Description: A delightful twist on classic donuts, this Cinnamon Donut Bread combines the comforting flavors of cinnamon and sugar in a soft, moist loaf. Perfect for a weekend brunch, a cozy dessert, or a special treat any time of day, this bread is sure to become a family favorite. The ease of preparation and the irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen while it bakes make it a winner every time!

Ingredients:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3/4 cup buttermilk
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (for brushing)
1/2 cup granulated sugar (for topping)
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for topping)

Preparation:

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan. This ensures that the bread doesn’t stick to the pan and comes out cleanly after baking.

Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt. Whisking ensures that all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed, which is crucial for the bread to rise properly and have a consistent flavor.

Step 3: In a separate, medium-sized bowl, combine the granulated sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Then, add the buttermilk and stir until well combined. The buttermilk adds moisture and a slight tang, enhancing the bread’s texture and flavor.

Step 4: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tough bread. The goal is to incorporate the dry ingredients until there are no visible streaks of flour.

Step 5: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so it’s a good idea to start checking for doneness around the 50-minute mark.

Step 6: While the bread is baking, prepare the cinnamon-sugar topping. In a small bowl, combine the 1/2 cup of granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. In a separate small bowl, melt the 1/4 cup of unsalted butter.

Step 7: Once the bread is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This allows the bread to set slightly before removing it from the pan.

Step 8: After 10 minutes, carefully invert the bread onto a wire rack. Brush the top of the bread with the melted butter, then sprinkle generously with the cinnamon-sugar mixture. The butter helps the cinnamon-sugar topping adhere to the bread, creating a delicious, sweet crust.

Step 9: Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing and serving. This will prevent the bread from being too crumbly.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This Cinnamon Donut Bread is incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal effort for maximum flavor. It perfectly captures the essence of a warm, freshly baked donut without the hassle of frying. The moist, tender crumb, combined with the sweet cinnamon-sugar crust, makes it an irresistible treat. It’s versatile enough to be enjoyed as a breakfast item, a snack, or a dessert, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser. Plus, the aroma that fills your home while it bakes is simply divine!

Serving Suggestions:

Serve warm with a pat of butter for a simple yet satisfying treat.
Pair with a cup of hot coffee, tea, or a glass of cold milk.
Toast slices and spread with cream cheese or Nutella for an extra indulgent experience.
Serve as a dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Cut into cubes and use in bread pudding for a delightful twist.

Tips:

For an even richer flavor, use brown butter instead of melted butter in both the batter and the topping. To make brown butter, cook the butter over medium heat until it turns a nutty brown color and smells fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 3/4 cup of regular milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
To prevent the top of the bread from browning too quickly, tent it with aluminum foil during the last 15-20 minutes of baking.
Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze it for longer storage.
Add a glaze for an even more decadent donut experience.

Prep Time:

15 minutes

Cook Time:

50-60 minutes

Total Time:

65-75 minutes

Nutritional Information:

(Approximate values per slice, based on 12 slices per loaf)

Calories: 250
Protein: 4g
Sodium: 200mg

Conclusion

This Cinnamon Donut Bread recipe is a testament to the fact that simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavors. Its ease of preparation, combined with its comforting taste and aroma, makes it a must-try for any home baker. Whether you’re looking for a special breakfast treat, a cozy dessert, or a sweet snack, this bread is sure to satisfy. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to indulge in the delightful goodness of homemade Cinnamon Donut Bread!

5 Questions and Answers About This Recipe:

Q1: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

A: Yes, you can make this recipe gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Be sure to choose a blend that contains xanthan gum or add 1/2 teaspoon of xanthan gum to the dry ingredients for a better texture. Also, be mindful of the other ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free as well.

Q2: Can I add nuts or other mix-ins to the batter?

A: Absolutely! Adding nuts like chopped walnuts or pecans can add a lovely crunch and flavor to the bread. You can also add chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or even a swirl of apple pie filling for a customized twist. Fold in about 1/2 cup to 1 cup of your desired mix-ins after combining the wet and dry ingredients.

Q3: How do I prevent the bread from being too dry?

A: To prevent the bread from being too dry, make sure you measure the flour accurately. Spoon the flour into the measuring cup and level it off with a knife, rather than scooping it directly from the bag. Also, avoid overbaking the bread. Start checking for doneness around the 50-minute mark and remove it from the oven as soon as a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.

Q4: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time. The bread can be baked a day in advance and stored in an airtight container at room temperature. You can also freeze it for longer storage. Wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Q5: What can I use instead of buttermilk?

A: If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a quick substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 3/4 cup of regular milk. Stir and let it sit for 5 minutes before using. This will give you a similar tang and acidity that buttermilk provides, which helps to tenderize the bread and enhance its flavor.