Golden and crunchy on top with a soft, cinnamon-kissed crumb inside, this Cinnamon Donut Bread delivers everything you love about a classic cake donut in one loaf-pan package. Each slice is moist and flavorful, coated in a buttery cinnamon-sugar topping that crackles delightfully with every bite. It’s the kind of comfort bake that fills your kitchen with warmth and sweet nostalgia.
Whether you serve it for brunch, afternoon tea, or as an easy dessert, this bread never fails to charm. You don’t need any yeast or fancy tools—just a bowl, a whisk, and a craving for cinnamon. It’s simple, sweet, and deeply satisfying.
Ingredients for this Cinnamon Donut Bread Recipe
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk (or 1 cup milk + 1 tbsp vinegar)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
For the topping:
- 3 tablespoons melted butter
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easier removal.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, vegetable oil, and sugar until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in the buttermilk and vanilla extract until fully combined.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring just until no streaks of flour remain. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.
Step 4: Bake
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.
Step 5: Add Cinnamon Sugar Topping
While the bread is still warm, brush the top with melted butter. In a small bowl, mix the cinnamon and sugar for the topping. Sprinkle or roll the loaf in the mixture until generously coated. Let it cool completely before slicing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe without buttermilk?
Yes! You can substitute buttermilk with a mix of 1 cup milk and 1 tablespoon vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
Can I add nuts or fruit?
Absolutely. Chopped pecans or walnuts add a nice crunch, and diced apples or raisins complement the cinnamon flavor well.
Is it okay to use whole wheat flour?
You can substitute up to half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat. Keep in mind it may slightly change the texture and flavor.
What if I don’t have a loaf pan?
This batter also works well in a muffin tin. Adjust baking time to 18-22 minutes for muffins.
How do I know when it’s done baking?
Insert a toothpick in the center—if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, the bread is done.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, this recipe doubles beautifully. You can bake two loaves at once, just make sure to rotate the pans halfway through baking.
Cinnamon Donut Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45-55 minutes
- Total Time: 19 minute
- Yield: 1 loaf (8–10 slices) 1x
- Category: Breakfast
Description
This Cinnamon Donut Bread is a deliciously simple treat that brings the nostalgic flavor of classic donuts into a loaf that’s perfect for cozy mornings or afternoon cravings. It’s a quick breakfast, easy dessert, or anytime snack with the perfect balance of fluffy, moist texture and crunchy cinnamon-sugar topping. If you’re on the hunt for sweet breakfast ideas, food ideas for a brunch table, or an easy recipe for family gatherings, this loaf ticks all the boxes. It’s the kind of comfort bake that tastes as good as it smells and leaves everyone asking for another slice.
Ingredients
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 cup buttermilk (or 1 cup milk + 1 tbsp vinegar)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Topping:
3 tablespoons melted butter
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk melted butter, oil, and sugar until smooth.
- Beat in eggs one at a time. Add buttermilk and vanilla extract, mixing well.
- In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to wet, stirring just until combined.
- Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool for 10 minutes in the pan, then transfer to a wire rack.
- While warm, brush with melted butter and sprinkle cinnamon sugar evenly on top.
- Cool completely before slicing and serving.