topping
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg for topping
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease an 8½ x 4½-inch loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk together milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients until just mixed; pour into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 60-70 minutes until golden brown; check doneness with a toothpick.
- Cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before brushing with melted butter.
- Mix sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a bowl; sprinkle over the warm bread.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (70g)
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: <1g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
