A golden-brown loaf of Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread with a crispy cinnamon-sugar coating, sliced to reveal its soft, fluffy interior. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a sweet snack.

If you love the taste of cinnamon sugar donuts but want the ease of baking a loaf instead of frying, Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread is the perfect solution. This delicious quick bread combines the soft, moist texture of a classic donut with a crunchy cinnamon-sugar topping, giving you all the flavor of a bakery-style treat—without the hassle of deep frying.

What Is Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread?

Cinnamon sugar donut bread is a quick bread, meaning it’s made without yeast and instead relies on baking powder for leavening. The batter is simple to mix, requiring only a few pantry staples like flour, sugar, butter, eggs, and milk. Once baked, the bread is brushed with melted butter and coated in a generous layer of cinnamon sugar, mimicking the irresistible flavor of a fresh cinnamon sugar donut.

A Treat for Any Occasion

This bread is versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways:

Breakfast: Serve it warm with coffee or tea for a cozy morning treat.
Snack: Perfect as an afternoon pick-me-up.

Dessert: Pair it with ice cream or a drizzle of caramel for an indulgent twist.
Gift Idea: Wrap it up for a thoughtful homemade present.

Why You’ll Love It

No yeast required – easy to make in under an hour.

Soft and moist inside, crunchy outside – a perfect balance of textures.
Customizable – add nuts, chocolate chips, or a cream cheese swirl.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re a fan of cinnamon sugar donuts but don’t want the hassle of deep-frying, this Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread is about to become your new favorite treat! It delivers the same irresistible flavor and texture of a classic donut—soft, moist, and perfectly sweet—with a crunchy cinnamon-sugar coating, all in an easy-to-make loaf.

1. No Yeast, No Fuss!

Unlike traditional donut recipes, this bread requires no yeast or proofing time. It’s a quick bread, meaning you only need simple ingredients, a mixing bowl, and an oven—no waiting around for the dough to rise!

2. Soft & Moist with a Crispy Cinnamon Sugar Coating

The inside of this bread is light, fluffy, and moist, thanks to the perfect balance of butter, milk, and eggs. The outside is coated with buttery cinnamon sugar, giving you that signature donut-like crunch in every bite.

3. Perfect for Any Time of Day

Breakfast: Pairs perfectly with coffee or tea.

Snack: A delicious afternoon treat.
Dessert: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

4. Customizable to Your Taste

Add chocolate chips, nuts, or a cinnamon swirl for extra flavor.

Make it healthier by using whole wheat flour or a sugar substitute.
Try it gluten-free with almond or oat flour.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread requires simple pantry staples, making it an easy and convenient treat to whip up anytime. Below is a breakdown of the essential ingredients and possible substitutions for different dietary preferences.

1. Dry Ingredients

These ingredients form the base of the bread, giving it structure and texture.

All-Purpose Flour (2 cups) – The primary dry ingredient that provides structure. You can substitute whole wheat flour for a healthier version or gluten-free flour for a gluten-free alternative.
Baking Powder (2 teaspoons) – Acts as a leavening agent to help the bread rise and achieve a light texture.

Salt (½ teaspoon) – Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
Ground Cinnamon (1 teaspoon) – The star spice that gives the bread its signature warmth and donut-like flavor.
Nutmeg (¼ teaspoon, optional) – Adds an extra layer of depth and warmth, similar to classic bakery donuts.

2. Wet Ingredients

These ingredients add moisture, richness, and flavor to the bread.

Granulated Sugar (¾ cup) – Sweetens the bread. You can also use brown sugar for a deeper, caramel-like flavor.
Unsalted Butter (½ cup, melted) – Provides richness and keeps the bread moist. You can substitute with vegetable oil or coconut oil for a dairy-free option.

Eggs (2 large) – Give structure and help the bread rise properly. For an egg-free version, use applesauce (¼ cup per egg) or a flaxseed egg.
Milk (¾ cup) – Adds moisture and helps create a soft texture. You can use buttermilk for a slightly tangy flavor or substitute almond, oat, or soy milk for a dairy-free version.
Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon) – Enhances the overall flavor with a subtle sweetness.

3. Cinnamon Sugar Topping

This is what gives the bread its signature crispy, sugary coating.

Melted Butter (¼ cup) – Helps the cinnamon sugar stick to the bread.
Granulated Sugar (½ cup) – Creates the sweet, crunchy coating.

Ground Cinnamon (1 tablespoon) – Provides the perfect warm, spiced flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread is incredibly simple, requiring just a few steps from mixing the batter to applying the signature cinnamon sugar coating. Follow this detailed guide to ensure your bread turns out soft, moist, and delicious every time.

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients & Preheat the Oven

Before you begin, make sure you have all your ingredients measured and ready to go. This makes the process smoother and prevents mistakes.

Preheat the oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional, for extra warmth)

Set aside.

This mixture forms the base of your bread, giving it structure while ensuring a light and fluffy texture.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, combine:
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup melted butter

Whisk until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Add 2 eggs, one at a time, whisking well after each addition.
Stir in ¾ cup milk and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until fully combined.

This wet mixture is what keeps the bread moist and flavorful.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, stirring gently with a spatula or wooden spoon.
Mix just until combined—do not overmix, as this can make the bread dense.

The batter should be thick but pourable. If it seems too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen it.

Step 5: Bake the Bread

Pour the batter into the greased loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Checking for Doneness:

The bread should have a golden-brown top and a slightly firm feel.
If the toothpick has wet batter, bake for another 5-10 minutes and check again.

Step 6: Cool the Bread

Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes.

After 10 minutes, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before adding the topping.

Cooling helps the bread set and prevents it from falling apart when you apply the cinnamon sugar coating.

Step 7: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Coating

While the bread is cooling, make the delicious cinnamon sugar topping.

Ingredients for the Topping:

¼ cup melted butter
½ cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

Instructions:

In a small bowl, mix sugar and cinnamon together.
In a separate bowl, melt ¼ cup butter and set aside.

Step 8: Coat the Bread with Cinnamon Sugar

Once the bread is slightly warm but not hot, brush the entire loaf with melted butter.

Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the bread, making sure to coat the top and sides evenly.
For extra crunch, you can roll the loaf in the cinnamon sugar mixture if desired.

This step gives the bread its classic donut-like coating, adding a sweet and crunchy texture.

Step 9: Slice and Serve!

Once fully coated, let the bread rest for 5-10 minutes to allow the cinnamon sugar to set.
Slice into thick pieces and enjoy warm or at room temperature.

Serving Suggestions:

Pair with coffee, tea, or hot chocolate.

Spread with butter, cream cheese, or Nutella for extra flavor.
Toast slices for a crispy, caramelized texture.

Bonus: Storage Tips

To keep your Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread fresh:

At Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
In the Refrigerator: Keeps for up to a week—just warm it slightly before serving.
Freezing Option: Wrap slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.

Tips for the Best Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread

Want to make the perfect Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread? Follow these expert tips to ensure your loaf turns out soft, moist, and full of flavor!

1. Measure Ingredients Correctly

Use a kitchen scale or the spoon and level method for flour. Too much flour can make the bread dry and dense.
When measuring baking powder, use a level teaspoon to avoid over-rising.

2. Don’t Overmix the Batter

Stir until just combined—overmixing can lead to a tough, dense texture.
If the batter seems thick, add a splash of milk to loosen it slightly.

3. Use Room Temperature Ingredients

Eggs, milk, and butter should be at room temperature for a smooth, evenly mixed batter.

This helps the bread rise properly and ensures a soft texture.

4. Check for Doneness Correctly

Oven temperatures vary, so always test with a toothpick inserted into the center. It should come out clean or with a few crumbs.
If the top browns too quickly, tent the loaf with aluminum foil during the last 10 minutes.

5. Don’t Skip the Cinnamon Sugar Coating

Brush the loaf with melted butter while it’s still warm to help the cinnamon sugar stick better.
For extra crunch, double dip by coating twice!

6. Keep It Moist

Store the bread in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out.

If it starts to dry, warm slices in the microwave for 10 seconds to soften.

Variations & Customizations

Looking to switch things up? Here are some fun variations to make this recipe your own!

1. Healthier Versions

Whole Wheat Flour: Substitute half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.

Lower Sugar: Reduce sugar by ¼ cup or use honey or maple syrup as a natural sweetener.
Dairy-Free: Swap butter for coconut oil and use almond or oat milk instead of regular milk.

2. Flavor Enhancements

Apple Cinnamon Donut Bread: Stir in ½ cup of grated apple for a fruity twist.

Pumpkin Spice Version: Replace ¼ cup of milk with pumpkin puree and add ½ teaspoon pumpkin spice.
Chocolate Chip Addition: Mix in ½ cup mini chocolate chips for a chocolatey touch.

3. Different Baking Methods

Muffins: Divide batter into a muffin tin and bake at 350°F for 18-22 minutes.

Mini Loaves: Use mini loaf pans and bake for 25-30 minutes.
Bundt Cake: Pour batter into a greased bundt pan and bake for 40-50 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread is delicious on its own, but here are some creative ways to serve it:

1. Classic Enjoyment

Serve warm with coffee, tea, or hot chocolate.
Toast slices for a crispy, caramelized edge.

2. Spread It On

Add a layer of butter or cinnamon honey butter.
Spread with cream cheese, peanut butter, or Nutella.

3. Dessert Upgrade

Drizzle with caramel sauce or maple syrup.

Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a warm-and-cold contrast.

4. Special Occasions

Use as a base for French toast for an indulgent breakfast.
Serve with fresh fruit and whipped cream for brunch.

Storage & Freezing Instructions

To keep your Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread fresh, follow these storage tips!

1. Storing at Room Temperature

Keep the bread in an airtight container or wrapped in plastic wrap.
Store at room temperature for up to 3 days.

2. Storing in the Refrigerator

If you need to keep it longer, store it in the fridge for up to a week.
Reheat slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds before serving.

3. Freezing Instructions

Whole Loaf: Wrap the cooled loaf in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months.

Sliced Option: Slice the loaf, place parchment paper between slices, and store in a freezer-safe bag.

4. How to Reheat

From the Freezer: Let it thaw at room temperature or microwave individual slices for 30 seconds.
For a Freshly Baked Feel: Warm slices in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

1. Why is my donut bread dense?

Overmixing the batter can lead to a dense and tough texture. Stir only until ingredients are combined.
Too much flour can also cause denseness—measure accurately using the spoon-and-level method.

2. Can I make this bread without eggs?

Yes! Try one of these egg replacements:

¼ cup applesauce per egg
1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water per egg

3. How do I keep the cinnamon sugar from falling off?

Brush the bread with melted butter while it’s still warm so the sugar sticks better.

Try double-dipping for an extra thick coating.

4. Can I use almond or oat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, but results will vary.
Almond flour makes the bread more moist and dense.

Oat flour will make it a bit crumbly but still delicious.

5. How do I make this bread dairy-free?

Use coconut oil or dairy-free butter instead of regular butter.
Swap almond, oat, or soy milk for regular milk.

6. Can I turn this into muffins?

Yes! Pour the batter into a muffin tin and bake at 350°F for 18-22 minutes.

7. How do I prevent my bread from drying out?

Store in an airtight container and avoid overbaking.
Add a piece of bread in the storage container to help retain moisture.

8. Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake it a day in advance and store it wrapped at room temperature.
Reheat slices in the oven for a just-baked taste.

Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread

Author: Hamza

Print Recipe

Description

This Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread is a soft, moist, and buttery quick bread coated in a sweet cinnamon-sugar topping, just like a classic cinnamon sugar donut! It requires no yeast, comes together in one bowl, and bakes up perfectly in under an hour. With its warm, spiced aroma and crunchy cinnamon coating, this bread is perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. Enjoy it with a cup of coffee, serve it as a brunch treat, or gift it to friends and family—it’s a simple yet irresistible homemade delight!

Ingredients

Scale

Bread

2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups (300 g) granulated sugar

2 teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon kosher salt
1 ¼ cups (306 g) whole milk

1 large egg, room temperature
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1 tablespoon vanilla extract

Spiced Sugar Coating

¼ cup (½ stick / 57 g) unsalted butter, melted
½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg

Instructions

- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Spray an 8 ½ x 4 ½-inch loaf pan with nonstick cooking spray.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla until well combined.
Pour the milk mixture into the flour mixture and stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; the batter should be a bit runny.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly.
Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the bread comes out with a few crumbs and the top is golden brown.
Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully remove the bread from the pan and place it on a large piece of parchment paper.
While the bread is still warm, gently brush the entire surface with the melted butter for the topping.
In a small bowl, mix together granulated sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg for the topping.
Evenly sprinkle the sugar and spice mixture over the butter-coated surface of the bread. Turn the loaf as needed in order to coat all sides of the bread. (You may have some left over, this can be saved and reused.)

Notes

1. Measuring Ingredients Correctly

Use the spoon and level method for flour to prevent adding too much, which can make the bread dry.
Baking is a science—accurate measurements ensure the best results!

2. Don’t Overmix the Batter

Overmixing can make the bread dense and chewy instead of light and fluffy.
Stir only until the flour disappears—lumps are okay!

3. Use Room Temperature Ingredients

This helps the batter mix smoothly and bake evenly.
Take eggs, milk, and butter out 30 minutes before baking.

4. Baking Time May Vary

Oven temperatures can differ, so check your bread at 45 minutes with a toothpick test.
If it’s browning too quickly, cover it with foil for the last 10 minutes.

5. The Cinnamon Sugar Coating is Key!

Brush the bread with melted butter while warm so the cinnamon sugar sticks well.
For an extra crunchy topping, double-dip the bread in the cinnamon sugar mixture!

6. Storing & Freezing

Store at room temperature for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Freeze for up to 3 months—just thaw and warm before serving!