Cinnamon Donut Bread

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

This Cinnamon Donut Bread captures all the cozy flavor of a classic cinnamon sugar donut—in a soft, moist loaf that’s easy to slice and share. With a tender crumb, sweet cinnamon swirl topping, and rich buttermilk base, it’s the perfect quick bread for breakfast, brunch, or an anytime treat. No frying required—just mix, bake, and enjoy the irresistible cinnamon-sugar crust!

Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Donut Bread

• Tastes like a cinnamon sugar donut—in sliceable form

• Quick and easy—no mixer or frying required

• Uses pantry staples and buttermilk for extra moisture

• Delicious warm or toasted with butter

Ingredients Breakdown

For the Bread:

• All-purpose flour (2 cups) – The structural base of the loaf, creating a soft but sturdy crumb.

• Granulated sugar (1 cup) – Sweetens the bread and adds moisture.

• Baking powder (2 tsp) & Baking soda (1 tsp) – Help the loaf rise and create a light, airy texture.

• Ground cinnamon (1 tsp) – Adds warm, sweet spice throughout the bread.

• Salt (½ tsp) – Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.

• Eggs (2 large) – Bind the ingredients and contribute to structure and moisture.

• Buttermilk (1 cup) – Provides moisture and tang, helping to tenderize the crumb.

• Unsalted butter (½ cup, melted) – Adds rich flavor and softness.

• Vanilla extract (1 tsp) – Boosts the overall flavor with a sweet, aromatic note.

For the Topping:

• Granulated sugar (¼ cup) – Creates a sweet, crunchy top.

• Ground cinnamon (2 tsp) – Infuses the topping with a donut-like cinnamon kick.

Tips and Tricks

• Use room-temperature eggs and buttermilk for better mixing.

• Add ¼ cup of sour cream for even more moisture.

• For extra flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg or clove to the batter.

• Dust with extra cinnamon sugar right after baking for a crispier crust.

Variations and Customizations

• Cinnamon Swirl: Add a layer of cinnamon sugar in the middle of the batter for a swirl effect.

• Glazed Version: Drizzle with a simple vanilla glaze after baking.

• Add-ins: Stir in chopped nuts or mini chocolate chips for texture.

Pairing Suggestions

• Serve with a cup of coffee or chai latte

• Pair with Greek yogurt and fruit for a balanced breakfast

• Enjoy as a sweet afternoon snack or dessert

Storage Instructions

• Room Temp: Store tightly wrapped for up to 3 days.

• Refrigerator: Keeps for up to 1 week—reheat slices before serving.

• Freezer-Friendly: Wrap in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature.

Popular Questions

Can I use milk instead of buttermilk?
You can—but for best results, make a quick buttermilk substitute by adding 1 tbsp vinegar or lemon juice to 1 cup of milk.

Can I make this recipe into muffins?
Yes! Just divide the batter between muffin tins and bake at 350°F for 18–22 minutes.

Why did my bread sink?
Overmixing or underbaking can cause this. Be sure to mix gently and bake until fully set.

Cinnamon Donut Bread

---

• Author: easysweetmeal
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: 1 loaf (8–10 slices) 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Cinnamon Donut Bread – A soft, buttery loaf with a sweet cinnamon swirl and sugar-crusted top—just like your favorite donut! Perfect with coffee for breakfast or dessert

Advertisements

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 2 teaspoons baking powder

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 2 large eggs

• 1 cup buttermilk

• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Topping

• ¼ cup granulated sugar

• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

---

Instructions

1. Prep Your Pan

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

• Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.

2. Combine Dry Ingredients

• In a large bowl, whisk together:

  • Flour

  • Granulated sugar

  • Baking powder

  • Baking soda

  • Cinnamon

  • Salt

3. Mix Wet Ingredients

• In a separate bowl, whisk until smooth:

  • Eggs

  • Buttermilk

  • Melted butter

  • Vanilla extract

4. Bring It Together

• Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients.

• Stir just until combined—don’t overmix.

5. Prepare the Topping

• In a small bowl, mix the sugar and cinnamon for topping.

6. Assemble and Bake

• Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.

• Evenly sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the batter.

• Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

7. Cool and Serve

• Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes.

• Then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

• Slice and enjoy!

Notes

• For a true “donut shop” finish, brush the top with melted butter before adding the cinnamon sugar topping.

• This bread tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 55 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?