If you love the taste of cinnamon sugar donuts, then you’re in for a treat with Cinnamon Sugar Donut Sweet Bread! This recipe takes all the warm, comforting flavors of a classic donut and transforms them into a soft, moist, and buttery sweet bread that’s perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack. Each bite is infused with cinnamon and vanilla, and the entire loaf is coated in a crunchy cinnamon-sugar topping that melts in your mouth just like your favorite bakery-style donut.
This bread is easy to make, requires no yeast, and doesn’t need any fancy equipment. Whether you’re making it for a cozy morning with coffee, a special treat for the family, or a bake sale, this Cinnamon Sugar Donut Sweet Bread is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Best of all, it stores well, so you can enjoy a slice (or two) all week long!
Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Sugar Donut Sweet Bread
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Tastes just like a cinnamon sugar donut – Soft, buttery, and coated in sweet cinnamon goodness.
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No yeast required – Simple to make with pantry staples and no rising time needed.
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Perfect texture – A tender crumb with a slightly crisp cinnamon-sugar coating.
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Easy and quick to make – Just mix, bake, and enjoy!
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Great for any occasion – Breakfast, dessert, holidays, or a sweet snack.
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Freezes beautifully – Make it ahead and enjoy whenever you crave something sweet.
Preparation Time and Yield
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
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Cook Time: 50-55 minutes
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Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
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Yield: 1 loaf (8-10 slices)
Nutritional Information (Per Slice)
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Calories: 230
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Carbohydrates: 32g
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Protein: 3g
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Fat: 10g
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Fiber: 1g
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Sugar: 18g
Ingredients for Cinnamon Sugar Donut Sweet Bread
For the Bread:
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1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
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1 teaspoon baking powder
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½ teaspoon baking soda
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½ teaspoon salt
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1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
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½ cup unsalted butter, melted
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¾ cup granulated sugar
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2 large eggs
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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½ cup buttermilk (or substitute with ½ cup milk + ½ teaspoon vinegar)
For the Cinnamon Sugar Topping:
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¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
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⅓ cup granulated sugar
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1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Step-by-Step Instructions for Cinnamon Sugar Donut Sweet Bread
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Set aside.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth. Then, stir in the buttermilk until fully combined.
Step 4: Mix the Batter
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the bread dense instead of soft.
Step 5: Bake the Bread
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 50-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool the Bread
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool slightly before adding the topping.
Step 7: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Topping
In a small bowl, mix together the sugar and cinnamon. Brush the melted butter over the top of the warm bread, then generously sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the top and sides.
Step 8: Let the Topping Set and Serve
Allow the bread to cool for another 15 minutes so the cinnamon sugar can set. Slice and enjoy warm or at room temperature!
Ingredient Background
The success of Cinnamon Sugar Donut Sweet Bread comes down to the beautiful balance between a few pantry staples that work harmoniously to mimic the nostalgic flavor of a classic cinnamon sugar donut. Each ingredient serves a distinct purpose, contributing to the bread’s soft texture, moist crumb, and irresistible sweet crust.
Let’s start with the all-purpose flour—a fundamental building block in baking. This flour provides the structure and strength needed to hold the loaf together, especially since there’s no yeast involved. Combined with baking powder and baking soda, the bread gets a good rise, forming a fluffy interior while staying tender and moist.
Cinnamon, the star spice, brings warmth and depth. This sweet spice, derived from the inner bark of the Cinnamomum tree, has been a baking staple for centuries. Its earthy sweetness pairs perfectly with sugar and butter, creating a cozy flavor that’s both familiar and comforting.
Then there’s the buttermilk. It’s not just a liquid—it’s a secret weapon in baking. The acidity of buttermilk reacts with the baking soda to help the bread rise, but it also adds a light tang that balances the sweetness. If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, a mix of milk and vinegar works just as well, giving you the same soft, moist crumb you’d expect from a bakery loaf.
The cinnamon sugar topping is what takes this from just “sweet bread” to full-on donut status. A combination of granulated sugar and ground cinnamon provides a crisp, flavorful crust. When brushed with melted butter, the topping adheres to the warm bread, slightly melting in and forming a delicate shell that crackles under your teeth—just like biting into a real cinnamon donut.
Technique Tips for Cinnamon Sugar Donut Sweet Bread
The difference between a good sweet bread and a phenomenal one often lies in the technique. With this Cinnamon Sugar Donut Sweet Bread, a few thoughtful steps make all the difference in the final result.
First, when mixing the batter, it’s important to avoid overmixing. Once the dry ingredients hit the wet, you want to stir just until everything is combined. Overmixing will develop too much gluten in the flour, leading to a tough or dense loaf rather than a soft, tender one. A few small lumps in the batter are totally fine and will bake out beautifully.
Another critical step is the application of the cinnamon sugar topping. It’s tempting to let the bread cool completely before adding the topping, but applying it while the bread is still warm is key. The heat from the loaf allows the melted butter to soak into the crust slightly, and the cinnamon sugar clings to it perfectly, creating that dreamy, donut-like texture. If the bread is too cool, the topping won’t stick well and may fall off.
Lastly, always test your loaf with a toothpick or cake tester. Every oven is a little different, and even five minutes can be the difference between a moist loaf and a dry one. Insert the tester into the thickest part of the bread; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs (but no wet batter), it’s ready to come out. Allow it to cool in the pan just briefly—this helps the bread finish setting—before transferring to a rack to prevent sogginess on the bottom.
Alternative Presentation Ideas
While this loaf is undeniably delicious in its traditional form, there are several creative ways to present your Cinnamon Sugar Donut Sweet Bread to give it a fresh twist depending on the occasion or mood.
One delightful option is to bake the batter into mini loaves or muffins. Not only are they adorable and great for portion control, but they also make perfect little gifts or party treats. Adjust the baking time to about 20–25 minutes for muffins, and 30–35 minutes for mini loaves. The smaller size also means more surface area for that dreamy cinnamon sugar coating.
Another fun variation is to layer the batter with a cinnamon swirl. Simply mix a few tablespoons of brown sugar and cinnamon, then layer half the batter into the pan, sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture on top, and then add the remaining batter. When you slice the loaf, you’ll get a beautiful, sweet swirl running through the middle.
For a dessert-worthy presentation, consider turning this bread into a sweet sandwich or sundae base. Toast thick slices, top with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, drizzle with caramel sauce, and finish with a pinch of sea salt. The contrast of warm, buttery bread and cold ice cream is heavenly—like a deconstructed cinnamon donut sundae.
Freezing and Storing Cinnamon Sugar Donut Sweet Bread
This sweet bread isn’t just a treat right out of the oven—it’s also incredibly convenient to store and enjoy later. Whether you want to plan ahead or save leftovers, it holds up beautifully over time with the right methods.
To store at room temperature, let the bread cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place it in an airtight container or zip-top bag to prevent it from drying out. It will stay fresh and moist for about 3 to 4 days. If your kitchen runs warm or humid, store it in the fridge to extend its shelf life another day or two, but allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Freezing this bread is also a breeze. Once it’s cooled and topped with cinnamon sugar, wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap, then again in foil to prevent freezer burn. You can also slice it and wrap individual pieces for easy grab-and-go servings. Stored properly, it will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge or let it sit at room temperature for a few hours.
To refresh frozen or day-old slices, pop them in a toaster oven or microwave for a few seconds. The warmth revives the buttery texture and slightly melts the cinnamon sugar topping, making each bite feel like it just came out of the oven.
Healthier Twist Ideas
If you love the flavors of this bread but want to make it a little more wholesome, there are several easy adjustments you can make without compromising on taste or texture.
Start by swapping out some of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour. Using a 50/50 mix adds fiber and nutrients while maintaining a soft crumb. The slight nuttiness of whole wheat flour also complements the cinnamon, adding an extra layer of flavor.
You can also reduce the fat by substituting half the melted butter with unsweetened applesauce. This not only cuts down on calories and saturated fat but also keeps the bread incredibly moist. Applesauce has a natural sweetness, so you might even find you can use a touch less sugar in the batter.
To cut down on refined sugar, consider using coconut sugar or maple syrup in place of granulated sugar. These natural sweeteners offer a lower glycemic index and add a rich, caramel-like flavor that pairs beautifully with cinnamon. You can also use a sugar substitute like monk fruit sweetener if you’re going for a lower-calorie option.
Serving Suggestions for Events
This sweet bread is incredibly versatile and fits seamlessly into just about any occasion. Its warm, cozy flavor and beautiful presentation make it a standout on any table.
For breakfast and brunch gatherings, slice it thick and serve alongside fresh fruit, scrambled eggs, or a warm cup of coffee. Arrange it on a wooden board with butter, jam, or cream cheese for a stunning breakfast spread that looks as good as it tastes.
Hosting a holiday get-together or cozy afternoon tea? Serve the bread warm with a drizzle of glaze or a dollop of whipped cream. Add a few sprigs of rosemary or slices of orange for a festive garnish. It pairs especially well with spiced cider or chai lattes.
If you’re bringing a treat to a potluck, bake sale, or school function, wrap individual slices in parchment or pop them into decorative paper bags. Label them as “Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread” and watch them disappear! It’s a guaranteed hit that feels nostalgic and indulgent all at once.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use oil instead of butter in this recipe?
Yes, you can use a neutral oil like canola or vegetable oil, but butter adds more flavor. If you substitute, use the same amount.
2. What if I don’t have buttermilk?
No worries! Just mix ½ cup milk with ½ teaspoon vinegar or lemon juice, let it sit for 5 minutes, and use it as a substitute.
3. Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely. Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend, and be sure to check that your baking powder is gluten-free too.
4. Is this bread very sweet?
It’s sweet, but not overly so. The cinnamon sugar topping adds most of the sweetness, while the bread itself has a mild, donut-like flavor.
5. Can I add nuts or raisins?
Yes! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or golden raisins are great add-ins for extra texture and flavor.
6. Can I skip the cinnamon sugar topping?
You can, but it’s what gives the bread that donut taste and feel. If you’re cutting sugar, try a light dusting of cinnamon instead.
7. How long does it stay fresh?
It stays fresh for 3–4 days at room temperature if wrapped well, or up to 3 months in the freezer.
8. Can I make this into muffins?
Definitely! Fill muffin cups ¾ full and bake at 350°F for 20–25 minutes. Don’t forget the cinnamon sugar topping!
9. Why did my bread sink in the middle?
That could be due to underbaking or overmixing. Make sure to test the center with a toothpick and mix gently.
10. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just divide the batter into two pans. Avoid overfilling, and bake both loaves on the center rack for even cooking.
Conclusion
Cinnamon Sugar Donut Sweet Bread is everything you love about a classic donut—warm, buttery, sweet, and coated in cinnamon sugar—but in a soft, sliceable loaf you can enjoy anytime. With its tender crumb, golden crust, and nostalgic flavor, it’s a treat that fits every moment, whether you’re starting the day with coffee or winding down with tea.
This recipe is easy enough for a weeknight bake yet impressive enough for holidays and parties. Plus, with options to make it healthier, gluten-free, or personalized with mix-ins, it’s endlessly adaptable. One thing’s for sure: once you try it, you’ll be hooked.
So whether you’re baking for yourself, your family, or a crowd, this Cinnamon Sugar Donut Sweet Bread is bound to become a beloved staple in your kitchen. Happy baking!