Oh, let me tell you about this Cinnamon Sugar Donut Sweet Bread—it’s like having your favorite bakery treat right at home, and it makes my kitchen smell absolutely magical. I still remember the first time I baked it; I had a craving for donuts but didn’t want to go through the whole frying process. So, I thought, why not bake that donut flavor into a loaf? And wow, was that a good idea! The result was a soft, moist bread with a sweet cinnamon swirl inside and a sugary crust on top that reminded me of those warm, fresh donuts you get at the fair.
The best part is how simple this recipe is. No yeast, no waiting around for dough to rise—just mix, pour, and bake. I’ve made it countless times now, and it’s one of those recipes that never fails to impress. My neighbor Sarah actually calls it “breakfast cake,” and honestly, I can’t argue with that. Whether I serve it for brunch, dessert, or as a mid-morning snack with coffee, it always disappears quickly.
What I love most is how versatile it is. Sometimes I toss in a handful of chopped pecans for crunch or drizzle a light glaze over the top for extra sweetness. And don’t get me started on the smell—cinnamon, vanilla, and buttery sugar swirling through the air. It’s comforting, nostalgic, and completely irresistible.
Let’s take a closer look at what goes into this Cinnamon Sugar Donut Sweet Bread.
What’s in Cinnamon Sugar Donut Sweet Bread?
Flour – The base of the bread that holds everything together. All-purpose flour works best here.
Sugar – Granulated sugar sweetens the loaf and helps form that lovely donut-like crust.
Cinnamon – The star spice. It brings warmth and that classic donut flavor.
Baking Powder – This gives the bread a good rise and makes it light and fluffy.
Salt – Just a pinch to balance the sweetness and enhance all the other flavors.
Eggs – They add richness and help bind everything together.
Milk – Any kind of milk will do, but I prefer whole milk for a richer texture.
Butter – Melted butter brings that soft, moist crumb and buttery flavor we all love in donuts.
Vanilla Extract – A touch of vanilla makes everything taste better and more aromatic.
Cinnamon Sugar Mixture – A blend of cinnamon and sugar layered into the bread and sprinkled on top for that sweet crunch.
Optional Add-ins:
– Chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts work well)
– A light glaze made from powdered sugar and milk
Is Cinnamon Sugar Donut Sweet Bread Good for You?
Well, it’s definitely a treat—but there’s nothing wrong with that now and then! This bread is made from real, simple ingredients, and you can always tweak it based on your dietary needs. Here’s what’s good about it:
Cinnamon – Known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, cinnamon adds more than just flavor.
Eggs and Milk – Provide protein and calcium, which support strong muscles and bones.
No Frying – Unlike regular donuts, this bread is baked, not fried, making it a lighter option.
Of course, this is still a sweet loaf, so if you’re watching your sugar intake, consider reducing the sugar or using a natural substitute. But in moderation, it’s a delicious way to enjoy something cozy and comforting.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– ½ teaspoon salt
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup milk (whole, almond, or your choice)
– ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– ¼ cup cinnamon sugar (for layering and topping)
Optional:
– ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts
– Powdered sugar glaze (½ cup powdered sugar + 1 tbsp milk)
Serves: 6–8 slices (but let’s be honest, you might go back for seconds or thirds)
How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Donut Sweet Bread
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Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a standard 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. Trust me, you’ll be glad you did when it’s time to lift that golden loaf out of the pan. -
Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Make sure everything is well combined—this helps distribute the cinnamon evenly so every bite is packed with flavor. -
Whisk the Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, beat the eggs lightly. Add in the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Stir until everything comes together into a smooth, creamy mixture. -
Combine Wet and Dry
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Don’t overmix—just enough to get rid of the dry spots. The batter will be thick and luscious. -
Layer with Cinnamon Sugar
Pour half of the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Then, sprinkle a generous layer of cinnamon sugar over the top—this creates that irresistible donut-like center. Pour in the rest of the batter and finish with more cinnamon sugar on top. If you’re feeling fancy, swirl it slightly with a knife for a marbled effect. -
Bake Until Golden
Bake the loaf in the preheated oven for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will smell like a dream while it’s baking—warm cinnamon, sweet vanilla, buttery goodness. -
Cool Before Slicing
Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10–15 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Don’t rush this step—it helps the bread set properly and makes slicing easier. -
Optional Glaze
If you want to add a little extra sweetness, whisk together powdered sugar and milk to make a simple glaze. Drizzle it over the cooled loaf for a bakery-style finish.
Sweet Tips and Fun Variations
– Add Some Crunch: Stir in chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for a toasty, nutty twist.
– Fruit it Up: Toss in a handful of raisins or chopped apples for a fruity surprise in every bite.
– Go Whole Grain: Swap half of the flour with whole wheat flour to add a bit more fiber and a nuttier taste.
– Mini Loaves or Muffins: Use the same batter for mini loaves or muffins. Just adjust the baking time—muffins usually take around 20–25 minutes.
– Make it Dairy-Free: Use almond milk and dairy-free butter if you’re avoiding dairy. The results are still incredibly moist and delicious.
This bread is such a joy to bake and share. I often wrap it up in parchment and give it as a gift during the holidays or bring it along to brunch. It looks beautiful, tastes amazing, and makes people smile—and that’s really what baking is all about.
Give it a try, and let me know how yours turns out. I always love hearing about your baking adventures and seeing your delicious creations!
How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Donut Sweet Bread
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Preheat Your Oven
First things first, I always make sure to preheat my oven to 350°F (175°C) before I even gather my ingredients. It saves time and ensures even baking. I also like to grease my loaf pan well or line it with parchment paper—clean-up is so much easier that way! -
Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar
I whisk together a mix of granulated sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. This simple combo is what transforms this sweet bread into something that tastes just like a classic donut. I make extra to ensure there’s enough for both layers and the top. -
Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, I combine all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, sugar, and a touch of cinnamon. This blend gives the bread its structure and spice. I make sure the dry mix is smooth and lump-free. -
Whisk the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, I beat the eggs, then mix in milk, melted butter, and pure vanilla extract. This mixture smells divine and creates a moist, flavorful base for the bread. I gently pour it into the dry ingredients, folding everything together with a spatula until it’s just combined—overmixing can make the bread tough, so I keep it gentle. -
Layer the Batter and Cinnamon Sugar
Here’s where the magic happens. I pour half the batter into the loaf pan and spread it evenly. Then I sprinkle a thick layer of the cinnamon sugar mixture right over the top. I pour the rest of the batter on and smooth it out gently. A final layer of cinnamon sugar goes on top, and sometimes I take a butter knife and make a few figure-eight swirls to marble the top layer slightly. It’s not necessary, but it makes for a beautiful finish. -
Bake to Perfection
I place the loaf pan into the preheated oven and set a timer for 50–60 minutes. The bread starts rising beautifully, and soon, the kitchen smells like a cinnamon dream. I check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center—when it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, it’s ready. -
Cool and Glaze
Once baked, I let the loaf sit in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. If I want to go the extra mile, I mix up a quick glaze using powdered sugar and milk and drizzle it generously over the cooled loaf. It soaks in just enough to give that sweet donut finish without making it soggy.
Sweet Tips and Fun Variations
– Add a Nutty Twist: For a little crunch, I sometimes toss in chopped pecans or walnuts. They add a lovely texture and nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with cinnamon.
– Switch Up the Flour: I’ve experimented with using half whole wheat flour for a slightly heartier loaf. It still turns out moist and delicious, with a richer flavor profile.
– Fruit Add-ins: On days when I’m craving something a little more fruity, I’ll fold in some diced apples or raisins. Both work beautifully with the cinnamon sugar blend.
– Mini Versions: If you don’t want a full loaf, you can make this recipe in a muffin tin or mini loaf pans. Just reduce the baking time to about 20–25 minutes for muffins.
– Dairy-Free Option: I’ve used almond milk and vegan butter for a dairy-free version, and it came out just as tasty. It’s a great alternative for those avoiding dairy.
Every time I make this cinnamon sugar donut sweet bread, it reminds me of lazy weekend mornings and cozy afternoons. Whether I’m sharing it with friends or sneaking a slice with my coffee, it never lasts long. Try your own twist on it and tell me how it turns out—I love swapping ideas and seeing your versions! Happy baking!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this cinnamon sugar donut sweet bread ahead of time?
Yes, absolutely! In fact, I often bake it the night before and let it cool completely before wrapping it in foil or storing it in an airtight container. It stays fresh at room temperature for up to 3 days. If I’m planning to serve it later in the week, I freeze it—just slice it first and wrap each slice individually. That way, I can thaw a piece whenever the craving hits.
2. Can I reduce the sugar in the recipe without ruining the texture?
Yes, but I’d recommend doing it cautiously. I’ve tried reducing the sugar by about 1/4 cup and still ended up with a moist, flavorful loaf. However, keep in mind that sugar not only sweetens the bread but also helps with its soft texture and golden crust. If you’re cutting back significantly, you might notice a slight change in flavor and moisture.
3. What’s the best way to store leftover sweet bread?
Once the bread has cooled completely, I store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It keeps well for 2 to 3 days. If I want it to last longer, I refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze it for up to 2 months. I just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil before freezing. When I want a slice, I pop it in the microwave for a few seconds or let it thaw at room temperature.
4. Can I add a glaze or topping to make it more like a donut?
Definitely! I love adding a simple glaze made with powdered sugar and milk. It adds a sweet, glossy finish that really enhances that donut-like feel. For something even more indulgent, I sometimes sprinkle extra cinnamon sugar on the glaze before it sets. Another fun idea is to brush melted butter on top right after baking and then sprinkle with cinnamon sugar for a true donut texture.
Cinnamon Sugar Donut Sweet Bread
- Total Time: 70 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (8–10 slices) 1x
Description
This Cinnamon Sugar Donut Sweet Bread is everything you love about a classic donut, baked into a soft, moist loaf. It’s swirled with cinnamon sugar, topped with a golden crust, and finished with a light, buttery coating. Whether you’re serving it at brunch, gifting it to friends, or enjoying it as an afternoon treat, this sweet bread brings cozy comfort to any table. Plus, it’s easy to make and even easier to love!
Ingredients
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2 cups all-purpose flour
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1 tablespoon baking powder
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
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1 cup granulated sugar
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1 large egg
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1 cup milk
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1/3 cup vegetable oil
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1/3 cup brown sugar (for cinnamon swirl)
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1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (for cinnamon swirl)
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2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for topping)
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1/4 cup granulated sugar + 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (for topping)
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
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In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Set aside.
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In another bowl, beat the sugar and egg until light. Add milk, oil, and vanilla extract. Stir to combine.
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Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
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Pour half the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
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In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon for the swirl. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the batter.
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Pour the remaining batter over the cinnamon layer and gently swirl with a knife for a marbled effect.
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Bake for 50–55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
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Let the loaf cool for 10 minutes, then remove from pan and place on a wire rack.
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Brush the top with melted butter while warm.
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In a small bowl, mix the cinnamon and sugar topping and sprinkle over the buttered top.
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Let the bread cool completely before slicing.
Notes
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For a richer flavor, try using buttermilk instead of regular milk.
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This bread freezes well—wrap tightly and store for up to 2 months.
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Add chopped nuts or mini chocolate chips for extra texture and taste.
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Serve warm for the best donut-like experience.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes