Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread: A Sweet Delight Awaits! Recipe
If you’ve ever dreamed of combining the nostalgic charm of a cinnamon donut with the comforting warmth of homemade bread, then get ready to fall in love. Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread: A Sweet Delight Awaits! offers that magical crossover, delivering a soft, tender loaf marbled with a cinnamon-sugar swirl that melts in your mouth. This treat is perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or an indulgent dessert, inviting you to savor every bite filled with that classic cinnamon sweetness and a lovely crunchy topping that’s just begging to be dunked in your coffee.

Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—the ingredients are straightforward but essential, each playing a crucial role in building the perfect texture and flavor. From the fluffy richness that the butter and eggs provide, to the spicy warmth of cinnamon, every element works harmoniously to make this bread truly irresistible.
- 3 cups all-purpose flour: The base of the bread giving structure and that soft crumb.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder: Ensures a light and airy texture by helping the bread rise.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavors subtly.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Infuses the dough with warm, aromatic spice.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds the right amount of sweetness for a gentle sugar kiss.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Brings richness and tender moisture to the bread.
- 2 large eggs: Bind ingredients together and add structure.
- 1 cup milk: Keeps the bread moist and soft with a subtle creaminess.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the sweet warmth with a lovely, floral aroma.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar for topping: Will create that irresistible crunchy cinnamon-sugar layer on top.
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon for topping: Perfectly complements the sugar for that iconic donut flair.
How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread: A Sweet Delight Awaits!
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan thoroughly with butter or cooking spray to ensure your bread comes out clean and intact after baking.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. This dry mix sets the stage for that wonderfully spiced bread flavor.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter with 1 cup of granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step is key for introducing air and giving your bread a light texture.
Step 4: Add Eggs, Milk, and Vanilla
One at a time, add the eggs to the creamed butter and sugar, beating well after each addition. Next, stir in the milk and vanilla extract until everything is well combined and silky smooth.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Slowly add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients, folding gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—the goal is a tender crumb, not toughness.
Step 6: Build the Cinnamon Sugar Layers
Pour half of the batter into your prepared loaf pan. In a small bowl, mix together 1/2 cup granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon for that dream team topping. Sprinkle half of this over the batter.
Step 7: Finish the Batter and Swirl
Pour the remaining batter over the cinnamon sugar layer and top with the rest of the cinnamon sugar mixture. Take a knife and gently swirl the batter to create a marbled effect that looks almost too good to eat.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Bake in your preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes. Your bread is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, and the top is golden with a delightfully crunchy sugar crust.
Step 9: Cool Before Slicing
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This resting time is essential for perfect slicing without crumbling.
How to Serve Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread: A Sweet Delight Awaits!

Garnishes
Enhance your Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread with a dusting of powdered sugar, a light drizzle of vanilla glaze, or even a dollop of whipped cream. These simple touches amplify the sweetness and add a beautiful finish for special occasions or casual treats.
Side Dishes
This bread pairs wonderfully with several sides like creamy mascarpone, fresh berries, or a hot cup of coffee or tea. Together, they create a cozy and comforting experience that feels indulgent yet homey.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the bread toasted with a smear of cinnamon butter or sliced and sandwiched with cream cheese and a sprinkle of extra cinnamon sugar for a unique spin. If you’re feeling adventurous, use slices as a base for French toast to keep the cinnamon sugar magic going.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Keeping it well wrapped ensures the bread stays moist and fresh, perfect for quick snacks or a sweet midnight treat.
Freezing
For longer storage, this bread freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before popping it in the freezer. It will keep well for up to 2 months and thaw gently at room temperature when you’re ready to indulge again.
Reheating
To revive that fresh-baked feel, warm slices in a toaster oven or microwave for 15-20 seconds. You’ll get that soft texture with the cinnamon-sugar topping crisply welcoming you back for another bite.
FAQs
Can I substitute the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour?
Yes, you can swap in whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and added fiber. Keep in mind it might make the bread slightly denser, so consider using a mix of half all-purpose and half whole wheat for the best texture.
Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?
Absolutely! Use a plant-based butter substitute and almond or oat milk in place of dairy milk. The cinnamon sugar topping and overall flavor stay just as delightful, making it friendly for those with dairy sensitivities.
Can I make this bread into muffins instead?
Definitely! Pour the batter into muffin tins and bake for about 18-22 minutes at 350°F. The cinnamon sugar topping still works great and muffins bake faster, perfect for individual servings.
What if I don’t have a loaf pan? Can I bake it in another shape?
Yes, a square or round cake pan will work too—just watch the baking time as it may vary slightly. Using the knife swirl technique is just as fun with other shapes!
Can I add nuts or raisins for extra texture?
For sure. Walnuts, pecans, or raisins add delightful texture and flavor complements. Stir them in with the wet ingredients before combining with dry for an evenly distributed mix.
Final Thoughts
This Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread: A Sweet Delight Awaits! is truly a slice of joy that brightens any day. Baking it from scratch gives you not just a delicious treat but also the cozy satisfaction of homemade goodness. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and make it your own little piece of sweet happiness at home.
PrintCinnamon Sugar Donut Bread: A Sweet Delight Awaits! Recipe
Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread, a delightful treat combining soft, fluffy bread with swirls of cinnamon sugar for a sweet, marbled finish. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an anytime snack, this easy-to-make loaf brings the taste of homemade donuts in a convenient bread form.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (about 10 slices) 1x
- Category: Breakfast, Snack, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Sugar Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for topping)
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon until evenly combined. Set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In another bowl, cream the softened butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar together using a mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Eggs, Milk, and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then stir in the milk and vanilla extract until the batter is smooth.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding gently until just combined to avoid overmixing which can toughen the bread.
- Layer Batter and Cinnamon Sugar: Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan. In a small bowl, mix the 1/2 cup sugar with 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon. Sprinkle half of this cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the batter in the pan.
- Add Remaining Batter and Topping: Pour the remaining batter over the cinnamon sugar layer, then sprinkle the remaining cinnamon sugar mixture on top.
- Swirl the Batter: Use a knife to gently swirl the top layers creating a marbled effect with the cinnamon sugar for added flavor and visual appeal.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, signaling the bread is done.
- Cool and Serve: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.
Notes
- For added richness, you can substitute whole milk with buttermilk or add a tablespoon of sour cream to the wet ingredients.
- Ensure not to overmix the batter after adding dry ingredients to keep the bread tender.
- This bread tastes best fresh but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Warm slices slightly before serving for a soft, freshly baked texture.
- Optional: Drizzle with a simple glaze of powdered sugar and milk for extra sweetness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/10th of loaf)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: cinnamon sugar donut bread, cinnamon bread, sweet bread recipe, homemade cinnamon bread, easy breakfast bread