Cinnamon Donut Bread

This Cinnamon Donut Bread is a delightful treat that combines the warm, comforting flavors of a classic cinnamon sugar donut into a moist and tender loaf. Perfect for breakfast or as a snack, this bread is quick to prepare and will fill your home with an irresistible aroma. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or enjoying a quiet Sunday morning, this recipe is sure to impress with its rich flavor and nostalgic appeal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can whip up this delicious bread in no time.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it warm, toasted, or with a spread of butter for an extra touch of indulgence.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family breakfast or a special gathering, this bread is always a hit.
• Nostalgic Flavor: The combination of cinnamon and sugar brings back fond memories of traditional donuts without the frying.
• Great for Meal Prep: This loaf stays fresh for days, making it perfect for meal prep or snacks throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before getting started on your Cinnamon Donut Bread, gather your tools to make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Loaf pan
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Having multiple sizes helps keep your ingredients organized while mixing.
• Loaf pan: A good quality loaf pan ensures even baking and easy removal of your finished bread.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for baking success, ensuring your bread rises perfectly.

Ingredients

For this delicious Cinnamon Donut Bread, you will need:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup whole milk
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for topping)
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon (for topping)

How to Make Cinnamon Donut Bread

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a standard loaf pan to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Cream together the softened butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract until mixed well.

Step 3: Add Milk

Gradually add in the whole milk while stirring continuously until fully combined with the mixture.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl:
1. Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon.
2. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture.
3. Mix until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.

Step 5: Prepare for Baking

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan:
1. Smooth out the top using a spatula for an even bake.
2. In a small bowl, mix 1/4 cup of sugar with 1 teaspoon of cinnamon.
3. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the batter before baking.

Step 6: Bake It!

Bake in your preheated oven for 50–60 minutes:
1. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when done.
2. Once baked, allow cooling in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy every slice of this scrumptious Cinnamon Donut Bread, perfect for any moment!

How to Serve Cinnamon Donut Bread

Cinnamon Donut Bread is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re having it for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, there are plenty of serving ideas to enhance its flavor.

Pair with Coffee

• A warm slice of this bread goes perfectly with your morning coffee, enhancing the cinnamon flavors.

Top with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Spread a layer of cream cheese frosting on top for an indulgent twist that adds creaminess to the sweet bread.

Serve Warm with Butter

• Enjoy a slice warm from the oven with a pat of softened butter melting into it for extra richness.

Create a Bread Pudding

• Transform leftover slices into a decadent bread pudding by soaking them in an egg mixture and baking until golden.

Add Fresh Fruit Slices

• Serve with fresh fruit like strawberries or bananas for a refreshing contrast to the sweet loaf.

How to Perfect Cinnamon Donut Bread

To achieve the best results when making Cinnamon Donut Bread, consider these helpful tips for perfecting your loaf.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensure that your butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Don’t overmix: Mix until just combined to keep the bread light and fluffy; overmixing can lead to a dense loaf.
• Check doneness accurately: Use a toothpick inserted into the center; it should come out clean when the bread is done baking.
• Cool properly: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack; this helps maintain its shape.
• Store correctly: Keep leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness for several days.

Best Side Dishes for Cinnamon Donut Bread

Cinnamon Donut Bread pairs well with various side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness alongside the sweet loaf.

2. Greek Yogurt Parfait
   Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a wholesome side that balances sweetness.

3. Scrambled Eggs
   Fluffy scrambled eggs provide protein, making your meal more filling while contrasting the sweet bread.

4. Chia Seed Pudding
   This creamy pudding makes for an excellent healthy side that offers texture and flavor variety.

5. Maple Syrup Drizzle
   A light drizzle of maple syrup adds extra sweetness and pairs wonderfully with cinnamon flavors.

6. Nut Butter Spread
   Almond or peanut butter spread on top enhances both flavor and nutrition, making it even more satisfying.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cinnamon Donut Bread, there are a few common mistakes that can affect your results.

• Not measuring ingredients correctly: Accurate measurements ensure the right texture and flavor. Use a kitchen scale or standard measuring cups for best results.
• Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can lead to dense bread. Mix until just combined to keep the bread light and fluffy.
• Skipping the greasing step: If you skip greasing the pan, your bread may stick. Always grease your loaf pan thoroughly before pouring in the batter.
• Not checking doneness properly: Relying solely on time can be misleading. Use a toothpick inserted into the center; it should come out clean when the bread is done.
• Ignoring cooling time: Cutting into the bread too soon can result in crumbling. Allow it to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Wrap tightly with plastic wrap or foil to maintain freshness.

Freezing Cinnamon Donut Bread

• Slice before freezing for easy access.
• Place slices in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating Cinnamon Donut Bread

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm slices for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on high for about 15-20 seconds.
• Stovetop: Toast slices on medium heat in a skillet until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Cinnamon Donut Bread.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

You can substitute whole wheat flour, but it may change the texture slightly. Consider using half whole wheat and half all-purpose for better results.

How can I customize my Cinnamon Donut Bread?

Add nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits for extra flavor and texture. Feel free to experiment with spices like nutmeg or cardamom as well!

How do I know when my Cinnamon Donut Bread is done baking?

Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, your bread is ready!

Is this recipe suitable for breakfast?

Absolutely! Cinnamon Donut Bread makes a delightful breakfast option, perfect alongside coffee or tea.

Final Thoughts

Cinnamon Donut Bread is a delicious treat that combines nostalgia with simplicity. It’s perfect for breakfast, dessert, or any snack time. Feel free to customize it with your favorite add-ins and enjoy this versatile recipe!