Easy Cinnamon Donut Bread

There’s something irresistible about the comforting aroma of cinnamon drifting through the kitchen. For me, it instantly brings back memories of cozy mornings, freshly baked treats, and that first bite of something warm and sweet. This Easy Cinnamon Donut Bread captures all of that magic in one beautiful loaf. It’s the kind of recipe I love to bake when I want something that feels special but doesn’t keep me tied to the kitchen for hours.

Cinnamon donut bread is exactly what it sounds like — all the soft, tender, sugary goodness of a cinnamon sugar donut, but in the form of a sliceable loaf. It’s perfect for breakfast, as an afternoon treat with coffee, or even as a dessert. And the best part? It comes together quickly, without the need for yeast or complicated steps.

If you’ve been craving a bakery-style treat that’s easy to make at home, this is one recipe you’ll want to keep in your back pocket. Every slice delivers a soft, buttery crumb, a generous swirl of cinnamon sugar, and just enough sweetness to make it indulgent without being overwhelming.

Over the years, I’ve baked countless loaves of sweet bread, but this one always gets the most requests from family and friends. The simple ingredients, quick preparation, and incredible flavor make it a go-to recipe for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One of the reasons I adore this recipe is how approachable it is. I know that some people shy away from baking because they worry it’s too complicated, but this loaf is proof that homemade baked goods don’t have to be intimidating. You don’t need a stand mixer, special equipment, or hours of waiting time. If you can stir, pour, and sprinkle cinnamon sugar, you can make this bread.

Another reason it’s a favorite is its versatility. I’ve baked it for holiday brunches, served it at casual coffee dates, and wrapped it up as a gift for friends. It always disappears quickly. The texture is moist and tender, yet sturdy enough to hold up to slicing and toasting if you want to serve it warm with butter.

I also love how the cinnamon sugar topping creates a slight crunch on the outside, almost like the coating of a donut. That contrast between the crisp exterior and the soft, fluffy interior is part of what makes it so addictive.

Finally, this recipe uses pantry staples you probably already have. There’s no running to the store for a rare spice or fancy flour. Everything is simple, straightforward, and budget-friendly — perfect for those spontaneous baking moments when the craving strikes.

What is Cinnamon Donut Bread?

Cinnamon donut bread is a sweet quick bread that mimics the flavor and texture of classic cinnamon sugar donuts, but in a loaf form. Quick breads are different from yeast breads — instead of rising slowly with yeast, they use baking powder or baking soda to rise quickly in the oven. That’s why this bread can be mixed and baked in under an hour.

The magic happens with the cinnamon sugar layer and topping. As the bread bakes, the sugar melts slightly, forming a delicate crust on top and a ribbon of flavor through the middle. It’s reminiscent of biting into a cinnamon donut that’s been rolled in sugar, but with the added bonus of thick, satisfying slices.

This bread is also a wonderful introduction to baking for beginners. Even if you’ve never baked a loaf in your life, you’ll find this process simple and rewarding. And for experienced bakers like me, it’s one of those recipes you can make almost on autopilot, which means you can focus on the joy of baking rather than stressing over precision.

I also appreciate that cinnamon donut bread has a long shelf life compared to some other baked goods. It stays fresh for days, and the flavor often deepens by the second day as the cinnamon has more time to mingle with the butter and sugar.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. These are all ingredients I keep stocked in my pantry and fridge, which makes it easy to whip up a loaf whenever the mood strikes.

• Flour – All-purpose flour works perfectly here, giving the bread structure while still keeping it soft.
• Sugar – You’ll use granulated sugar both in the batter and in the cinnamon sugar topping. It adds sweetness and helps create that irresistible donut-like crust.
• Cinnamon – The star of the show. Ground cinnamon brings warmth and depth to the bread, giving it that classic flavor we all love.
• Baking powder – This is the leavening agent that helps the bread rise quickly without yeast.
• Salt – A small amount of salt balances the sweetness and enhances the flavor of the cinnamon.
• Milk – Whole milk gives the bread a richer flavor and softer crumb, but you can use any milk you have on hand.
• Egg – Adds structure and helps bind everything together.
• Butter – Melted butter keeps the bread moist and adds a rich, indulgent flavor. It also plays a big role in creating that donut-like texture.
• Vanilla extract – Just a splash makes a big difference in enhancing all the other flavors.

Ingredient Substitutions & Variations

One of the things I love most about cinnamon donut bread is how adaptable it is. You can easily adjust it to suit your preferences or make use of what’s already in your pantry.

If you’re avoiding dairy, swap the milk for almond, oat, or soy milk, and use a plant-based butter. I’ve made it this way for friends with dietary restrictions, and it turns out just as delicious.

For a slightly healthier twist, you can use half whole wheat flour and half all-purpose flour. The bread will be a bit denser, but it will have a lovely nutty flavor. You can also reduce the sugar in the batter by a couple of tablespoons if you prefer less sweetness.

Feeling adventurous? Add a handful of chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, to the batter for extra texture. Or mix in some mini chocolate chips for a cinnamon-chocolate fusion that kids especially enjoy.

You can also play around with the spices. A pinch of nutmeg or cardamom can add a unique twist to the flavor profile without overpowering the cinnamon.

Equipment You’ll Need

One of the great things about baking cinnamon donut bread is that you don’t need an elaborate setup or expensive gadgets. In my kitchen, I stick to a few basics that make the process smooth and stress-free.

The first essential is a standard loaf pan. I prefer a metal 9×5-inch pan because it heats evenly and helps the bread bake through without overbrowning on the edges. If you have a glass pan, just keep in mind that you may need to reduce the oven temperature slightly to avoid an overly dark crust.

You’ll also need a mixing bowl or two. I like to use one large bowl for the batter and a smaller one for the cinnamon sugar mixture. That way, everything is prepped and ready when I need it. A whisk works beautifully for combining the dry ingredients, and a sturdy spatula is perfect for folding the wet and dry together without overmixing.

Measuring cups and spoons are non-negotiable for consistent results. Baking is part art and part science, and accurate measurements make all the difference in texture and flavor. I always measure flour by spooning it into the cup and leveling it off with a knife rather than scooping straight from the bag, which can pack the flour and make the bread too dense.

Finally, you’ll need a cooling rack. Letting the bread cool completely on a rack helps prevent the bottom from becoming soggy and allows the loaf to set properly before slicing. Trust me — patience here pays off.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making this bread is straightforward, but I find that a little extra attention to technique goes a long way toward achieving that perfect balance of fluffy interior and cinnamon sugar crunch.

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the bread starts baking immediately once it’s in the oven, which is key for a good rise. Lightly grease your loaf pan or line it with parchment paper, leaving a bit of overhang for easy removal later.

In your large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. This evenly distributes the leavening agent and prevents clumps. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Gently pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Using your spatula, fold them together until just combined. The batter should be slightly thick but not overmixed — overworking it can make the bread tough.

Now comes the fun part: layering the cinnamon sugar. Mix your cinnamon and sugar in a small bowl. Pour half of the batter into the loaf pan, then sprinkle a generous layer of cinnamon sugar over the top. Add the remaining batter and finish with another sprinkle of the cinnamon sugar mixture. This creates that signature swirl and topping.

Bake for about 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be golden and slightly crisp. Once baked, let the bread rest in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a cooling rack.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Texture and Flavor

After baking this bread countless times, I’ve learned a few tricks that take it from good to absolutely irresistible.

First, don’t rush the mixing process, but also don’t overdo it. The goal is to fold just until there are no visible streaks of flour. This keeps the crumb tender rather than dense.

Second, use fresh cinnamon. Spices lose their punch over time, and since cinnamon is the main flavor here, you want it to be vibrant and aromatic. I replace my cinnamon every six months for the best results.

Third, don’t skip the cooling time. I know it’s tempting to slice into the loaf while it’s still warm, but letting it rest ensures the structure sets and the flavors meld. If you absolutely can’t wait, cut a small end piece and enjoy it warm with a little butter — just know that the rest will slice more cleanly once cooled.

Lastly, if you want an extra-crispy top, sprinkle a bit more cinnamon sugar over the bread in the last 10 minutes of baking. The sugar will caramelize slightly, adding a delicate crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft crumb.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even a simple recipe like this has a few potential pitfalls, but they’re easy to avoid once you know what to watch for.

One of the most common mistakes is overbaking. Cinnamon donut bread should be moist and tender, so check it a few minutes before the recommended baking time. Every oven is a little different, and an extra five minutes can make the difference between perfect and dry.

Another mistake is overmixing the batter. This can happen if you whisk too aggressively after combining the wet and dry ingredients. Overmixing develops the gluten too much, leading to a denser loaf. Gentle folding is the way to go.

Using stale spices is another issue I see often. Old cinnamon won’t deliver that bold, aromatic flavor this bread needs. Fresh spices make a noticeable difference.

Lastly, skipping the layering step or mixing the cinnamon sugar directly into the batter changes the texture. The layered method gives you that distinct donut-like swirl and crunchy top — it’s worth the extra minute it takes.

How to Store Cinnamon Donut Bread

One of the reasons I bake this bread so often is because it stores beautifully. In fact, I think the flavor deepens after a day as the cinnamon sugar has more time to infuse the loaf.

Once the bread is completely cool, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. This helps lock in the moisture and prevents the loaf from drying out. At room temperature, it will stay fresh for about 3–4 days.

If your kitchen is particularly warm or humid, you might prefer to store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to wrap it well so it doesn’t absorb any fridge odors. Keep in mind that refrigeration can slightly firm up the texture, so I like to warm slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds before serving.

How to Freeze and Reheat

Freezing is a great option if you want to make a loaf ahead of time or save part of it for later. I often double the recipe, enjoy one loaf fresh, and freeze the second for a rainy day.

To freeze, first make sure the bread is completely cool. Wrap it in a layer of plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe bag. This double layer helps prevent freezer burn.

The bread can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing quality. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the loaf in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for several hours.

For that fresh-baked feel, I like to warm individual slices in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes. This revives the texture and makes the cinnamon aroma bloom all over again.

Serving Suggestions

This bread is so versatile that I serve it in different ways depending on the occasion. For a cozy breakfast, I like to pair it with a hot cup of coffee or spiced chai tea. The warm spices in the bread complement the richness of a good brew perfectly.

For a dessert twist, serve slices slightly warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The contrast of cold ice cream against the warm, cinnamon-scented bread is pure comfort.

It’s also a lovely addition to a brunch spread. Arrange slices on a platter alongside fresh fruit, yogurt, and other baked goods. Guests love the combination of textures and flavors.

If you’re feeling indulgent, try turning leftover slices into a cinnamon bread pudding. The bread’s soft, moist crumb soaks up custard beautifully, creating a rich and comforting dessert.

Flavor Variations to Try

While the classic cinnamon version is my personal favorite, there are endless ways to make this bread your own.

You could add chopped apples to the batter for a cinnamon-apple loaf that feels like a taste of fall in every bite. Pears work beautifully too, adding natural sweetness and moisture.

If you’re a chocolate lover, sprinkle a few mini chocolate chips into the cinnamon sugar layers. The result is a warm, gooey surprise in every slice.

For a nutty variation, add chopped pecans or walnuts to the batter or sprinkle them on top before baking. The crunch pairs wonderfully with the soft bread.

And if you like a little extra spice, blend a pinch of nutmeg, ginger, or cardamom into the cinnamon sugar. This subtle twist can make the loaf taste even more aromatic and special.

Pairing Ideas

This bread pairs beautifully with a variety of drinks and accompaniments. I personally enjoy it most with:

These pairings turn a simple slice into a memorable treat.

FAQs About Cinnamon Donut Bread

Can I make this bread gluten-free?
Yes. Substitute an all-purpose gluten-free baking flour blend in equal amounts. Make sure it contains xanthan gum for the right texture.

Can I use brown sugar instead of white sugar?
You can. Brown sugar will add a slight molasses flavor and make the bread a bit denser.

Do I have to use butter?
While butter gives the best flavor, you can use an equal amount of vegetable oil for a slightly lighter texture.

Why is my bread dry?
It may have been overbaked or too much flour was added. Be sure to measure flour correctly and check for doneness early.

Nutritional Information

Here’s an approximate breakdown for one slice of cinnamon donut bread (based on 10 slices per loaf):

These values can vary based on exact ingredients and portion size.

Final Thoughts & Encouragement to Try the Recipe

Easy Cinnamon Donut Bread is one of those recipes that feels like a little gift to yourself every time you bake it. It fills your kitchen with warmth, delivers bakery-level flavor, and comes together with minimal effort.

As someone who’s been baking for years, I can tell you this: a recipe doesn’t need to be complicated to be special. Sometimes the simplest combinations — cinnamon, sugar, butter, and flour — can create the most memorable treats.

So whether you’re baking for your family, sharing with friends, or just treating yourself, this loaf is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Once you try it, I have a feeling it will become a regular in your kitchen just like it has in mine.