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A delicious loaf of cinnamon donut bread topped with cinnamon sugar.

Homemade Cinnamon Donut Bread

A delightful twist on traditional baked goods, this cinnamon donut bread combines rich flavors of cinnamon and sugar in a soft, tender loaf, perfect for breakfast or dessert.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Course Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 10 slices
Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the bread

  • 1/4 cup neutral oil, such as canola or vegetable oil
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened to creamy perfection
  • 1 cup granulated sugar adding a rich sweetness
  • 2 large eggs room temperature for a smooth batter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract providing a comforting aroma
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour ensuring a tender crumb
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder for lift and lightness
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine salt bringing balance to the flavors
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk adding moisture and tang
  • 1/2 cup reserved loaf batter for the delicious cinnamon swirl
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon filling the loaf with warmth
  • 1/2 teaspoon molasses enhancing the richness

For the topping

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted for brushing
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar for the coating
  • 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar deepening the sweetness
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon again for that beloved flavor

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan, line with parchment paper if desired.
  • In a large bowl, beat together the neutral oil, softened butter, and granulated sugar until creamy.
  • Mix in the eggs and vanilla extract until smooth.
  • Gently stir in the all-purpose flour, baking powder, fine salt, and buttermilk until a thick batter forms, ensuring not to overmix.
  • Reserve about 1/2 cup of this batter in a separate bowl and stir in the ground cinnamon and molasses.

Assembly and Baking

  • Spread half of the plain batter in the loaf pan, dollop half of the cinnamon batter over it, add the remaining plain batter, then top with the rest of the cinnamon batter.
  • Gently swirl the two batters together with a knife.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, until a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs.
  • Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes.

Finishing Touch

  • Mix the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a shallow dish.
  • Brush the warm loaf with melted butter and coat with the sugar mix.
  • Let the loaf rest for 10 minutes, then slice and serve.

Notes

For best results, use room temperature ingredients and avoid overmixing. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.
Keyword Baking Recipe, Cinnamon Donut Bread, Comfort Food, homemade bread, Quick Bread