If you’re a true lover of cozy flavors and irresistible bakery scents wafting through your kitchen, this Cinnamon Donut Bread will absolutely win your heart (and your taste buds). Imagine the old-fashioned magic of a cinnamon-sugar donut wrapped up in a tender loaf, with a crusty cinnamon topping that gives every bite a festival of crunch and warmth. It’s the kind of treat that turns an ordinary morning into a celebration—or adds a little sparkle to lazy afternoons. Whether you serve it fresh from the oven or sneak thick slices for midnight snacking, this Cinnamon Donut Bread is equal parts nostalgia and comfort, every time.

Cinnamon Donut Bread Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

All you need are a handful of kitchen staples to create something truly special. Each ingredient here plays an important role, from rich dairy to that vibrant, signature cinnamon swirl. Gather these before you start, and you’re already halfway to Cinnamon Donut Bread bliss!

Unsalted butter: Make sure it’s softened—this gives your bread a rich, tender crumb and unbeatable flavor.

Granulated sugar: Split between the batter and cinnamon topping, it adds sweetness and that beloved donut sparkle.
Large eggs: These bind everything together and give the bread its lovely, bouncy structure.

Vanilla extract: Just a teaspoon brings a bakery waft and rounds out the cinnamon beautifully.
Whole milk: Adds moisture and richness for melt-in-your-mouth slices.

All-purpose flour: Provides balance—it’s sturdy yet tender, perfect for a loaf with a craveable crumb.
Baking powder: This is what gives your Cinnamon Donut Bread that delightful rise and soft interior.
Salt: Even a little enhances every other flavor in the bread—don’t skip it!

Ground cinnamon: The star! Infuses the loaf and the topping with cozy warmth.
Granulated sugar (for topping): Sprinkled over top, it bakes into a golden crust for classic donut vibes.
Ground cinnamon (for topping): Mixed with sugar, it’s the finishing touch that brings everything together.

How to Make Cinnamon Donut Bread

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C)—this ensures an even bake and that signature golden finish. Grease a standard loaf pan generously with butter or nonstick spray; this helps the bread release easily after baking and keeps every slice picture-perfect.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with 1 cup of sugar until it’s light and fluffy. Take your time with this step—it makes a world of difference in texture, ensuring your Cinnamon Donut Bread is tender all the way through.

Step 3: Add the Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs to your butter-sugar mixture one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract; it’s such a small thing, but it brings out the best in the cinnamon and sugar.

Step 4: Incorporate the Milk

Gradually pour in the whole milk, mixing until the batter is smooth and creamy. Don’t worry if it looks a little loose—the dry ingredients will bring it together.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and 1 tablespoon of cinnamon. Make sure everything is evenly combined; this way, every bite of your Cinnamon Donut Bread is perfectly spiced and fluffy.

Step 6: Mix Wet and Dry

Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few small lumps are fine, but over-stirring can make the bread dense instead of light and cakey.

Step 7: Pour and Smooth the Batter

Scrape the batter into your greased loaf pan and use a spatula to smooth the top. This helps the topping sit evenly and bake into a wonderfully crackly crust.

Step 8: Make and Add the Cinnamon Topping

In a small bowl, stir together 1/4 cup sugar and 1 teaspoon cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture liberally over the batter. It creates that signature Cinnamon Donut Bread finish—sweet, spiced, and lightly crisp.

Step 9: Bake

Slip your loaf into the oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the top looks beautifully golden. Try not to peek too often; let the aroma be your guide!

Step 10: Cool and Enjoy

Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before gently removing it to a wire rack. This prevents any sticking and gives the texture time to set. Slice once fully cooled (if you can wait), and enjoy your homemade Cinnamon Donut Bread!

How to Serve Cinnamon Donut Bread

Garnishes

For extra flair, dust slices with a sprinkle of powdered sugar right before serving, or drizzle a bit of vanilla glaze over the top if you’re feeling indulgent. Even a knob of salted butter melting over a warm piece turns your Cinnamon Donut Bread into something unforgettable.

Side Dishes

Pair your bread with a steamy mug of coffee, spicy chai, or even a cool glass of milk—each one makes the cinnamon notes sing. Fresh fruit like sliced apples or strawberries are wonderful on the side, especially for a brunch spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn this bread into dessert! Try slicing and toasting pieces lightly, then serving with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and caramel drizzle. Or use Cinnamon Donut Bread as a decadent base for French toast. It also makes adorable tea sandwiches with a little cream cheese tucked between two thin slices.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, keep your Cinnamon Donut Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. The texture stays plush, and those cinnamony flavors continue to deepen over time, making each slice even more irresistible the next day.

Freezing

If you want to stash some extra for sudden cravings, slice the bread and wrap pieces tightly in plastic wrap, then seal in a freezer bag or container. It freezes beautifully for up to two months—you’ll thank yourself later!

Reheating

Thaw frozen slices at room temperature, then warm gently in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or pop in a toaster oven for more crunch. The aroma will make your kitchen feel like a donut shop all over again.

FAQs

Can I use low-fat or non-dairy milk?

Absolutely! The bread will still be delicious, though whole milk gives the most tender crumb and fullest flavor. Any preferred milk works; just know that plant-based versions may make the loaf a touch less rich.

How do I know when the bread is done baking?

Start checking at the 50-minute mark by inserting a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, your Cinnamon Donut Bread is ready. The top should also look beautifully golden and set.

Why did my loaf sink in the middle?

This often happens if the bread is underbaked or if the batter sits too long before baking. Always preheat your oven and check doneness carefully to get that perfect rise and dome.

Can I add mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips?

Definitely! Fold in up to 3/4 cup of toasted nuts, mini chocolate chips, or even raisins for a fun twist, just before spreading the batter in the pan.

Is there a way to make this gluten-free?

Swap the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free baking mix, and be sure your other ingredients (like baking powder) are also gluten-free. The Cinnamon Donut Bread will still rise and taste amazing with this easy change!

Final Thoughts

There’s just something magical about transforming a handful of simple ingredients into a loaf of Cinnamon Donut Bread that fills your kitchen with warm, sweet memories. I hope you’ll give this recipe a try and share a slice—or two!—with friends and family. Trust me, one bite and this will become a new tradition in your kitchen.