Cinnamon Sugar Donut Sweet Bread

If you love the comforting flavors of cinnamon sugar donuts but want something a bit heartier, this Cinnamon Sugar Donut Sweet Bread is the perfect treat. It combines the soft, moist texture of sweet bread with the warm, spiced sweetness of cinnamon sugar coating. Each bite is buttery, rich, and packed with a delightful swirl of cinnamon and molasses.

I love making this bread when I’m craving something cozy yet simple to prepare. It’s a great addition to a breakfast spread, a sweet afternoon snack, or even a comforting dessert. The best part? The entire loaf gets dipped in melted butter and rolled in cinnamon sugar, just like a donut. This creates a crisp, flavorful coating that makes every slice irresistibly delicious.

The Perfect Blend of Sweetness and Spice

This bread has just the right balance of sweetness and spice. The cinnamon swirl running through the soft, tender crumb adds warmth, while the outer coating of cinnamon sugar gives it a classic donut-like crunch. The use of buttermilk keeps the loaf extra moist, ensuring that it stays soft and fluffy with every slice.

What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to create a beautifully swirled loaf. The process of layering and swirling the batter gives each slice a stunning marbled effect, making it just as visually appealing as it is delicious. Whether served warm or at room temperature, this cinnamon sugar donut bread is guaranteed to be a hit with family and friends.

Ingredients for Cinnamon Sugar Donut Sweet Bread

To make this irresistible Cinnamon Sugar Donut Sweet Bread, you’ll need simple pantry staples that come together beautifully for a soft, flavorful loaf.

For the Bread:

• 1/4 cup canola oil – Keeps the bread moist and tender.
• 1/4 cup softened butter – Adds rich flavor and a soft texture.
• 1 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the bread perfectly.
• 2 eggs (room temperature) – Helps create a light and fluffy texture.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the warmth and sweetness of the bread.
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour – Provides structure to the bread.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder – Helps the bread rise for a soft crumb.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
• 1/2 cup buttermilk (or 1/2 cup milk + 1/2 teaspoon white vinegar) – Adds a subtle tang and keeps the bread moist.
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon – Infuses warmth and spice.
• 1/2 teaspoon molasses – Deepens the flavor and adds a hint of caramelized sweetness.

For the Coating:

• 1/2 cup melted butter – Helps the cinnamon sugar mixture stick to the loaf.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar – Creates a sweet and crunchy coating.
• 1/4 cup brown sugar – Adds depth of flavor and caramel notes.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Gives the coating its signature warm, spiced flavor.

How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Donut Sweet Bread

Making this sweet bread is simple, and the result is a deliciously soft loaf coated in a crunchy cinnamon sugar mixture. Follow these steps to achieve the perfect cinnamon swirl and a golden, donut-like crust.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a light-colored loaf pan with non-stick cooking spray or butter. Set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Batter

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the canola oil, softened butter, and granulated sugar until smooth and well combined. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, stirring until the mixture is light and creamy.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk, stirring until a smooth batter forms. Scrape the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is well incorporated.

Step 3: Make the Cinnamon Swirl

In a small bowl, transfer 1/2 cup of the batter. Add the cinnamon and molasses, stirring until fully combined. This will create a rich, spiced swirl inside the bread.

Step 4: Layer and Swirl the Batter

Pour half of the plain batter into the prepared loaf pan. Spoon half of the cinnamon batter in small dollops over the plain batter. Repeat with the remaining plain batter, then top with the rest of the cinnamon batter.

Using a butter knife, gently swirl the two batters together to create a marbled effect. Be careful not to overmix, as you want distinct swirls.

Step 5: Bake the Bread

Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the loaf—if it comes out with a few moist crumbs, the bread is ready.

Step 6: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Coating

While the bread is baking, prepare the coating. Pour melted butter into a shallow dish. In another shallow dish, mix granulated sugar, brown sugar, and cinnamon.

Step 7: Coat the Bread

Once the bread is baked, allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before loosening the edges and carefully removing it. It should be warm but not too hot to handle.

Dip each side of the loaf into the melted butter, ensuring an even coat. Then, press the loaf into the cinnamon sugar mixture, covering all sides. Spoon extra melted butter over the edges for added crispiness.

Step 8: Slice and Serve

Slice the loaf into pieces and serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy the rich, donut-like flavor with a cup of coffee or tea!

How Long to Bake Cinnamon Sugar Donut Sweet Bread

Baking time is crucial to achieving the perfect texture—moist on the inside with a lightly crisp, golden crust. The total baking time for this bread is 45-50 minutes at 350°F (175°C). However, the exact time may vary based on your oven and the type of loaf pan used.

Baking Time Guidelines:

• Glass or Dark Metal Loaf Pan – May require an additional 5 minutes of baking time. Check for doneness at 50 minutes.
• Light-Colored Metal Loaf Pan – Typically bakes within 45-50 minutes.
• Smaller Loaf Pans (Mini Loaves) – Reduce the baking time to 25-30 minutes and check for doneness.

To test if the bread is fully baked, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out with just a few moist crumbs, it’s ready. If there’s wet batter, bake for an additional 5 minutes and check again.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have leftovers, don’t worry—this bread stays soft and delicious for days when stored properly. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

Room Temperature Storage:

• Store the cooled bread in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap.
• Keep it in a cool, dry place for up to 3 days.

Refrigerator Storage:

• Wrap the bread in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container.
• Store in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• To serve, let it come to room temperature or warm it slightly in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.

Freezer Storage:

• Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then place them in a ziplock bag or airtight container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.
• To thaw, leave at room temperature for 1-2 hours or microwave for 20-30 seconds.

Tips for the Best Cinnamon Sugar Donut Sweet Bread

Want to make sure your bread turns out perfectly every time? Follow these simple tips:

1. Use Room Temperature Ingredients

• Eggs and buttermilk should be at room temperature for a smoother batter and better texture.

2. Don’t Overmix the Batter

• Stir just until combined to keep the bread soft and tender. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf.

3. Get the Swirl Just Right

• Use a butter knife to swirl the batter gently—too much mixing will blend the layers instead of creating a distinct marbled effect.

4. Coat the Bread While It’s Warm

• The melted butter and cinnamon sugar stick best when the loaf is still slightly warm. This ensures an even, donut-like coating.

5. Add Nuts for Extra Crunch

• If you love a bit of texture, add chopped pecans or walnuts to the cinnamon batter for extra crunch.

6. Serve It Fresh for the Best Flavor

• This bread is best enjoyed the same day it’s made. The cinnamon sugar coating stays crisp, and the inside remains soft and fluffy.

This recipe is simple yet indulgent, bringing the best parts of a cinnamon sugar donut into a homemade sweet bread. Whether you enjoy it with coffee in the morning or as a dessert, every bite is packed with cozy, spiced flavor.

Cinnamon Sugar Donut Sweet Bread

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This Cinnamon Sugar Donut Sweet Bread brings the flavors of a classic cinnamon sugar donut into a moist, tender loaf. With a delicious swirl of cinnamon and a buttery sugar coating, this bread is perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon treat!

• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: 1 hour 15 minutes 1x

Ingredients

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For the Bread:

• ¼ cup canola oil
• ¼ cup softened butter
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 eggs (room temperature)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup buttermilk (or ½ cup milk + ½ teaspoon white vinegar)
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon molasses

For the Coating:

• ½ cup melted butter
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a light-colored loaf pan with non-stick cooking spray and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, mix canola oil, softened butter, and sugar until well combined.
3. Add eggs and vanilla extract, stirring until smooth.
4. Gradually add flour, baking powder, and salt, alternating with buttermilk, and mix until a smooth batter forms. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to incorporate everything evenly.
5. Transfer ½ cup of batter to a separate bowl and stir in cinnamon and molasses to create the cinnamon batter.
6. Pour half of the plain batter into the loaf pan. Drop half of the cinnamon batter in small dollops on top. Repeat with the remaining plain and cinnamon batters.
7. Use a butter knife to swirl the batters together, creating a marbled effect.
8. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
9. Let the bread cool for 10 minutes, then remove it from the pan while still warm.
10. Dip each side of the loaf in melted butter, then coat generously in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
11. Slice and serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy!

Notes

• For extra crunch, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts into the cinnamon batter.
• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freeze individual slices for up to 2 months and reheat when ready to serve.
• If making muffins, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 18-22 minutes instead of using a loaf pan.

• Author: Layla
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I Make This Bread Without Buttermilk?

Yes! If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can easily make a substitute. Mix ½ cup of milk with ½ teaspoon of white vinegar or lemon juice, then let it sit for 5 minutes before using it in the recipe. This will create the same tangy effect as buttermilk, helping to keep the bread soft and moist.

2. Can I Use a Different Type of Oil?

Absolutely. While canola oil is ideal for its neutral flavor, you can substitute it with:

• Vegetable oil – A great alternative with a mild taste.
• Melted coconut oil – Adds a slight coconut flavor but works well in this recipe.
• Olive oil – Can be used, but it may slightly alter the flavor.

If using coconut oil, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature to prevent the oil from solidifying in the batter.

3. Why Is My Bread Dense Instead of Light and Fluffy?

A few common reasons could cause your bread to turn out dense:

• Overmixing the batter – Stir just until combined. Overmixing develops gluten, leading to a dense texture.
• Not measuring flour correctly – Always spoon and level the flour instead of scooping it directly from the bag, which can lead to too much flour.
• Using old baking powder – Ensure your baking powder is fresh for proper leavening.

4. Can I Make This Bread Into Muffins Instead?

Yes! To turn this recipe into muffins:

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it lightly.
• Fill each muffin cup 2/3 full with batter.
• Swirl in the cinnamon mixture as directed.
• Bake for 18-22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
• Once cooled, dip each muffin in melted butter and roll in the cinnamon-sugar mixture for a delicious donut-like coating.

These muffins are perfect for portion control and easy snacking!