Cinnamon Donut Bread: A Warm, Sweet Treat for Any Time of Day
If you’re craving the cozy flavor of cinnamon sugar donuts but want something easier to make at home, this Cinnamon Donut Bread is your answer. It’s soft, moist, full of warm spices, and topped with a sweet cinnamon-sugar crust that makes every bite irresistible. Perfect for breakfast, a mid-day snack, or dessert!
What Is Cinnamon Donut Bread?
Cinnamon Donut Bread is a quick bread that tastes just like your favorite old-fashioned cinnamon sugar donuts—only it’s baked in a loaf pan instead of fried. It’s made with simple pantry ingredients, doesn’t require yeast or kneading, and comes together in under 15 minutes before it goes into the oven. It’s perfect for beginner bakers or anyone looking for an easy, crowd-pleasing recipe.
Ingredients
For the Bread:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
For the Topping:
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a standard 8×4-inch loaf pan with butter or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs until foamy. Add in the milk, melted butter, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using). Stir until well combined.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir gently with a spatula until just combined—don’t overmix, or your bread may turn out dense.
Step 5: Pour and Level
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
Step 6: Add the Topping
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon for the topping. Sprinkle it evenly over the batter.
Step 7: Bake
Place the loaf in the center of your preheated oven and bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Check around the 50-minute mark to avoid overbaking.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, slice and serve!
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with a pat of butter or drizzle with a simple glaze.
- Pair with coffee, chai, or a glass of cold milk.
- Great addition to brunch spreads or holiday breakfast tables.
Storage and Freezing Tips
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave.
Baking Tips for the Best Cinnamon Donut Bread
- Use room temperature eggs and milk for better mixing.
- Don’t skip the topping—it gives the loaf that signature “donut” taste and texture.
- To make it extra indulgent, brush the top of the loaf with melted butter after baking and before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No yeast or rising time needed
- Tastes like a cinnamon sugar donut
- Perfect for cozy mornings or gifting
- Easy to make in one bowl
Try this Cinnamon Donut Bread once, and it might just become a permanent favorite in your baking rotation. Moist, flavorful, and beautifully spiced—it’s everything you love about donuts, without the mess of frying. Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie