The magic of Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread is that it tastes exactly like a classic bakery donut, soft, sweet, warmly spiced but comes together in a single loaf pan with almost no effort. I still remember the first time I baked it on a quiet Sunday morning: the kitchen filled with warm cinnamon aroma, and the loaf emerged with a crisp, sugary crust that crackled softly when sliced.
This recipe captures everything comforting about cinnamon donuts without frying, mess, or fuss. With simple pantry ingredients, clear visual cues (like suggested photo placements), and reliable measurements, this loaf delivers tender crumb, caramelized edges, and an irresistible cinnamon-sugar finish every time.
Table of Contents
Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread Recipe
Suggested Image Placement: “cinnamon sugar donut bread sliced”
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50–55 minutes
- Total Time: 60–65 minutes
- Servings: 1 standard 9×5 loaf (8–10 slices)
- Estimated Calories: ~285 per slice
Ingredients
For the Batter
- 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ¾ tsp kosher salt
- 1 ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk, room temperature
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- ⅓ cup (80ml) neutral oil or melted butter
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
Cinnamon-Sugar Filling
- ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
Donut-Style Topping
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- ⅓ cup (65g) sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Whisk together flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon in one bowl.
- In a second bowl, mix buttermilk, eggs, oil, and vanilla until smooth.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined, stop when no dry streaks remain.
- In a small bowl, mix the cinnamon-sugar filling.
- Pour half the batter into the loaf pan. Sprinkle with the filling. Add remaining batter and swirl lightly with a knife.
- Bake 50–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Brush the warm loaf with melted butter. Mix sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle generously over the top.
- Cool at least 20 minutes before slicing for clean cuts and best texture.
Suggested Image Placement: “close-up donut bread cinnamon swirl”
Substitutions & Dietary Swaps
- Gluten-Free: Replace flour with a high-quality 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.
- Dairy-Free: Use almond milk or oat milk with 1 tbsp vinegar to mimic buttermilk; swap in dairy-free butter or oil.
- Lower Sugar: Reduce sugar in the batter by ¼ cup; omit or reduce the topping.
- Oil-Free: Replace oil with equal parts applesauce for a softer, slightly denser crumb.
Chef’s Pro Tips
- Use room-temperature ingredients. This ensures a smooth batter and proper rise.
- Don’t overmix. Overworking flour creates a tougher crumb, mix until just combined.
- Swirl gently. A subtle swirl gives distinct layers without muddying the filling.
- Bake fully. Cinnamon breads brown quickly; tent with foil if needed during the last 15 minutes.
- Cool before topping. Brush melted butter while the loaf is warm so the sugar adheres beautifully.
Make Ahead, Storage & Reheating
Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread keeps its soft, donut-like texture for several days and can easily be made ahead for brunch or gifting.
Store fully cooled slices in an airtight container at room temperature for 3–4 days. For longest shelf life, refrigerate up to 1 week.
Freeze slices individually wrapped for up to 2 months. Reheat briefly in a 300°F (150°C) oven or toast until warm and fragrant.
Troubleshooting & Common Mistakes
- Dry or crumbly loaf: Overbaked or measured flour too densely, use a scale if possible.
- Sinking center: Underbaked loaf or cold ingredients.
- No swirl definition: Batter mixed too vigorously after adding filling.
- Gummy texture: Loaf sliced before cooling fully.
Flavor Pairings & Serving Suggestions
Serve warm slices with coffee, a chai latte, maple butter, or a dollop of whipped cream. This loaf shines at brunch tables and pairs beautifully with fall flavors or cozy breakfast spreads.
Pairing Recipes From Our Website
FAQs
Can I make Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread without buttermilk?
Yes! use milk plus 1 tablespoon vinegar or lemon juice.
Can I add a glaze instead of cinnamon sugar topping?
Absolutely. A simple vanilla icing works beautifully.
Can this be made as muffins?
Yes! bake at 350°F for 18–20 minutes.
Why did my topping melt?
The loaf may have been too hot; allow it to cool briefly before topping.
Can I double the cinnamon swirl?
Yes! add up to 50% more filling without affecting bake time.
Can I use whole wheat flour?
Use half whole wheat and half all-purpose for the best texture.
Conclusion
Rich with warm spices, coated in sweet cinnamon sugar, and unbelievably simple to prepare, Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread is the ultimate comfort loaf. Whether you serve it for breakfast, dessert, or a cozy weekend treat, its donut-like sweetness makes every slice memorable. Bake it once and you’ll want it in your rotation forever.