Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread Recipe
Introduction
This Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread brings the delightful flavors of cinnamon sugar donuts into a moist, tender loaf. Perfect for breakfast or an afternoon treat, it’s easy to make and sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup granulated sugar (for topping)
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (for topping)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan thoroughly.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon until evenly combined.
- Step 3: In another bowl, cream the softened butter and 1 cup of sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Step 4: Add the eggs one at a time to the butter mixture, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in the milk and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Step 5: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding gently and mixing just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.
- Step 6: Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly.
- Step 7: In a small bowl, combine the ½ cup sugar and 1 tablespoon cinnamon for the topping. Sprinkle half of this cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the first layer of batter.
- Step 8: Pour the remaining batter over the cinnamon sugar layer, then sprinkle the rest of the cinnamon sugar topping evenly on top.
- Step 9: Using a knife, gently swirl the batter and cinnamon sugar topping to create a marbled effect without fully blending the layers.
- Step 10: Bake for about 1 hour, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Step 11: Allow the bread to cool slightly in the pan before slicing and serving warm.
Tips & Variations
- Add a pinch of nutmeg to the cinnamon sugar topping for a deeper, more authentic donut flavor.
- Substitute 2% milk or buttermilk for regular milk to add a slight tang and richness to the bread.
- For individual portions, bake the batter in muffin tins and reduce baking time to about 20 minutes.
Storage
Store the Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap well and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat slices in a toaster oven or microwave to refresh before serving.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of flour?
All-purpose flour works best for this recipe to achieve the right texture, but you can try a mix of whole wheat and all-purpose flour for a heartier loaf, keeping in mind it may be denser.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Yes, by substituting butter with vegan margarine or coconut oil, eggs with flaxseed eggs, and using a plant-based milk alternative, you can make a vegan version that’s still delicious.
PrintCinnamon Sugar Donut Bread Recipe
This Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread is a delightful twist on traditional banana bread, featuring a sweet cinnamon-sugar swirl that mimics the flavors of classic cinnamon sugar donuts. Soft, moist, and perfectly spiced, it’s an easy-to-make loaf that satisfies your donut craving without the frying. Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or an indulgent snack, this quick bread is baked to golden perfection and topped with a crunchy cinnamon sugar crust.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf, about 10 slices 1x
- Category: Breakfast, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Wet Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Topping
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon to evenly distribute the spices and leavening.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter with 1 cup sugar until light and fluffy, which helps create a tender crumb.
- Add Eggs and Liquid: Add the eggs one at a time to the butter mixture, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in the milk and vanilla extract to combine all wet ingredients.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.
- Layer Batter and Topping: Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan. In a small bowl, mix the remaining ½ cup sugar with 1 tablespoon cinnamon, then sprinkle half of this cinnamon-sugar mixture over the batter in the pan.
- Add Remaining Batter and Topping: Pour the remaining batter over the cinnamon sugar layer, then sprinkle the rest of the cinnamon sugar on top of the batter.
- Swirl Batter: Use a knife to gently swirl the batter throughout the pan, creating a marbled cinnamon sugar effect.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating the bread is cooked through.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the bread to cool slightly in the pan before slicing and serving to enhance flavor and texture.
Notes
- Add a pinch of nutmeg to the cinnamon sugar topping for an added warm spice note reminiscent of classic donuts.
- Substitute 2% milk or buttermilk in place of whole milk for a slight tang and tender crumb.
- This batter can be used to make muffins by dividing it into a muffin tin and baking for about 20-25 minutes at the same temperature.
Keywords: Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread, Cinnamon Swirl Bread, Sweet Quick Bread, Breakfast Bread, Donut Inspired Bread

