This Cinnamon Donut Bread is a delightful twist on a classic favorite, capturing the sweet, warm flavors of cinnamon sugar donuts without the frying. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, this loaf is moist and tender with a crunchy sugary topping that makes every bite irresistible. Whether it’s for a cozy Sunday morning or an afternoon treat, this recipe will impress family and friends alike.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Bread
- For the Topping
- How to Make Cinnamon Donut Bread
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
- Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
- Step 4: Combine Milk
- Step 5: Mix Dry Ingredients
- Step 6: Combine Wet & Dry Ingredients
- Step 7: Prepare for Baking
- Step 8: Add Cinnamon Sugar Topping
- Step 9: Bake
- Step 10: Cool Down
- How to Serve Cinnamon Donut Bread
- With Fresh Fruit
- Drizzled with Icing
- Toasted with Butter
- Paired with Coffee or Tea
- As Part of a Brunch Spread
- How to Perfect Cinnamon Donut Bread
- Best Side Dishes for Cinnamon Donut Bread
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Cinnamon Donut Bread
- Reheating Cinnamon Donut Bread
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
- How do I know when my Cinnamon Donut Bread is done?
- Can I add nuts or fruit to my Cinnamon Donut Bread?
- What should I serve with Cinnamon Donut Bread?
- How long does it take to make Cinnamon Donut Bread?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip up this delicious bread.
- Versatile Enjoyment: Serve it warm with coffee for breakfast, or enjoy it as an afternoon snack or dessert.
- Nostalgic Flavor: The comforting taste of cinnamon sugar elevates this loaf, bringing back memories of your favorite donuts.
- No Frying Needed: Enjoy the same great flavors without the mess and added calories of deep frying.
- Perfect for Sharing: Slice it up and share with friends at gatherings or keep it all to yourself—it’s that good!
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking your Cinnamon Donut Bread, gather your tools to ensure a smooth process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Loaf pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Loaf pan: Crucial for shaping the bread to achieve that perfect loaf form.
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining wet and dry ingredients without any mess.
- Spatula: Helps in transferring batter smoothly into the loaf pan and scraping down the sides of the bowl.

Ingredients
For the Bread
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
For the Topping
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for topping)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon (for topping)
How to Make Cinnamon Donut Bread
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a standard loaf pan.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1 cup of sugar until light and fluffy.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 4: Combine Milk
Gradually add the milk, mixing until combined.
Step 5: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and 1 tablespoon of cinnamon.
Step 6: Combine Wet & Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
Step 7: Prepare for Baking
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Step 8: Add Cinnamon Sugar Topping
In a small bowl, mix together 1/4 cup of sugar and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the batter.
Step 9: Bake
Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 10: Cool Down
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
This Cinnamon Donut Bread offers an enjoyable experience from preparation to tasting. You’ll love how easy it is to make this delicious treat!
How to Serve Cinnamon Donut Bread
Cinnamon Donut Bread is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you serve it for breakfast, as a snack, or for dessert, this sweet loaf will please everyone. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.
With Fresh Fruit
- Serve slices of Cinnamon Donut Bread alongside fresh berries or sliced bananas for a refreshing contrast. The fruit adds a burst of color and flavor.
Drizzled with Icing
- Create a simple icing by mixing powdered sugar with a little milk. Drizzle it over the warm bread for added sweetness and a beautiful presentation.
Toasted with Butter
- For an extra indulgent treat, toast slices of the bread and spread them with softened butter. This brings out the cinnamon flavor even more.
Paired with Coffee or Tea
- Enjoy your Cinnamon Donut Bread with a hot cup of coffee or tea. The warm beverage complements the sweet, spiced notes of the bread perfectly.
As Part of a Brunch Spread
- Include this bread in a brunch buffet alongside other baked goods. It pairs wonderfully with muffins, scones, and pastries.
How to Perfect Cinnamon Donut Bread
To ensure your Cinnamon Donut Bread turns out moist and flavorful, consider these helpful tips.
Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Bringing your butter, eggs, and milk to room temperature helps create a smoother batter and ensures even baking.
Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined when adding dry ingredients to avoid a dense loaf. A few lumps are okay!
Check Oven Temperature: Make sure your oven is properly calibrated. An oven thermometer can help ensure accurate baking conditions.
Cool Properly: Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps prevent sogginess on the bottom.
Best Side Dishes for Cinnamon Donut Bread
Cinnamon Donut Bread can shine even brighter when paired with complementary side dishes. Here are some delightful options to serve alongside it:
Greek Yogurt: Creamy Greek yogurt adds protein and balances the sweetness of the bread. Top it with honey or granola for extra flavor.
Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs provide a savory contrast to the sweet loaf, making for a balanced breakfast plate.
Fruit Salad: A colorful fruit salad adds freshness and acidity that cuts through the richness of Cinnamon Donut Bread.
Nut Butter: Spread almond or peanut butter on slices for added creaminess and protein. It makes the dish more filling too!
Smoothies: Pairing this bread with a fruity smoothie enhances its flavors while providing additional nutrients and hydration.
Cheese Platter: Adding mild cheeses like brie or cream cheese creates an interesting flavor combination that guests will love.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking Cinnamon Donut Bread can be delightful, but it’s important to avoid these common pitfalls.
- Overmixing the batter – Mixing too much can make your bread tough. Stir just until ingredients are combined.
- Incorrect oven temperature – Ensure your oven is properly preheated. An inaccurate temperature can affect baking time and texture.
- Skipping the sugar topping – This adds flavor and a lovely crunch. Don’t forget to sprinkle it on before baking!
- Using cold ingredients – Cold butter or eggs can lead to uneven mixing. Let them sit at room temperature for best results.
- Not checking for doneness – Relying solely on cooking time can lead to underbaked bread. Use a toothpick to test for doneness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Cinnamon Donut Bread lasts up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Cinnamon Donut Bread
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Cinnamon Donut Bread
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes for best results.
- Microwave – Warm individual slices for about 20-30 seconds, checking frequently.
- Stovetop – Place slices in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes, flipping carefully.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Cinnamon Donut Bread.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but it may result in denser bread. Adjust the liquid if needed.
How do I know when my Cinnamon Donut Bread is done?
A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean. If it has batter on it, bake for a few more minutes.
Can I add nuts or fruit to my Cinnamon Donut Bread?
Absolutely! Chopped nuts or dried fruit can add great texture and flavor. Just fold them in gently.
What should I serve with Cinnamon Donut Bread?
This bread pairs wonderfully with coffee or tea. You could also serve it with butter or cream cheese spread.
How long does it take to make Cinnamon Donut Bread?
The total time is about 70 minutes, including prep and baking time. It’s worth every minute!
Final Thoughts
Cinnamon Donut Bread is a delightful treat that combines nostalgic flavors with ease of preparation. It’s perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a snack any time of day. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite nuts or fruits to make it your own!
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
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Cinnamon Donut Bread
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Cinnamon Donut Bread is a delightful and easy-to-make sweet loaf that captures the warm, comforting flavors of your favorite cinnamon sugar donuts without the frying. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, this bread is moist and tender with a crunchy sugary topping that makes every slice irresistible. Imagine slicing into this loaf to reveal its soft texture and aromatic spices—ideal for sharing with family and friends or enjoying all on your own. Whether you pair it with coffee in the morning or serve it as a sweet afternoon treat, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for topping)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a standard loaf pan.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and 1 cup of sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well each time before incorporating vanilla.
- Gradually add milk, mixing until combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
- Slowly add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; mix until just combined.
- Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- For the topping, mix 1/4 cup sugar with 1 teaspoon cinnamon and sprinkle over the batter.
- Bake for 50–60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center.
- Allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (70g)
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 35mg





