Introduction

Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread is a delightful treat that combines the soft texture of quick bread with the sweet, spiced flavors of cinnamon sugar. Perfect for breakfast or a cozy snack, this easy-to-make loaf will fill your kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma.

A rectangular cinnamon sugar-coated cake sits on white parchment paper on top of a white marbled surface. The cake has a rough, golden brown crust with a textured layer of cinnamon sugar visible all over the top and sides. To the right side of the cake, there is an old knife with a dark wooden handle resting on the surface. In the upper left corner, part of a white bowl filled with a light beige powder is visible, adding more context to the baking scene. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups (300 g) granulated sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon kosher salt
1 ¼ cups (306 g) whole milk
1 large egg, room temperature
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
¼ cup (½ stick / 57 g) unsalted butter, melted (for topping)
½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar (for topping)
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and spray an 8 ½ x 4 ½-inch loaf pan with nonstick cooking spray.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, 1 ½ cups sugar, baking powder, and salt.
Step 3: In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, 2 tablespoons melted butter, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Step 4: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. The batter should be slightly runny—avoid overmixing.
Step 5: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared loaf pan.
Step 6: Bake for 60 to 70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few crumbs and the top is golden brown.
Step 7: Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then carefully remove it and place it on a large piece of parchment paper.
Step 8: While the bread is still warm, brush the entire surface with the ¼ cup of melted butter reserved for the topping.
Step 9: In a small bowl, mix the ½ cup sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg for the topping.
Step 10: Sprinkle the sugar and spice mixture evenly over the butter-coated bread, turning the loaf as needed to coat all sides. Save any leftover topping for later use.

Tips & Variations

For an extra indulgent touch, add a handful of chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter before baking.
You can substitute whole milk with buttermilk for a tangier flavor and softer crumb.
Use melted coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option.
Store leftover cinnamon sugar topping in an airtight container for easy use on other baked goods.

Storage

Store the cinnamon sugar donut bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep it refrigerated for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, warm slices briefly in a toaster oven or microwave to restore their soft, fresh-baked texture.

How to Serve

Two slices of light golden brown cake with a soft, moist texture and small air holes inside are stacked on a white marbled surface. The top slice shows the crumbly interior, while the bottom slice’s crust is dusted with sugar and cinnamon, giving it a slightly rough texture. There are scattered crumbs around the slices, adding to the homemade feel. To the left, part of a white bowl with a brownish powder is slightly visible. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different size loaf pan?

Yes, but baking times may vary. If using a larger pan, the bread will be thinner and bake faster. For smaller pans, it may take longer. Check doneness with a toothpick as baking times listed are for an 8 ½ x 4 ½-inch pan.

Can I make this bread vegan?

To make a vegan version, substitute the milk with a plant-based milk like almond or soy, replace the egg with a flax or chia egg, and use vegan butter or coconut oil instead of butter. The texture may vary slightly but the flavor will still be delicious.