Name: Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
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; ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg

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If you’re craving a sweet, cozy treat that feels like a warm hug from the oven, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread Recipe. Imagine a moist, tender quick bread infused with gentle vanilla notes and generously coated in a spiced sugar crust that crackles with cinnamon and nutmeg. It’s not only a treat for breakfast or brunch but also a brilliant anytime snack that satisfies that sugar craving without the fuss of frying donuts. This recipe brings the best of both worlds together in one glorious loaf!

Ingredients You’ll Need

A transparent glass bowl sits on a white marbled surface, filled with a creamy, light beige batter that has a smooth, thick texture. A wooden spoon with a pale pink handle is stirring the batter, creating swirls on the glossy surface. Around the bowl, there is a clear measuring cup partially filled with water and a white cloth with colorful sprinkles pattern casually placed nearby. The whole scene is bright and clean, highlighting the batter in the bowl. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are simple pantry staples, yet each one plays a key role in creating the perfect balance of texture, sweetness, and spice in the Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread Recipe. From the flour that forms the tender crumb to the warming spices that set the flavor mood, every element matters.

2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour: The foundation for a soft, fluffy bread texture.
1 ½ cups (300 g) granulated sugar: Sweetens the bread and adds to the crispy cinnamon sugar coating.
2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the bread rise beautifully and stay light.
½ teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the sweet flavors and balances the batter.
1 ¼ cups (306 g) whole milk: Adds moisture and richness for a tender crumb.
1 large egg, room temperature: Binds everything together while contributing to the bread’s soft texture.
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: Brings luscious richness to the batter.
1 tablespoon vanilla extract: Infuses a warm, comforting flavor throughout the bread.
¼ cup (½ stick / 57 g) unsalted butter, melted (for coating): Creates the perfect sticky surface for the sugar topping to cling to.
½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar (for coating): Combines with spices to form the signature sweet crust.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: The star spice that gives the bread its irresistible cinnamon sugar charm.
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds depth and cozy warmth to the flavor profile.

How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan

Start by heating your oven to 350°F and greasing an 8 ½ x 4 ½-inch loaf pan with nonstick cooking spray. This ensures your loaf bakes evenly and comes out effortlessly once done.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and kosher salt. This creates the base structure for your bread and evenly distributes the rising agent and seasoning.

Step 3: Whisk Wet Ingredients Separately

In another bowl, beat the whole milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined. This mix brings moisture, richness, and a lovely aromatic undertone to your batter.

Step 4: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gently pour the wet ingredients into the dry, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine. Overmixing can lead to a dense bread instead of a tender crumb.

Step 5: Bake Your Bread

Pour the batter evenly into your prepared loaf pan. Slide it into the oven and bake for 60 to 70 minutes until the top turns golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs.

Step 6: Cool and Butter the Surface

Once baked, let your bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before removing it to a parchment-lined surface. While the loaf is still warm, brush the entire surface generously with the melted butter to help the cinnamon sugar topping stick beautifully.

Step 7: Apply the Cinnamon Sugar Coating

Mix the granulated sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a small bowl. Sprinkle this fragrant spice mixture over the buttered bread, turning the loaf to coat all sides evenly. This step adds the classic “donut” crunch and aroma that makes this Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread Recipe truly special.

How to Serve Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread Recipe

The image shows three pieces of a loaf cake on a white marbled surface. The first two pieces are stacked, with the top slice slightly tilted, revealing a soft, light golden inside with a fine crumb texture. The third piece is the bottom of the loaf, showing a darker, sugar-coated crust with a slightly rough texture. There are light crumbs scattered around the pieces on the surface. To the left, part of a white bowl with a cinnamon-sugar mix is visible. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For an extra touch of indulgence, try dusting your loaf with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar or drizzle a little honey or maple syrup over slices. Fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream can also elevate your presentation and flavor experience.

Side Dishes

This bread pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea, making it a perfect choice for breakfast or a cozy afternoon snack. You can also serve it alongside scrambled eggs or a fresh fruit salad to balance the sweetness with some savory or refreshing elements.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice the bread into thick, generous slabs and toast them lightly for a crispy edge before coating with cinnamon sugar. Alternatively, cut into cubes to serve as a fun breakfast bread pudding base or even skewer pieces with fruit for a playful, shareable brunch platter.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain its moistness while keeping the sugar crust delightfully crisp.

Freezing

This bread freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2 months, and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

Reheat slices gently in a toaster oven or regular oven at 300°F for about 5 to 7 minutes. This will revive the crust’s crispiness and the tender crumb’s warmth, making it taste freshly baked all over again.

FAQs

Can I use almond milk instead of whole milk?

Absolutely! Almond milk or other plant-based milk makes a great substitute if you’re aiming for a dairy-free option, though it might slightly affect the richness and crumb texture.

Can this recipe be made gluten-free?

Yes, by swapping all-purpose flour for a gluten-free baking blend designed for breads, you can still achieve a delightful texture. Just be sure to check your baking powder is gluten-free as well.

How do I know when the bread is fully baked?

The best way is the classic toothpick test: insert a toothpick into the center, and if it comes out mostly clean with just a few moist crumbs, the bread is ready.

Can I double this recipe for a larger loaf or two loaves?

Doubling the recipe is possible, but it’s best to bake in two separate loaf pans to ensure even cooking. Baking time may vary slightly, so keep an eye on your bread as it approaches the usual finish time.

What’s the secret to the crispy sugar coating?

The warm melted butter brushed on the bread before sprinkling the cinnamon sugar is key. This sticky layer allows the sugar and spices to adhere perfectly, creating that signature crunchy crust.

Final Thoughts

There is something so joyful about baking and sharing this Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread Recipe—a humble loaf that brings the sweet allure of a donut right into your kitchen without the fuss of frying. Whether it’s breakfast, brunch, or a little afternoon pick-me-up, this bread feels like comfort and celebration all in one. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and experience the magic of cinnamon sugar goodness in every tender bite.