cinnamon donut bread

If you’re craving a treat that feels like a warm hug, look no further than cinnamon donut bread. This soft, sweet loaf combines the nostalgic flavors of cinnamon sugar donuts with the comfort of homemade bread, creating a breakfast or dessert option that’s both simple and irresistible. Whether you’re baking for a brunch or an indulgent snack, this cinnamon donut bread recipe brings a delightful cinnamon swirl and tender crumb that melts in your mouth every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Soft Texture: The bread is tender and moist, giving you that perfect donut-like chew without all the frying.
• Easy to Make: With basic pantry ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe works for bakers of every skill level.
• Perfect Cinnamon Swirls: Every slice is packed with cinnamon sugar goodness, offering a sweet surprise in each bite.
• Versatile for Any Occasion: Great for breakfasts, brunches, or even a cozy dessert after dinner.
• Customizable Flavor: You can easily tweak toppings or mix-ins to suit your tastes or dietary needs.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to mastering cinnamon donut bread. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating the bread’s wonderful texture, flavor, and aroma.

• All-purpose flour: The foundation that gives structure and softness to the bread.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetness that balances the warm spices and complements the cinnamon swirl.
• Active dry yeast: Helps the dough rise, creating that light and airy texture.
• Whole milk: Adds richness and moisture, enhancing the bread’s softness.
• Unsalted butter: Provides tender crumb and rich flavor, plus a buttery finish to the dough.
• Eggs: Bind ingredients and add protein for structure without making the bread dense.
• Ground cinnamon: The star spice that infuses every bite with warmth and sweetness.
• Brown sugar: Perfect for the cinnamon swirl, giving a deep molasses flavor and sticky texture.
• Salt: Enhances all flavors and balances the sweetness.

Variations for Cinnamon Donut Bread

This cinnamon donut bread recipe is wonderfully flexible, allowing you to add your own twist to create a new favorite. Try these variations to tailor it exactly to your liking.

• Glazed Donut Bread: Drizzle a simple powdered sugar glaze on top for an authentic donut feel.
• Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans in the cinnamon swirl for extra texture and flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend suitable for yeast breads.
• Vegan Twist: Replace milk with almond milk and butter with coconut oil, and use a flax egg for binding.
• Apple Cinnamon Delight: Mix diced apples into the dough for fruity bursts within the cinnamon sugar swirl.

How to Make Cinnamon Donut Bread

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Warm the whole milk until it’s lukewarm to the touch, then combine it with the active dry yeast and a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy, signaling that the yeast is activated. Meanwhile, mix your dry ingredients—flour, salt, and cinnamon—in a large bowl.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

Add softened butter, sugar, and eggs to the yeast mixture, then gradually fold in the dry ingredients. Stir or knead the dough until it forms a smooth, elastic ball that’s slightly sticky but manageable.

Step 3: First Rise

Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size. This step is key for that soft and airy texture inside your cinnamon donut bread.

Step 4: Create the Cinnamon Swirl

Roll the dough onto a floured surface into a rectangle shape. Sprinkle an even layer of the cinnamon and brown sugar mixture over the dough. Starting from one edge, gently roll the dough into a tight log, making sure to keep the cinnamon sugar inside.

Step 5: Shape and Second Rise

Place the dough log into a greased loaf pan, tucking the ends underneath to create an even shape. Cover again and let the dough rise for an additional 30-45 minutes until puffed.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the loaf for 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow it to cool slightly before slicing to let the flavors settle beautifully.

Pro Tips for Making Cinnamon Donut Bread

• Use fresh yeast: Always check your yeast’s expiration date to ensure your bread rises perfectly every time.
• Let dough rest properly: Patience during the rising stages is crucial for a soft crumb and full flavor development.
• Don’t over-flour: Keep the dough slightly sticky for tender bread but add flour sparingly to avoid dryness.
• Even swirl layering: Spread cinnamon sugar evenly so every slice gets those wonderful cinnamon pockets.
• Cool before slicing: Letting the bread cool fully prevents it from becoming gummy or losing its shape.

How to Serve Cinnamon Donut Bread

Garnishes

Top your slices with a sprinkle of powdered sugar, a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk, or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence that enhances the sweetness and festive look.

Side Dishes

This bread pairs perfectly with fresh fruit, yogurt, or a hot cup of coffee or tea, turning your treat into a balanced breakfast or a comforting afternoon snack.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party or cozy brunch, slice the bread thickly and toast each piece slightly, then serve with cinnamon butter or cream cheese spreads—your guests will appreciate the extra thought!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap your cinnamon donut bread tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature.

Freezing

You can freeze the whole loaf or individual slices by wrapping them well and placing in a freezer bag. They stay perfect for up to 2 months, making it easy to enjoy cinnamon donut bread anytime.

Reheating

Warm slices in a toaster oven or microwave for 15-20 seconds to revive that moist, freshly baked texture and bring back the fragrance of cinnamon and butter.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes! Instant yeast can be used and generally works faster; just add it directly to the dry ingredients without proofing first.

Is cinnamon donut bread heavy like a cake?

No, this bread has a light and airy texture due to the yeast, making it much fluffier than a typical cake or quick bread.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute milk with a plant-based milk and replace butter with vegan butter or coconut oil for a delicious dairy-free version.

What is the best way to store leftover cinnamon donut bread?

Keep it wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or freeze for longer storage.

Can I add nuts or raisins to this recipe?

Definitely! Mix them into the dough or sprinkle them on top of the cinnamon sugar layer before rolling for added texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so wonderfully comforting about a slice of cinnamon donut bread fresh from the oven. With its sweet cinnamon swirls, soft texture, and easy preparation, this recipe is bound to become a staple in your kitchen. Give it a try for your next breakfast, brunch, or cozy dessert—once you taste it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without this perfect cinnamon treat.

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