Name: Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread: Your New Favorite Indulgence
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 70 min
Ingredients: 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Replace with up to 25% whole wheat for a hearty twist.); 1 cup Granulated Sugar (Adds sweetness to the dough.); 2 tablespoons Baking Powder (Ensures the bread rises beautifully.); 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt (Balances sweetness and enhances flavors.); 1 cup Whole Milk (Dairy-free options available.); 1 large Egg (Room temperature eggs mix better.); 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (Infuses rich buttery goodness.); 2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract (Brings warmth and sweetness.); 1/2 cup Melted Unsalted Butter (Helps the sugar mixture stick.); 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar (Provides a delightful crunch.); 2 teaspoons Ground Cinnamon (Delivers iconic flavor.); 1/4 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg (Enhances the cinnamon.)

“Have you ever found yourself craving the cozy warmth of freshly baked treats but want a simple, no-fuss recipe? That’s where my Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread swoops in like a kitchen superhero! This delightful creation combines the soft, fluffy texture of a homemade loaf with the sweet, comforting flavor of your favorite donuts, all without the hassle. Perfect for a leisurely brunch or an afternoon sweet pick-me-up, this recipe comes together in no time, making it a fantastic choice for both seasoned bakers and beginners alike. Plus, it’s a delightful crowd-pleaser that fills your home with an irresistible aroma. Are you ready to dive into this sugary adventure?”

Why is this Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread special?

Irresistible aroma: As it bakes, your kitchen will fill with a delightful scent that invites everyone to gather round.
Simplicity: This recipe requires minimal ingredients and effort, making it perfect for busy home cooks or beginners.
Versatile enjoyment: Enjoy it warm, paired with coffee, or even drizzled with icing for an extra indulgent treat.
Unique texture: The soft and fluffy interior contrasts beautifully with the crunchy, spiced sugar topping.
Perfect for sharing: This is a crowd-pleaser that’s ideal for brunch gatherings or cozy family afternoons. Try it alongside some Cinnamon Roll Sugar for a delightful spread!

Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread Ingredients

• Everything you need for baking bliss!

For the Dough
All-Purpose Flour – Provides a tender texture; replace with up to 25% whole wheat for a hearty twist.
Granulated Sugar – Adds the perfect sweetness to the dough.
Baking Powder – Ensures your bread rises beautifully for that fluffy texture.
Kosher Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
Whole Milk – Keeps the bread moist; almond or oat milk works for a dairy-free option.
Large Egg – Acts as a binder; room temperature eggs mix better for a smooth batter.
Unsalted Butter – Infuses rich buttery goodness into your dough.
Vanilla Extract – Brings warmth and sweetness that complements the other flavors.
For the Coating
Melted Unsalted Butter – Helps the sugar mixture stick for a mouthwatering crust.
Granulated Sugar – Provides a delightful crunch on top of the bread.
Ground Cinnamon – The star of our Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread, delivering that iconic flavor.
Ground Nutmeg – Enhances the cinnamon and adds depth to the taste.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure the perfect baking temperature. While that’s warming up, grease your preferred baking pan, such as a loaf pan, with unsalted butter or non-stick spray. This will help your Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread slide right out once it’s baked, giving a beautiful presentation.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and kosher salt. Whisk these ingredients together until they’re well blended, creating a uniform dry mixture. This step is essential for your Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread to rise evenly and maintain a light texture, so ensure there are no flour pockets left.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, mix together the whole milk, large egg (preferably at room temperature), melted unsalted butter, and vanilla extract. Use a whisk or fork to blend until smooth. Once you achieve a homogenous mixture, gradually pour it into the dry ingredients, folding gently until it’s just combined. Overmixing can toughen the bread, so be careful to keep it tender.

Step 4: Transfer Batter to Pan
Pour the thick batter into your prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top evenly, which helps ensure an even bake. The batter should fill the pan nicely, with no large air pockets. This step sets the stage for a fluffy, well-risen Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread that will become your new favorite indulgence.

Step 5: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Coating
In a separate bowl, mix the melted unsalted butter, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg until well combined. This aromatic mixture will create a delightful topping for your bread. Evenly sprinkle this spiced sugar coating over the batter, allowing for a generous coverage that promises an irresistible crunch after baking.

Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
Place your pan into the preheated oven and bake the Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread for 40-45 minutes. Keep a close eye on it during the last few minutes—the bread should be golden brown on top, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean. This indicates that your bread is perfectly baked and ready to be cooled.

Step 7: Cool Before Serving
Once baked, remove the Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 5-10 minutes. This brief cooling period helps the bread settle and makes it easier to lift out without falling apart. Afterward, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing into soft, fluffy pieces.

Storage Tips for Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Fridge: If you want it to last a bit longer, refrigerate for up to 5 days, but be aware it may dry out slightly; wrap it in plastic wrap to help retain moisture.

Freezer: For longer storage, slice the Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread and wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag; it can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To enjoy the bread warm, simply toast the slices in a toaster or oven until heated through, allowing that delicious aroma to fill your kitchen once again.

Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread Variations

Feel free to get creative and personalize your Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread to match your taste!

Dairy-Free: Swap whole milk for almond milk or oat milk for a delicious dairy-free option. It will still stay moist and flavorful.
Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a delightful crunch and enhanced flavor. The nutty texture perfectly complements the sweet bread.
Chocolate Lover: Fold in chocolate chips into the dough for a rich, indulgent twist. The melty chocolate creates a heavenly contrast with the cinnamon sugar topping.
Spice It Up: Include a hint of ginger or cardamom to the sugar coating for a unique flavor boost. Customizing the spice blend can make each loaf feel new!
Fruity Surprise: Toss in some diced apples or ripe bananas for a fruity addition that brings natural sweetness and moisture. It adds another layer of comfort reminiscent of cozy desserts.
Iced Version: Drizzle a simple vanilla icing on top once cooled for an extra sweet touch. This icing elevates the bread to a whole new level of indulgence!
Cinnamon Roll Fusion: Combine this recipe with your favorite Cinnamon Roll Sugar for a layered sweet treat. The flavors of both desserts together create a brilliant experience.
Southern Comfort: Try replacing the granulated sugar in the topping with brown sugar for a deeper, caramel-like flavor that beautifully contrasts with the spices.

Let your imagination run wild as you explore these variations, turning each bake into a delightful new adventure!

Make Ahead Options

These Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread delights are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can mix the dry ingredients (flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt) up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. The wet ingredients can be combined and refrigerated for up to 3 days; just remember to bring them to room temperature before mixing with the dry ingredients. When you’re ready to bake, simply follow the final steps: combine the dry and wet mixtures, transfer to the pan, and top with the spiced sugar coating. This way, you can enjoy the warm, enticing aroma of fresh-baked bread with minimal effort on busy mornings!

What to Serve with Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread

Transform your Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread into a delightful spread that’s perfect for brunch or cozy gatherings.

Fresh Berries: Lightly sweetened strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries add a burst of freshness and color that beautifully complements the rich sweetness of the bread.
Cream Cheese Frosting: A dollop of tangy cream cheese frosting offers a creamy contrast, elevating the indulgence to new heights.
Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer with Greek yogurt and granola for a balanced brunch option that satisfies both sweet and savory cravings.
Spiced Coffee: A warm cup of spiced coffee, infused with hints of cinnamon, ties in all the flavors, creating a comforting experience at any time of the day.
Cinnamon Roll Casserole: Serve with a cinnamon roll casserole as part of a decadent brunch spread; the flavors will harmonize beautifully while satisfying any sweet tooth.
Vanilla Ice Cream: For a dessert treat, a scoop of vanilla ice cream on warm bread creates a heavenly melty experience.
Honey Butter: Whipped honey butter transforms each slice into a sweet, buttery indulgence, enhancing the overall flavor with its creamy texture.
Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of caramel sauce across the top adds a rich, sweet note that pairs wonderfully with the cinnamon flavors, enticing guests to indulge even more.

Expert Tips for Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread

Gentle Mixing: Always mix the batter until just combined to avoid overmixing; this ensures your Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread remains soft and tender.
Even Coating: For the best flavor, be sure to evenly sprinkle the spiced sugar coating over the batter; this creates a delightful crispy top that everyone will love.
Cooling Method: Allow the bread to cool for a few minutes in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack. This prevents any sogginess from steam buildup.
Slice Strategically: If you’re serving guests, use a sharp bread knife to slice; this helps maintain the beautiful, fluffy texture without squishing the bread.
Optional Icing: For an extra touch of sweetness, consider drizzling a simple icing over the warm bread for a lovely presentation and added flavor.

Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread Recipe FAQs

What type of flour should I use for Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread?
I recommend using all-purpose flour for the best texture, but if you’re looking for a healthier twist, you can substitute up to 25% with whole wheat flour. Just keep in mind that it will change the texture slightly, providing a heartier loaf.

Can I freeze Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread?
Absolutely! To freeze, slice the bread and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped slices in a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn. Your delicious Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months! To reheat, simply toast the slices in a toaster or oven until warmed through.

How should I store Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread to keep it fresh?
For optimal freshness, store the Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it for up to 5 days, but it may dry out a bit, so wrapping it tightly is recommended.

What should I do if my bread is too dry?
If you find your Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread is on the dry side, there are a couple of fixes! First, make sure to measure your flour correctly, without packing it down. Second, try adding slightly more liquid, like a splash more of milk, next time around to ensure that soft, fluffy texture. Finally, serve it warm with a drizzle of icing or some butter to enhance moisture.

Can I use non-dairy milk in this recipe?
Very much so! If you’re avoiding dairy, almond milk, oat milk, or any non-dairy milk can be excellent substitutes for whole milk in this recipe. They keep the bread moist while perfectly blending with the other flavors, allowing everyone to enjoy this sweet delight!

Are there any allergy considerations for this recipe?
If you have allergies, be aware that this recipe contains gluten and dairy (unless you opt for dairy-free alternatives). Always double-check labels and look for specific allergen-free ingredients if needed. Also, for those baking for pets, avoid sharing the bread as ingredients like chocolate or certain spices can be harmful to them.