This Cinnamon Donut Bread is a delightful treat that captures the essence of your favorite cinnamon sugar donuts, minus the frying. Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast, dessert, or as a snack, this moist loaf brings comfort and nostalgia to any occasion. Its tender crumb and sugary topping make it a standout addition to your recipe collection.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This recipe requires simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it perfect for bakers of all levels.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it warm with butter, toasted, or plain. It fits perfectly into any meal or snack time.
- Crowd-Pleaser: With its sweet cinnamon flavor, this bread will impress family and friends at gatherings or brunch.
- No Deep Frying Needed: Get the classic donut taste without the hassle of frying and extra calories.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: From weekend breakfasts to holiday gatherings, this bread is suitable for various celebrations.
Tools and Preparation
To create your delicious Cinnamon Donut Bread, gather a few essential tools. These will help you achieve the best results in your baking journey.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Loaf pan
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: These are crucial for combining ingredients thoroughly without spills.
- Loaf pan: A standard loaf pan ensures even baking and helps maintain the shape of your bread.
- Whisk: This tool helps incorporate air into your batter for a lighter texture.
- Spatula: Use it to fold ingredients gently and scrape down the sides of your mixing bowl.
Ingredients
To make this delightful Cinnamon Donut Bread, you will need the following 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)
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: Incorporate Milk
Gradually add the milk, mixing until combined.
Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and 1 tablespoon of cinnamon.
Step 6: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
Step 7: Pour Batter into Loaf Pan
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Step 8: Prepare 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
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
With these steps completed, you’ll enjoy every slice of your homemade Cinnamon Donut Bread, perfect for any time of day!
How to Serve Cinnamon Donut Bread
Cinnamon Donut Bread is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, serving this loaf can enhance its delicious flavor and appeal.
For Breakfast
- Serve warm with a pat of butter for a classic start to the day.
- Pair it with fresh fruit like berries or bananas for a refreshing balance.
With Coffee or Tea
- Enjoy a slice alongside your morning coffee or afternoon tea for a cozy experience.
- Consider drizzling a little honey or maple syrup on top for added sweetness.
As a Dessert
- Top with vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert option.
- Serve with whipped cream and chocolate sauce for extra decadence.
For Snacks
- Slice and toast it lightly for a quick snack option.
- Spread on nut butter for a protein boost.
How to Perfect Cinnamon Donut Bread
To achieve the best results when making Cinnamon Donut Bread, follow these helpful tips.
- Use room temperature ingredients: Ensure your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature. This helps create a smooth batter and improves texture.
- Don’t overmix the batter: Gently combine dry and wet ingredients until just incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf.
- Check oven temperature: Use an oven thermometer to confirm your oven is at the right temperature. This ensures even baking.
- Add extra cinnamon: For more flavor, consider adding additional cinnamon to the batter if desired.
- Cool properly: Allow the bread to cool in the pan briefly before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps retain moisture.
Best Side Dishes for Cinnamon Donut Bread
Cinnamon Donut Bread can be complemented by several side dishes that enhance its sweet and spicy flavors. Here are some great options:
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the bread.
- Greek Yogurt with Honey: Creamy yogurt drizzled with honey offers protein and tanginess that pairs well with sweet bread.
- Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs provide a savory contrast to the sugary notes of the bread.
- Nut Butter Toast: Spread almond or peanut butter on toasted slices for added richness and flavor.
- Granola Parfait: Layer granola and yogurt with fruits in a parfait for texture variety alongside your bread.
- Chia Seed Pudding: A creamy chia pudding can add an interesting texture while being light and nutritious.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking Cinnamon Donut Bread can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes to watch out for.
- Boldly measuring ingredients: Ensure you measure ingredients accurately. Use the scoop-and-level method for flour to avoid dense bread.
- Boldly skipping the creaming step: Creaming butter and sugar is essential for a light texture. Take your time with this step to incorporate air into the mixture.
- Boldly overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to tough bread. Stir until just combined for a tender result.
- Boldly neglecting oven temperature: Always preheat your oven. Baking in a cold oven can result in uneven baking and affect the final texture.
- Boldly ignoring cooling times: Letting the bread cool in the pan too long can cause it to become soggy. Follow the cooling instructions for best results.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
- Best enjoyed within 3-5 days when refrigerated.
Freezing Cinnamon Donut Bread
- Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap, then foil to prevent freezer burn.
- Can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Cinnamon Donut Bread
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm slices for about 5-10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices for 15-20 seconds or until warm.
- Stovetop: Place slices in a non-stick skillet over low heat, cooking until warmed through.
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 alter the texture slightly. Start by replacing half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat.
How do I know when my Cinnamon Donut Bread is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, your bread is ready!
Can I add nuts or fruits to my Cinnamon Donut Bread?
Absolutely! Consider adding chopped walnuts or diced apples for extra flavor and texture.
How should I store leftover Cinnamon Donut Bread?
Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
Final Thoughts
Cinnamon Donut Bread combines delightful flavors with easy preparation, making it perfect for breakfast or a snack. With options to customize with nuts or fruits, you’ll love making this recipe your own! Give it a try today!
Cinnamon Donut Bread
Indulge your senses with our delightful Cinnamon Donut Bread, a moist and tender loaf that captures the beloved flavors of cinnamon sugar donuts without the frying. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack, this easy-to-make recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home. Each bite offers a comforting blend of sweet cinnamon goodness that brings back fond memories while appealing to all ages. Whether enjoyed warm with butter or toasted with nut butter, this versatile bread is ideal for any occasion, from casual brunches to festive gatherings.
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
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 sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in vanilla extract.
- Gradually mix in the milk until combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
- Fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined; do not overmix.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- For the topping, mix together sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl and sprinkle it over the batter evenly.
- Bake for 50–60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let 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 (55g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg