Cinnamon Donut Bread is a warm, tasty treat that blends the joy of donuts with soft, moist bread. In this easy recipe, you’ll find simple steps to make a delightful loaf that bursts with cinnamon flavor. Imagine dipping a slice in your morning coffee or enjoying it as a sweet snack. Join me, and let’s make the perfect Cinnamon Donut Bread that will impress your family and friends!
Ingredients
To make delicious Cinnamon Donut Bread, you will need the following ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– ½ teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 2 large eggs
– ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– ½ cup brown sugar, packed
– Additional ingredients for topping:
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
These ingredients create a sweet and soft bread. The flour gives structure, while sugar adds sweetness. Baking powder helps the bread rise. Ground cinnamon gives that warm, cozy flavor we love. Salt enhances all the flavors. Milk adds moisture, and eggs help bind everything. Unsalted butter adds richness, and vanilla brings a lovely aroma.
The topping of cinnamon and sugar adds a sweet crunch that makes this bread special. You can also adjust the spices to suit your taste. Want more cinnamon? Just add it! Feel free to get creative with the ingredients. Enjoy the process of making this delightful bread!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the Oven
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial. A hot oven helps the bread rise nicely. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with cooking spray or butter. This will keep the bread from sticking.
Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Whisk these dry ingredients well. This ensures that everything mixes evenly.
Mix the Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together 1 cup of milk, 2 large eggs, ½ cup of melted unsalted butter, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix until you see a smooth blend. This will add flavor and moisture to your bread.
Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Now, pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Gently stir it with a spatula or wooden spoon. Only mix until just combined. A few lumps are okay; they will bake out. Overmixing can make your bread tough.
Prepare the Cinnamon-Sugar Topping
In a small bowl, mix together ½ cup of packed brown sugar, 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon, and 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar. Stir well until everything blends evenly. This topping adds a sweet crunch to your bread.
Layer the Batter and Topping
Pour half of the batter into your greased loaf pan. Smooth it out with a spatula. Then, sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over this layer. Carefully add the rest of the batter on top, covering the first layer completely. Finish by sprinkling the remaining cinnamon-sugar topping on top.
Bake the Bread
Place the loaf pan in your preheated oven. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes. To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, your bread is ready!
Cool and Serve
Once baked, take it out of the oven. Let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer the bread to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice it up and enjoy!
Tips & Tricks
How to Achieve the Perfect Texture
To get that soft, fluffy texture, do not overmix your batter. Mix until just combined. A few lumps are fine. Letting your batter rest for 10 minutes can also help. This allows the flour to absorb moisture better. For a lighter loaf, try using room temperature ingredients. This helps the batter blend more easily.
Storing Leftover Bread
Once your bread cools, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. This keeps it fresh for a few days. You can also place it in an airtight container. Store it at room temperature. If you want to keep it longer, freeze the slices. Make sure to wrap each slice in plastic wrap for best results.
Serving Suggestions
Slice your warm cinnamon donut bread and serve it on a pretty platter. Dust with powdered sugar for a nice touch. You could also spread a little butter on each slice. This makes it even richer and tastier. Add a scoop of ice cream for a sweet treat at dessert time.
Pairing Ideas
Pair your bread with coffee or tea for a cozy snack. A warm cup of chai or a latte works well. You can also enjoy it with fresh fruit, like berries or bananas. If you like, drizzle some honey on top for extra sweetness. These flavors really complement the cinnamon taste.
Variations
Adding Nuts or Chocolate Chips
You can easily add nuts or chocolate chips to your bread. Walnuts or pecans work well. Just fold in half a cup before baking. If you love chocolate, use semi-sweet chips. They add a sweet surprise in every bite.
Using Whole Wheat Flour
Want a healthier twist? Swap some all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour. Use one cup of whole wheat and one cup of all-purpose flour. This adds fiber and a nutty flavor. It keeps the bread moist and tasty.
Vegan or Dairy-Free Substitutes
To make this bread vegan, replace the milk with almond or oat milk. Use flax eggs instead of regular eggs. Mix one tablespoon of flaxseed meal with three tablespoons of water for each egg. This will give you that perfect texture without any animal products.
Flavor Enhancements (e.g., nutmeg, vanilla bean)
For extra flavor, add nutmeg or vanilla bean. Just a pinch of nutmeg makes a warm spice. If you have a vanilla bean, scrape it into the wet mixture. It gives a rich, sweet taste that pairs well with cinnamon.
Storage Info
Best Practices for Storing Cinnamon Donut Bread
To keep your cinnamon donut bread fresh, store it in an airtight container. This helps prevent it from drying out. If you do not have one, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped bread in a cool, dry spot in your kitchen. Avoid direct sunlight and heat to maintain its taste and texture.
How Long Does It Last?
Cinnamon donut bread can last up to four days at room temperature. If you keep it in the fridge, it may last up to a week. However, refrigeration can change the bread’s texture, making it less soft. For the best taste, eat it within the first few days.
Freezing Instructions
To freeze your cinnamon donut bread, slice it first. Wrap each slice in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. This way, you can grab a slice whenever you want. It can last about three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it in the fridge or at room temperature. You can also reheat slices in the microwave for a warm treat.
FAQs
What is Cinnamon Donut Bread?
Cinnamon donut bread is a sweet loaf that tastes like a donut. It has a soft texture and a rich cinnamon flavor. The bread uses simple ingredients like flour, sugar, eggs, and milk. After baking, it gets a cinnamon-sugar topping for extra sweetness. This bread is perfect for breakfast or a snack.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can make this recipe gluten-free. Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Make sure it has xanthan gum to help with texture. The rest of the recipe stays the same. You will still get a tasty result!
How can I tell if the bread is done baking?
Check the bread after 50 minutes. Insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, the bread is ready. If there is batter on the toothpick, bake for five more minutes. Keep checking until it’s done.
Can I use a different type of milk?
Yes, you can use different types of milk. Almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk work well too. Just make sure they are unsweetened to keep the flavor balanced. The bread will still turn out great!
What are some good toppings for cinnamon donut bread?
You can add many toppings! Some favorites are:
– Cream cheese frosting
– Glaze made from powdered sugar and milk
– Chopped nuts or chocolate chips
– Fresh fruit like berries or bananas
Get creative and choose what you like best!
How do I make a glaze for the bread?
To make a simple glaze, mix 1 cup of powdered sugar with 2 tablespoons of milk. Stir until smooth. If you want flavor, add a drop of vanilla extract. Drizzle it over the bread once it has cooled. This adds a sweet touch!
This article covers the key ingredients, steps, and tips for making cinnamon donut bread. You learned how to mix dry and wet ingredients, bake, and layer with toppings. I shared tips for perfect texture, storing, and serving. Finally, I offered variations for different tastes.
Now, it’s your turn to try this easy and tasty recipe. Enjoy making this delightful treat!
