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Irresistibly Soft Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread Recipe

4.6 from 62 reviews

A warm, moist, and irresistibly soft Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread that combines the comforting flavors of cinnamon, molasses, and a sweet cinnamon-sugar crust. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy treat anytime, this bread offers a tender crumb with a delightful marbled swirl and crunchy topping.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Bread

  • ½ cup Canola Oil (can substitute with vegetable or coconut oil)
  • ½ cup Unsalted Butter (softened; margarine can be used as a dairy-free alternative)
  • 1 cup Sugar (or coconut sugar for a lower glycemic option)
  • 2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract (almond extract can be used for a twist)
  • 2 Large Eggs (room temperature; can use flax eggs for a vegan version)
  • 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (a gluten-free flour blend can be used)
  • 1 tablespoon Baking Powder (ensure it’s fresh)
  • ½ teaspoon Salt (reduce in low-sodium diets if needed)
  • ½ cup Buttermilk (or mix ½ teaspoon vinegar with ½ cup milk as a substitute)
  • ¼ cup Molasses (brown sugar can be used as an alternative)
  • 1 teaspoon Cinnamon (pumpkin pie spice can be used for a seasonal flavor)

For the Topping

  • ¼ cup Melted Unsalted Butter (for coating the bread)
  • ¼ cup Light Brown Sugar (dark brown sugar can enhance flavor)
  • ¼ cup Granulated Sugar (can use a sugar alternative)

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and spray a loaf pan with non-stick cooking spray to ensure easy removal after baking.
  2. Create Butter Mixture: In a large bowl, mix the softened butter, canola oil, and sugar together until well combined and creamy, about 2-3 minutes, to form a tender and flavorful base.
  3. Add Eggs and Flavorings: Beat in the eggs and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and cohesive, adding richness and structure to the batter.
  4. Incorporate Dry Ingredients and Buttermilk: Gradually add the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and buttermilk alternately to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined to avoid overmixing and preserve a light texture.
  5. Prepare Cinnamon Molasses Swirl: Remove a portion of the batter to a separate bowl and mix it with cinnamon and molasses to create a flavorful swirl mixture.
  6. Layer the Batter: Pour half of the plain batter into the prepared loaf pan, then add half of the cinnamon molasses batter on top. Repeat with the remaining plain batter followed by the cinnamon molasses batter on top.
  7. Swirl the Batter: Use a knife to swirl through the batter layers carefully, creating a marbled effect that blends flavors and looks visually appealing.
  8. Bake the Bread: Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, checking doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean when ready.
  9. Cool the Loaf: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely to prevent crumbling when sliced.
  10. Add Cinnamon Sugar Coating: Once cooled, dip the loaf in melted butter, then roll it generously in a mixture of light brown sugar, granulated sugar, and cinnamon to form a sweet, crunchy crust.
  11. Serve: Serve warm with coffee or tea for a cozy, delightful treat and enjoy the soft texture and sweet, spiced flavors.

Notes

  • Serve warm with coffee or tea to enhance the cozy flavors.
  • Ensure bread is fully cooled before slicing to maintain structure and prevent crumbling.
  • Use fresh baking powder to ensure proper rise and light texture.
  • Avoid overmixing the batter to keep the bread tender and fluffy.
  • Store in an airtight container at room temperature up to 4 days for best moisture retention.
  • The bread can be refrigerated for up to 6 days wrapped tightly, but may dry out slightly.
  • Freeze wrapped in plastic and foil for up to 3 months; thaw in fridge overnight before serving.
  • Try variations like adding chocolate chips, nuts, fruit, or spices for personalized flavors.
  • Use room temperature eggs for better emulsification and moistness.

Keywords: Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread, Cinnamon Bread, Sweet Loaf, Donut Inspired Bread, Moist Cinnamon Bread