Cinnamon Donut Bread

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this Cinnamon Donut Bread because it combines the comforting texture of homemade bread with the warm, sugary sweetness of cinnamon donuts. The cinnamon-sugar swirl and topping create the perfect blend of flavor, and the bread’s moist, tender crumb makes it irresistible. Plus, the recipe is easy to follow and doesn’t require any fancy ingredients, making it a perfect treat for any occasion!

Ingredients

For the Bread:

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 cup granulated sugar

1 teaspoon baking powder

½ teaspoon baking soda

¼ teaspoon salt

1 cup buttermilk

¼ cup unsalted butter, melted

2 large eggs

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

½ cup brown sugar

1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

For the Topping:

2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

¼ cup granulated sugar

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or cooking spray, or line it with parchment paper.

Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures that the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.

Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and fully combined.

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring gently with a spoon or spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to keep the bread light and fluffy.

Prepare the Cinnamon-Sugar Swirl: In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and ground cinnamon.

Layer the Batter and Cinnamon-Sugar: Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the batter. Then, pour in the remaining batter and sprinkle the rest of the cinnamon-sugar mixture on top. Use a knife to gently swirl the batter, creating a marbled effect throughout the loaf.

Bake the Bread: Place the loaf pan in the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the bread. If it comes out clean, the bread is done. If not, bake for a few more minutes.

Cool and Add Topping: Once the bread is done, allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, transfer the bread to a wire rack to cool completely.

Add the Cinnamon-Sugar Topping: While the bread is cooling, brush the top with the melted butter. In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle the mixture evenly over the top of the bread.

Slice and Serve: Once the topping has set, slice the bread into thick, generous pieces and serve. It’s perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes 1 loaf, which yields approximately 12 slices. The prep time is around 10 minutes, and the bake time is 50-60 minutes, bringing the total time to about 1 hour.

Variations

Nuts: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for extra texture and flavor.

Dried Fruit: Add raisins or dried cranberries to the batter for a fruity twist.

Vegan: To make this recipe vegan, substitute the eggs with flax eggs and use a plant-based butter and milk alternative.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Freezing: This bread freezes well. Wrap slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw at room temperature or heat slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.

Reheating: To warm up, heat slices in the oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?

Yes, if you don’t have buttermilk, you can substitute it with regular milk. To replicate the tangy flavor of buttermilk, add 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice to 1 cup of milk and let it sit for a few minutes before using.

Can I make this bread dairy-free?

Yes! Use plant-based milk like almond or oat milk, and replace the butter with a dairy-free alternative like coconut oil or dairy-free butter.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the bread?

Absolutely! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or even chocolate chips would make a great addition to the batter. Just fold them into the mixture before baking.

How do I know when the bread is done?

Check the bread by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, it’s done. If there’s still wet batter on the toothpick, let it bake for a few more minutes.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double the recipe to make two loaves. Just make sure to adjust the baking time, as larger quantities may need a little more time in the oven.

Conclusion

Cinnamon Donut Bread is a simple yet delicious treat that combines the cozy, cinnamon-sugar goodness of a donut with the soft texture of homemade bread. It’s perfect for breakfast, a mid-afternoon snack, or even dessert, and the marbled cinnamon-sugar swirl makes it as beautiful as it is tasty. Whether you’re baking it for a special occasion or just because, this bread is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen! Enjoy

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