Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread is a delightful fusion of traditional quick bread and the sweet indulgence of a sugar donut! It has a moist, tender crumb that practically melts in your mouth. What truly sets this bread apart is its spiced sugar coating. It’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or whenever you crave a sweet homemade treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious bread without any baking expertise.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it fresh for breakfast or as a delightful dessert; it fits perfectly into any meal plan.
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and sugar creates a heavenly aroma and taste that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Perfectly Moist Texture: Achieve a soft and tender crumb that stays fresh for days.
- Great for Sharing: This recipe yields 12 slices, making it ideal for gatherings with friends and family.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the baking process, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment will make your experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Loaf pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cooling rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Loaf pan: Ensures even baking and the perfect shape for your Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread.
- Mixing bowls: Allows you to combine ingredients thoroughly without mess.
- Whisk: Helps in achieving a smooth batter by blending wet ingredients effectively.

Ingredients
For the Bread
- 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
For the Topping
- ¼ cup (½ stick / 57 g) unsalted butter (melted)
- ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Spray an 8 ½ x 4 ½-inch loaf pan with nonstick cooking spray.
Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the following:
1. Add all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and kosher salt.
2. Mix until well incorporated.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together:
1. The whole milk,
2. The large egg,
3. The melted unsalted butter,
4. The vanilla extract until well combined.
Step 4: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the milk mixture into the flour mixture:
1. Stir gently until just combined—be careful not to overmix; the batter should be a bit runny.
Step 5: Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan:
1. Spread it evenly across the pan.
2. Bake for 60-70 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few crumbs and the top is golden brown.
Step 6: Cool the Bread
Once baked:
1. Remove from oven and let cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
2. Carefully remove from pan onto parchment paper.
Step 7: Prepare Topping
While still warm:
1. Brush entire surface with melted butter for topping.
Step 8: Sprinkle Sugar Mixture
In a small bowl, mix together:
1. The remaining granulated sugar,
2. The ground cinnamon,
3. The ground nutmeg.
Sprinkle evenly over the butter-coated surface of the bread while turning it as needed to coat all sides.
Now enjoy your freshly baked Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread!
How to Serve Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread
Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread is a versatile treat that can be enjoyed in many delightful ways. Whether for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, these serving suggestions will elevate your experience.
With Fresh Fruits
- Sliced Bananas – Add fresh banana slices on top for a sweet and creamy contrast.
- Berries – Serve with a mix of strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a refreshing touch.
As French Toast
- French Toast Style – Dip slices in an egg mixture and cook on the griddle until golden brown for a delicious twist on traditional French toast.
With Cream Cheese Spread
- Cream Cheese Frosting – Spread a layer of cream cheese frosting on each slice for an indulgent treat.
Drizzled with Honey or Maple Syrup
- Sweet Drizzle – A drizzle of honey or maple syrup can add an extra layer of sweetness that complements the cinnamon flavor.
Paired with Coffee or Tea
- Warm Beverage Pairing – Enjoy a slice with your favorite cup of coffee or tea for a cozy experience.
How to Perfect Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread
Perfecting your Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your bread turns out delicious every time.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients – Ensure your egg and milk are at room temperature to create a smooth batter.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter – Stir just until combined; overmixing can lead to dense bread.
- Check Oven Temperature – Use an oven thermometer to confirm that your oven heats accurately for even baking.
- Cool Properly – Let the bread cool in the pan before transferring it to parchment paper to avoid breaking.
- Adjust Spice Levels – Feel free to tweak the cinnamon and nutmeg levels according to your taste preference.
Best Side Dishes for Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread
Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread pairs beautifully with various side dishes. Here are some great options to consider:
- Greek Yogurt – A dollop of Greek yogurt adds creaminess and tang, balancing the sweetness of the bread.
- Scrambled Eggs – Fluffy scrambled eggs provide protein and complement the flavors well.
- Breakfast Sausages – Turkey or chicken sausages pair nicely, adding savory elements alongside the sweet bread.
- Granola Parfait – Layered with yogurt and fruits, granola parfaits make for a healthy side dish.
- Fruit Salad – A colorful fruit salad brings freshness and brightness to your meal.
- Chia Seed Pudding – This nutritious pudding offers a unique texture that contrasts nicely with the soft bread.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Improving your Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread can be easy if you know what to watch out for. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them:
- Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to a dense bread. Stir just until combined for a light texture.
- Skipping the cooling time: Allowing the bread to cool in the pan is crucial for proper texture. Don’t rush this step!
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Use proper measuring cups and spoons for accuracy. This ensures your bread turns out perfect every time.
- Using cold ingredients: Room temperature eggs and milk blend better, creating a smooth batter. Take them out ahead of time.
- Neglecting the spice coating: The cinnamon sugar topping is what makes this recipe special. Make sure to coat it generously while warm.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread in an airtight container.
- It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread
- Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
- The bread can be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheating Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F, wrap the bread in foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for 15-20 seconds.
- Stovetop: Heat slices in a skillet over low heat until warm, flipping as needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Cinnamon Sugar 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. Expect a denser loaf.
What can I use as a dairy substitute?
You can use almond milk or oat milk as alternatives to whole milk without compromising flavor.
How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
Simply replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend that includes xanthan gum for best results.
Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize your Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread by adding walnuts or chocolate chips into the batter.
How do I store my Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread?
Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate it for longer freshness.
Final Thoughts
Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread is an irresistible treat that combines the best of both worlds—sweet indulgence and comforting bread. Its moist texture and delightful spiced coating make it perfect for breakfast or dessert. Don’t hesitate to customize it with nuts or chocolate chips for an extra twist!
Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread
Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread is a delightful treat that marries the fluffy comfort of quick bread with the sweet warmth of cinnamon donuts. This easy-to-make recipe features a moist and tender crumb, perfect for breakfast or dessert. The spiced sugar coating adds an irresistible crunch and aroma that will have everyone coming back for more. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or warmed up later, this bread is a versatile addition to any meal plan. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a homemade delight that’s sure to impress.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 70 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 ¼ cups whole milk
- 1 large egg (room temperature)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup unsalted butter (melted) for topping
- ½ cup granulated sugar for topping
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon for topping
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg for topping
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare an 8½ x 4½-inch loaf pan with nonstick spray.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, mix milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients gently until just mixed; pour into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 60-70 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool for about ten minutes before transferring to parchment paper.
- Brush with melted butter and sprinkle with the cinnamon-sugar topping while warm.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (85g)
- Calories: 284
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 139mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 25mg



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