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Cinnamon Donut Bread

Cinnamon Donut Bread

Cinnamon Donut Bread is a soft, moist loaf packed with warm cinnamon flavor and a sweet cinnamon sugar swirl reminiscent of your favorite cinnamon-sugar donuts. This easy-to-make bread uses simple pantry staples and yields a comforting treat perfect for breakfast, dessert, or any time you crave a cozy, sweet snack. With fluffy texture and a golden cinnamon sugar crust, it’s ideal for both novice and experienced bakers looking to make a nostalgic homemade delight.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free option)
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

Wet Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (or plant-based oil for vegan option)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs (or flax eggs for vegan option)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt (plant-based yogurt for vegan option)

Cinnamon Sugar Topping

  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Gather all ingredients and preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to prepare for the batter.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. These components form the bread’s structure and infuse the signature cinnamon flavor.
  3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This aerates the batter and ensures a tender crumb.
  4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, mixing well to incorporate air and achieve a smooth blend.
  5. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Alternately add the dry ingredients and sour cream (or Greek yogurt) to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix gently and just until combined to avoid overmixing and a tough bread.
  6. Layer the Cinnamon Sugar: Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over it. Top with the remaining batter and finish with the remaining cinnamon sugar to create a swirled effect.
  7. Bake Until Golden: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown with a sweet crust.
  8. Cool and Enjoy: Let the bread cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step ensures the bread sets properly and slices easily.

Notes

  • Use room temperature butter and eggs for a smoother batter and better texture.
  • Do not overmix the batter to prevent dense and tough bread.
  • Spread cinnamon sugar evenly between layers for balanced flavor throughout.
  • Check bake progress at 50 minutes as oven times may vary to avoid overbaking.
  • Use freshly ground cinnamon for the best aroma and flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: cinnamon donut bread, cinnamon sugar bread, baked cinnamon bread, sweet bread, easy bread recipe, homemade snack