Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread Recipe

ByAmanda
Jump to Recipe· 4.5 from 10 reviews

If you’re craving something sweet, cozy, and a little bit nostalgic, let me introduce you to my absolute favorite treat—the Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread Recipe. Trust me, this isn’t just any quick bread; it’s like the best qualities of a cinnamon donut and a soft loaf wrapped into one incredible bite. Sticky on the outside with a perfect cinnamon swirl inside, it’s the kind of recipe you’ll want to make again and again. So, let me share how I whip this up in my kitchen, plus all the little secrets to get it just right!

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Why This Recipe Works

  • Balanced sweet and spice: The perfect combo of cinnamon, molasses, and sugars creates a warm, comforting flavor without being overpowering.
  • Swirled magic: Separating and swirling the cinnamon batter in makes each slice visually stunning and deliciously layered.
  • Buttery cinnamon coating: Dipping the warm loaf into melted butter and cinnamon sugar gives you that classic donut-like crisp outside.
  • Tender and moist crumb: Using buttermilk (or milk with vinegar) keeps the bread soft, making it perfect to enjoy fresh or saved for later.
Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread, cinnamon donut bread, sweet quick bread, cinnamon swirl bread, easy cinnamon bread - The image shows a loaf of cinnamon sugar quick bread with several slices cut and stacked. The bread has a golden brown crust coated with coarse sugar, giving it a sparkly, textured top layer. Inside, the bread is light yellow with a soft and moist texture, and a thin swirl of cinnamon runs through the middle of each slice. The loaf rests on a dark surface with a knife in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 this …

Ingredients & Why They Work

Each ingredient in this Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread Recipe plays a key role in texture and flavor, working together to create that soft, swirled, buttery experience — plus a coating that reminds me of fresh-out-of-the-fryer donuts. Here’s a quick peek at why we choose what we do.

Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread, cinnamon donut bread, sweet quick bread, cinnamon swirl bread, easy cinnamon bread - Flat lay of a small white ceramic bowl of light golden canola oil, a few pats of softened butter on a white ceramic plate, a small white bowl filled with white granulated sugar, two whole uncracked brown eggs, a small white bowl with pale vanilla extract, a neat pile of white all-purpose flour on a white ceramic plate, a small white bowl containing light brown baking powder, a small pinch of coarse salt on a white plate, a small white bowl of creamy buttermilk, a small heap of warm brown ground cinnamon on a white ceramic plate, a small dollop of dark molasses in a white bowl, a small shallow white ceramic dish with melted golden butter, and a small shallow white bowl holding a mixture of white and brown sugars with ground cinnamon all arranged symmetrically and naturally placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997
  • Canola oil: Adds moisture and tenderness without overpowering the flavor, plus keeps the crumb soft.
  • Butter (softened & melted): Used twice—softened in the batter for richness, melted for that decadent coating.
  • Granulated sugar: Sweetens and browns the bread perfectly.
  • Eggs: Bind the ingredients and add bounce to the bread’s texture.
  • Vanilla extract: Enhances the warm aromas and balances the cinnamon notes.
  • All-purpose flour: The base that gives structure; simple but essential.
  • Baking powder: Ensures a lovely rise and light crumb.
  • Salt: Balances sweetness and deepens overall flavor.
  • Buttermilk or milk + vinegar: Adds tang and keeps the bread tender with a subtle richness.
  • Cinnamon: The star spice giving the bread its signature warm swirl.
  • Molasses: Adds depth and complexity to the cinnamon swirl—don’t skip it!
  • Brown sugar (for coating): Mixes with granulated sugar and cinnamon for that perfect donut crust.
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Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Tweak to Your Taste

I love how forgiving this Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread Recipe is—feel free to make it your own! I often jazz it up based on the season or mood, and you’ll find it responds so well to little tweaks.

  • Use apple pie spice: Instead of just cinnamon, I sometimes swap in apple pie spice to give it a richer fall vibe—hello, cozy mornings!
  • Maple syrup swap: For a different sweet depth, try replacing molasses with a tablespoon of maple syrup in the cinnamon batter. It’s incredible.
  • Gluten-free: I’ve had success swapping the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend—just keep an eye on moisture levels, adding a splash of milk if needed.
  • Extra nuts or chocolate chips: For crunch or indulgence, folding in chopped pecans or mini chocolate chips into the plain batter adds a fun twist.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread Recipe

Step 1: Prep Everything and Preheat

First things first—preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly grease your loaf pan with non-stick spray or butter. I like using a light-colored pan for even baking and easy browning checks. While the oven is warming up, pull out your ingredients, making sure eggs are at room temp for smooth mixing.

Step 2: Mix the Batter in Two Parts

In a large bowl, beat together the canola oil, softened butter, and granulated sugar until creamy. Then add eggs and vanilla, stirring until smooth. In goes the dry mix—flour, baking powder, and salt—alternating with buttermilk to keep it silky. Scrape your bowl sides often to avoid lumps. Scoop off about half a cup of this plain batter into a smaller bowl, then mix in cinnamon and molasses to make your cinnamon swirl batter—this swirl is where the magic happens.

Step 3: Layer and Swirl the Batters in the Pan

Pour half of the plain batter into your loaf pan, then drop little spoonfuls of the cinnamon batter evenly over it. Pour the rest of the plain batter on top, followed by dollops of the cinnamon batter again. Grab a butter knife and gently swirl through the batters—don’t over-mix; just enough for that beautiful marbled effect.

Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs. Don’t overbake—it should be tender and moist but fully set. Pull it out and let it cool about 10 minutes before taking it out of the pan.

Step 5: Donut-style Cinnamon Sugar Coating

While the bread’s baking, melt your butter for dipping and combine the sugars and extra cinnamon in another shallow dish. When the loaf is warm (not hot), dip each side into the melted butter, spooning extra on for that crispy edge. Then roll and press the loaf in the cinnamon-sugar mixture, coating every inch. This step gives you that crave-worthy donut crust with a soft, fluffy interior.

Pro Tips for Making Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread Recipe

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  • Keep Eggs Room Temp: Room temp eggs blend better and prevent batter curdling, which keeps texture light and consistent.
  • Don’t Over-Swirl: Swirling creates a pretty pattern—mix just enough to meld, not fully combine, for the perfect cinnamon streaks.
  • Warm Loaf for Coating: If the bread is too hot, the butter will slide off; too cool, and the sugar won’t stick. Aim for warm and slightly soft.
  • Use a Light Pan: Dark pans can brown too quickly, risking overdone crust before inside is fully cooked—light pans give you better control.

How to Serve Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread Recipe

Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread Recipe - Serving Suggestion

Garnishes

I usually keep the garnishes simple—just a light dusting of powdered sugar if I want the look to pop a bit. But if you’re feeling fancy, a quick drizzle of vanilla glaze or a smear of cream cheese frosting pairs ridiculously well, especially for weekend brunch.

Side Dishes

This bread shines with a cup of your favorite coffee or chai tea. If I’m making a brunch spread, I serve it alongside scrambled eggs or fresh fruit salad to balance all that sweet buttery goodness.

Creative Ways to Present

For holidays or parties, I’ve sliced the loaf into bite-sized cubes, skewering them with berries and mini marshmallows for a fun dipper board. Another fun trick is turning thick slices into grilled “donut bread” slices on a pansy griddle, brushing with melted butter and sprinkling cinnamon sugar again for extra crunch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I keep leftover Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or airtight containers at room temperature—usually good for up to 3 days. It’s still soft, but the coating gets a little less crispy, so I like to refresh slices before serving.

Freezing

This bread freezes beautifully! Wrap the whole loaf tightly in plastic and then foil, or slice and freeze individual pieces between parchment paper. It keeps well up to 2 months, making it a fantastic prep-ahead treat.

Reheating

To reheat, I like toasting slices for that crisp exterior and warm, soft interior. You can also microwave briefly—but watch closely to avoid making it chewy. A quick recoat of melted butter and extra cinnamon sugar after reheating totally brings the “donut” effect back to life.

FAQs

  1. Can I use regular milk if I don’t have buttermilk?

    Absolutely! Just add 1/2 teaspoon of white vinegar or lemon juice to 1/2 cup of milk and let it sit for 5 minutes. This homemade substitute mimics the acidity of buttermilk, giving the bread its tender texture.

  2. Can I make this bread vegan?

    You can! Swap out eggs for flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water per egg, chilled) and replace butter with vegan butter or coconut oil. Use plant-based milk with the vinegar trick for buttermilk substitute. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious.

  3. How do I know when the Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread is done baking?

    Insert a toothpick in the center around 45 minutes; it should come out with just a few moist crumbs clinging to it, not wet batter. If the top is browning too fast, tent with foil and continue baking.

  4. Can I make mini loaves or muffins with this batter?

    Yes! Just adjust baking time—mini loaves take around 25-30 minutes, and muffins about 18-22 minutes. Keep an eye near the end so they don’t dry out, and apply the cinnamon sugar coating while warm for that donut feel.

Final Thoughts

This Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread Recipe holds a special place in my heart because it’s just so easy to make and feels like a hug on a plate. I’ve made it for family breakfasts, friend gatherings, and even just as a weekday treat. The way the cinnamon swirls and the buttery sugary coating melt into each bite always gets me—and I know you’ll enjoy it just as much. So, grab your loaf pan and let’s make this deliciousness happen!

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Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.5 from 10 reviews
  • Author: Amanda
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings
  • Category: Breakfast
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian
Print Recipe

Description

This Cinnamon Sugar Donut Sweet Bread is a delightful treat combining a moist, tender loaf with a cinnamon and molasses swirl, coated in a buttery cinnamon-sugar glaze. Perfect for breakfast or dessert, this recipe delivers the flavors of classic cinnamon donuts in a convenient loaf form.

Ingredients

Bread Batter

  • 1/4 cup canola oil
  • 1/4 cup softened butter
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 eggs at room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk or 1/2 cup milk + 1/2 teaspoon white vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon molasses

Coating

  • 1/2 cup melted butter
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease a light-colored loaf pan with non-stick cooking spray and set aside.
  2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine canola oil, softened butter, and granulated sugar until well mixed. Add eggs and vanilla extract, stirring until smooth.
  3. Add Dry Ingredients to Batter: Gradually add the flour, baking powder, and salt along with the buttermilk to the wet mixture. Mix until a uniform batter forms and scrape the sides of the bowl to ensure no lumps remain.
  4. Prepare Cinnamon Batter: Transfer 1/2 cup of the prepared batter to a smaller bowl. Stir in cinnamon and molasses until well combined.
  5. Layer the Batter: Pour half of the plain batter into the loaf pan. Spoon half of the cinnamon batter in dollops over the plain batter. Pour the remaining plain batter on top, then drop the remaining cinnamon batter over it. Use a butter knife to gently swirl the two batters together.
  6. Bake the Loaf: Bake for 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
  7. Prepare Coating: While baking, pour melted butter into a large shallow dish. In another shallow dish, combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon.
  8. Cool and Coat: Let the loaf cool for 10 minutes, then loosen the edges and remove it from the pan while warm but not hot. Dip each side into the melted butter, spooning extra butter over the edges for crispiness.
  9. Apply Cinnamon-Sugar Coating: Transfer the butter-coated loaf onto the cinnamon-sugar mixture and press gently to fully coat all sides and the top.
  10. Serve: Slice the loaf and serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy your delicious cinnamon swirl donut bread!

Notes

  • Ensure eggs are at room temperature to promote better batter mixing.
  • If you don’t have buttermilk, mix 1/2 cup milk with 1/2 teaspoon white vinegar and let sit for 5 minutes before using.
  • Use a light-colored loaf pan to better judge the doneness of the bread and prevent over-browning.
  • Allow the loaf to cool slightly before coating to prevent melting the sugar coating.
  • For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the cinnamon batter.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 310 kcal
  • Sugar: 20 g
  • Sodium: 210 mg
  • Fat: 15 g
  • Saturated Fat: 5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 40 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 55 mg

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