Cinnamon Sugar Donut Sweet Bread

Name: Cinnamon Sugar Donut Sweet Bread
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/4 cup canola oil; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 large eggs, at room temperature; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup buttermilk; 1/2 teaspoon molasses; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted (for topping); 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar (for topping); 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for topping); 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for topping)

Author: Clara Hastings

Published: February 22, 2026

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Introduction to Cinnamon Sugar Donut Sweet Bread

Hey there, fellow kitchen enthusiasts! If you’re anything like me, you’re juggling a busy life but still crave those cozy, delightful moments in the kitchen. That’s where this Cinnamon Sugar Donut Sweet Bread comes into play! It’s the perfect combination of flavors that brings the warmth of a fresh donut right into your home. This recipe isn’t just a treat; it’s a quick solution for a busy day, or a delicious way to impress your loved ones. Trust me, once you taste it, you’ll be hooked!

Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Sugar Donut Sweet Bread

This Cinnamon Sugar Donut Sweet Bread is a dream come true for busy moms and professionals. It’s incredibly easy to whip up, taking just about an hour from start to finish, including bake time! The irresistible aroma of warm cinnamon sugar fills your home, creating a comforting atmosphere. Plus, it’s a delightful treat that everyone, even picky eaters, will adore. Who wouldn’t want a slice of that bliss?

Ingredients for Cinnamon Sugar Donut Sweet Bread

Let’s gather our ingredients! Each one plays a vital role in making this Cinnamon Sugar Donut Sweet Bread a delightful treat. Here’s what you’ll need:

Canola oil: This helps keep the bread moist and tender, perfect for that melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Unsalted butter: Adding a rich flavor, remember to soften it first for better blending.
Granulated sugar: The key to sweetness, it complements the cinnamon beautifully.

Vanilla extract: A splash of this lovely flavor boosts the overall taste, making it even more irresistible.
Eggs: Using large eggs at room temperature is crucial; they help bind the ingredients and create that dreamy texture.
All-purpose flour: This gives the bread structure. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, feel free to substitute with a blend of your choice!

Baking powder: This is our leavening agent, ensuring a fluffy rise.
Salt: A pinch of salt balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
Buttermilk: This adds moisture and a slight tang, crucial for that perfect crumb. If you don’t have any on hand, mix regular milk with a teaspoon of vinegar as a substitute!

Molasses: This enriches the flavor profile with a hint of earthiness; don’t skip this step!
Ground cinnamon: The star of the show! It gives our sweet bread that delightful, cozy flavor we all love.
Unsalted butter (for topping): Brush on melted butter for a rich finish to this sweet treat.

Light brown sugar: This deepens the sweetness with a hint of caramel flavor in the topping.
Granulated sugar (for topping): Adds crunch and sweetness when rolled onto the loaf.
Ground cinnamon (for topping): Mimics that delicious donut flavor and aroma.

For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where they are laid out for easy printing. Now, let’s get ready to bake this deliciousness together!

How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Donut Sweet Bread

Are you ready to dive into this baking adventure? Making Cinnamon Sugar Donut Sweet Bread is a breeze! Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delightful loaf that fills your home with irresistible aromas.

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan

First things first! Preheat your oven to 350°F. This makes sure the heat is just right for our sweet bread to rise beautifully. While that’s warming up, grab a loaf pan and lightly grease it with nonstick spray. Trust me, you don’t want your labor of love to stick. A well-greased pan ensures smooth sailing when it’s time to release your masterpiece!

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

Now, let’s cream some butter! In a large mixing bowl, blend together the softened butter, oil, and granulated sugar. Use a hand mixer or a sturdy whisk. Aim for a smooth, fluffy mixture that looks light and airy. This step is essential; it incorporates air, which gives your loaf that delightful rise we all adore!

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Next up, it’s egg time! Beat in two large room temperature eggs and a splash of vanilla extract. The room temperature eggs make blending easier and contribute to that creamy consistency. You’ll know you’re done when the mixture is smooth and resembles a luxurious batter that you can’t resist licking off your spatula!

Step 4: Mix Flour and Buttermilk

It’s time to combine our dry and wet ingredients. Alternately mix in the all-purpose flour and buttermilk. Start with flour, then add buttermilk, and repeat until everything’s in the bowl. Be careful not to over-mix; just stir until you see no dry patches. The batter should remain slightly lumpy. This is key for keeping it tender!

Step 5: Prepare the Cinnamon Mixture

Ready for the aromatic part? In a small bowl, take about 1/2 to 3/4 cup of the batter and stir in ground cinnamon and molasses. This mix is about to amp up the flavor of your Cinnamon Sugar Donut Sweet Bread. It will create that distinct marbled effect throughout the loaf, making it both tasty and beautiful!

Step 6: Layer the Batter in the Pan

Let’s get layering! Pour half of the plain batter into that prepared loaf pan. Then, layer half of the cinnamon mixture over it. Repeat this with the remaining batters. For a lovely finish, use a knife to gently swirl the batters for that gorgeous marbled effect. This layering technique adds visual flair and a delightful burst of flavor in each slice!

Step 7: Baking Time

Now, it’s time to bake! Place your loaf pan in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, congratulations! You’ve just created sweet bread perfection. Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then carefully remove it.

Step 8: Apply the Cinnamon Sugar Coating

This is the crowning moment! In a shallow bowl, mix together light brown sugar, granulated sugar, and ground cinnamon for the topping. Brush your loaf on all sides with melted butter. Then, either roll or sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture all over the loaf. This sweet coating is what brings that delicious donut vibe to life!

Tips for Success

Always use room temperature ingredients for a smoother batter and finer texture.
Store leftover Cinnamon Sugar Donut Sweet Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

For even better flavor, let the bread sit overnight before slicing; the flavors deepen.
If using gluten-free flour, check cooking time as it may vary.
Experiment with adding nuts or chocolate chips for extra delight!

Equipment Needed

Mixing bowls: A large bowl for batter and a small one for cinnamon mixture.
Measuring cups: For precise ingredient measurements; consider using a kitchen scale for accuracy.
Whisk or hand mixer: Essential for blending ingredients smoothly.
Loaf pan: A standard 9×5-inch pan will do; silicone pans are a great alternative!

Spatula: Perfect for scraping down the sides and transferring batter.

Variations of Cinnamon Sugar Donut Sweet Bread

Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to cater to gluten sensitivities. Make sure it contains xanthan gum for structure!
Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil or a dairy-free butter substitute in place of butter, and use almond milk or coconut milk instead of buttermilk.

Nutty Delight: Add a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch and added flavor.
Chocolate Chip Surprise: Fold in a cup of mini chocolate chips for a rich, sweet twist that pairs beautifully with cinnamon.
Maple Flavor: Substitute maple syrup for granulated sugar in the batter for a lovely, warm flavor.

Serving Suggestions for Cinnamon Sugar Donut Sweet Bread

Coffee or Tea: Serve warm slices alongside your favorite brew for a delightful afternoon treat.
Fresh Fruit: Pair with sliced strawberries or bananas to add a refreshing contrast.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream on top makes it feel extra special.

Presentation: Slice the bread and arrange it on a platter, dusted with extra cinnamon sugar for a charming display.
Ice Cream: For a decadent dessert, serve warm slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

FAQs about Cinnamon Sugar Donut Sweet Bread

Here are some common questions I often hear about this delightful Cinnamon Sugar Donut Sweet Bread, along with helpful answers!

How should I store the leftovers?
For best results, store any leftover Cinnamon Sugar Donut Sweet Bread in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing individual slices!

Can I freeze the bread?
Absolutely! Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or place it in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just thaw at room temperature or gently reheat in the oven.

What are some serving suggestions?
This bread pairs wonderfully with coffee or tea. You could also serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or fresh fruit like bananas. For a more decadent dessert, a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side is simply divine!

Can I replace the buttermilk with regular milk?
Yes, you can substitute regular milk for buttermilk! Just add a teaspoon of vinegar to the milk and let it sit for a few minutes. This creates a similar tangy flavor that’s perfect for baking.

What if I don’t have molasses?
If you’re out of molasses, honey or maple syrup can work as substitutes, although they will slightly change the flavor. Just keep in mind that molasses adds a unique depth that really enhances the overall taste.

Final Thoughts

This Cinnamon Sugar Donut Sweet Bread is more than just a recipe; it’s a way to create special moments in your busy life. The aroma that fills your kitchen while baking draws everyone in, sparking joy and making your home feel warm and inviting. Whether it’s a cozy weekend treat or a delightful after-school snack, each slice brings a little happiness. It’s the perfect blend of simplicity and delightful flavors, making it an easy choice for busy families. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it a regular on your baking list!