Cinnamon Donut Bread

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I’ve always had a soft spot for donuts, especially the cinnamon-sugar ones that leave a trace of sparkle on your fingers. But sometimes, I want the flavor without the deep-frying — and that’s how I landed on this incredible Cinnamon Donut Bread. It gives me the taste of my favorite morning treat in a fuss-free loaf form that’s golden, fluffy, and loaded with nostalgic warmth.

The moment I pull this bread out of the oven, the scent alone pulls everyone into the kitchen. The crust forms this sugary, slightly crisp topping while the inside stays buttery and tender. It’s honestly one of those bakes that makes you close your eyes on the first bite. Whether it’s for a weekend breakfast, a sweet snack, or a cozy dessert with tea, this Cinnamon Donut Bread never disappoints.

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Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Donut Bread

• No yeast or frying involved – All the flavor of a classic cinnamon donut, baked into an easy quick bread.
• Moist and tender crumb – Soft inside with just enough density to hold together perfectly.
• Cinnamon-sugar magic – The topping gives it that classic donut crunch and flavor.
• Simple ingredients – Likely things you already have in your pantry.
• Crowd favorite – Perfect for brunch, gifting, or just treating yourself.

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What Kind of Cinnamon Should I Use?

Cinnamon plays a starring role in this bread, so the kind you choose can make a difference. I typically reach for ground Ceylon cinnamon when I want a delicate, sweet aroma, but Cassia cinnamon works beautifully too, offering a bold, spiced warmth — the kind most of us associate with donuts. If you’re a cinnamon lover, feel free to go a little heavy-handed. You won’t regret it.

Freshness matters too. If your cinnamon has been sitting in the back of the pantry for more than a year, it might not pack the punch you’re hoping for. A fresh, fragrant jar will make this loaf shine.

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Options for Substitutions

Whether you’re out of something or adjusting for dietary needs, here are some simple swaps that won’t compromise flavor:

• Buttermilk → You can mix regular milk with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes before using.
• Unsalted Butter → Salted butter works too—just reduce added salt slightly.
• White Sugar → A blend of white and light brown sugar can add depth.
• Egg → One flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water) can stand in for an egg in a pinch.
• All-Purpose Flour → Gluten-free flour blends can work, especially if they include xanthan gum.

This recipe is pretty forgiving, so feel free to adapt based on what you have or need.

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Ingredients for This Cinnamon Donut Bread

Each ingredient in this recipe brings something important to the table — from structure to flavor to that irresistible texture.

• All-Purpose Flour
  This is the backbone of the bread, giving it structure and a tender crumb.
• Granulated Sugar
  Adds sweetness and helps create that golden crust. It also balances the warmth of the cinnamon.
• Baking Powder
  Provides lift and ensures the bread rises beautifully without yeast.
• Salt
  Just a pinch enhances all the other flavors — don’t skip it.
• Buttermilk
  This keeps the crumb moist and adds a subtle tang that complements the cinnamon.
• Egg
  Acts as a binder and gives the bread a rich texture and beautiful color.
• Unsalted Butter (melted)
  Adds moisture and a rich flavor. It’s what makes the bread feel indulgent.
• Vanilla Extract
  Enhances the flavor of the cinnamon and adds depth.
• Ground Cinnamon
  The star of the show. It brings warmth and that unmistakable donut-shop aroma.
• Cinnamon-Sugar Mixture for Topping
  A blend of cinnamon and sugar sprinkled on top creates a sweet, slightly crunchy finish — just like a classic donut.

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Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper if you want an easier release after baking.

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Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon. Make sure everything is evenly combined — this step ensures the bread has a consistent texture and flavor.

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Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk the buttermilk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth. The buttermilk helps activate the baking powder and adds moisture to the loaf.

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Step 4: Bring It All Together

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently fold everything together. Be careful not to overmix — stir just until no dry streaks remain. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf instead of a tender one.

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Step 5: Fill the Pan

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth out the top with a spatula. The batter will be fairly thick — that’s exactly what you want.

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Step 6: Add the Cinnamon-Sugar Topping

In a small bowl, mix together a few tablespoons of sugar with a generous sprinkle of cinnamon. Evenly sprinkle this mixture over the top of the batter. This will create that signature donut-like crust.

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Step 7: Bake

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.

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How Long to Cook the Cinnamon Donut Bread

The ideal baking time for this Cinnamon Donut Bread is 45 to 55 minutes at 350°F (175°C). Oven temperatures can vary, so I usually start checking around the 45-minute mark. Insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf — if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs (not wet batter), it’s done.

Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10–15 minutes, then carefully lift it out and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. That helps lock in moisture while still allowing the steam to escape so the crust stays slightly crisp.

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Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Donut Bread

• Measure flour correctly – Spoon it into your measuring cup and level it off. Scooping packs it down and can make the loaf dry.
• Don’t overmix – Mix just until the flour disappears. Overmixing activates gluten, which can make the bread tough.
• Use room temperature ingredients – They blend better and help create a more even texture.
• Keep an eye on the top – If it starts browning too quickly, loosely cover with foil in the last 15 minutes of baking.
• Let it rest before slicing – Cutting too soon can cause the crumb to fall apart. Letting it cool fully gives the structure time to set.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Even a simple quick bread like this can go sideways if you’re not careful. Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Overmixing the batter
  It’s tempting to stir until smooth, but resist. A few lumps are okay — overmixing leads to a dense, chewy loaf instead of one that’s light and tender.
• Skipping the cinnamon-sugar topping
  This adds not just flavor but also texture. Without it, the bread misses that classic donut finish.
• Not greasing the pan properly
  Don’t assume it’ll pop right out. Butter, oil spray, and parchment paper all help avoid disaster.
• Using cold ingredients
  Cold butter or eggs can seize up the batter or bake unevenly. Let them sit at room temp for best results.
• Baking too long or too short
  Every oven is a little different. Rely on the toothpick test and visual cues like golden edges and a set center.

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What to Serve With Cinnamon Donut Bread?

This bread is versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of beverages and sides. Here are my go-to pairings:

1. Hot Coffee or Latte

A cozy cup of coffee complements the cinnamon warmth and adds to the “coffee shop at home” vibe.

2. Chai Tea or Spiced Herbal Tea

The spices in chai amplify the cinnamon flavors beautifully.

3. Vanilla Ice Cream

Sliced warm and topped with ice cream? It’s like turning a breakfast loaf into a dessert dream.

4. Fresh Berries

Strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries on the side add brightness and a refreshing contrast.

5. Greek Yogurt

Serve a slice with a dollop of creamy yogurt for a balance of tang and sweetness.

6. Warm Apple Compote

The cinnamon in the bread pairs perfectly with tender, spiced apples for a cozy autumn feel.

7. Salted Butter

A thin spread of soft butter on a warm slice? Simple and heavenly.

8. Caramel Drizzle

For special occasions, a drizzle of warm caramel sauce can turn this into a show-stopping dessert.

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Storage Instructions

Cinnamon Donut Bread stores beautifully — whether you want to enjoy it over a few days or save it for later.

• Room Temperature
  Wrap the fully cooled loaf in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It will stay moist and delicious for up to 3 days at room temp.
• Refrigerator
  If your kitchen is particularly warm, refrigerate it to extend freshness. Just wrap tightly to prevent drying out. It keeps well for up to a week this way.
• Freezer
  For long-term storage, wrap the loaf (or individual slices) in plastic wrap and then foil. Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months.
  To serve, thaw overnight in the fridge or on the counter, then warm gently in the microwave or oven.

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Estimated Nutrition

Here’s a rough breakdown per slice, assuming the loaf yields about 10 slices:

• Calories: 260–290
• Total Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Cholesterol: 50mg
• Sodium: 180mg
• Carbohydrates: 37g
• Sugar: 19g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 1g

Please note, actual values may vary depending on substitutions or portion sizes. For more precise info, using a nutrition calculator with your specific ingredients is recommended.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the texture of this bread like?

It’s soft and tender inside with a slightly crisp, sugary crust — very much like the inside of a cinnamon sugar donut in loaf form. Not dry, not too dense.

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Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious.

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What can I use instead of buttermilk?

Make a quick substitute with 1 cup of milk + 1 tbsp vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes before using.

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Can I use brown sugar instead of white?

Absolutely. Light brown sugar adds a bit of moisture and a hint of molasses flavor that works really well with the cinnamon.

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Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just be sure to divide the batter between two loaf pans and keep an eye on baking time — it may vary slightly depending on your oven.

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How do I know when it’s done baking?

Use the toothpick test: insert it into the center, and if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, it’s ready. The top should be golden and firm to the touch.

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Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Definitely. Add up to ½ cup of chopped walnuts or chocolate chips to the batter for extra texture or richness.

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Is this bread more for breakfast or dessert?

Both! It’s sweet and flavorful enough for dessert but pairs beautifully with morning coffee or tea. It’s incredibly versatile.

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Conclusion

Cinnamon Donut Bread is everything I want in a cozy bake: warm, fragrant, easy to make, and undeniably satisfying. It brings all the nostalgic flavors of a cinnamon-sugar donut into a sliceable, shareable form. Whether you bake it for brunch, a gift, or just to treat yourself, it’s one of those recipes you’ll find yourself making again and again.

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