There is something so special about a slow winter morning. The house is quiet and the air is chilly outside. This Cinnamon Donut Bread is the perfect way to wake up. It fills your kitchen with the most amazing bakery scent.
You are going to love how simple this recipe is to make. It delivers all the flavor of a donut without the frying. This is the ultimate comfort food for your family to enjoy together.
Why This Recipe Is a Winner
You will love how this bread tastes exactly like a classic cake donut. It has a tender, buttery crumb that melts in your mouth. You do not need any yeast or special equipment for this recipe.
It is a fantastic option for a cozy winter weekend brunch. Your kids will be asking for second slices before the first is gone. This loaf is budget-friendly and uses simple pantry staples you already have.
Simple Method
Making this bread is truly a breeze for any home cook. You just cream the butter, mix your dry ingredients, and stir in buttermilk. The secret is the crunchy cinnamon-sugar coating added at the very end. Even if you are new to baking, you can master this loaf.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses basic ingredients that create a rich and nostalgic flavor profile.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (for topping)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for topping)
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (for topping)
Step-by-Step
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a standard 9×5 inch loaf pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1 cup of sugar until light and aerated.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and beat until fully incorporated.
- In a separate medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and nutmeg.
- Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in three parts, alternating with the buttermilk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Stir only until combined.
- Transfer the batter to the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean.
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.
- In a shallow dish, whisk together the topping sugar and cinnamon.
- While the bread is still warm, brush the entire exterior with melted butter and roll in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until evenly coated.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve this loaf warm while the coating is still slightly crisp. It pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or cold milk. You can even add a smear of softened butter for extra richness. This is the perfect brunch treat for a lazy Sunday at home.
How to Store Leftovers
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to three days. For longer storage, you can wrap slices tightly and freeze them. Just reheat in the microwave for a few seconds to restore that softness. It makes a wonderful quick breakfast for busy mornings.
Tips for Best Results
- Use a toothpick to check for doneness so it stays moist.
- Don’t overmix the batter once you add the flour to keep it tender.
- Make sure your butter is truly softened for the best texture.
- Brush the melted butter while the bread is still warm for better sticking.
- This cinnamon-sugar coating is the best part, so coat it generously!
- Always use real buttermilk for that signature tangy donut flavor.
- For a holiday twist, add a pinch of cardamom to the sugar.
Ways to Switch It Up
- Add a handful of chocolate chips for a sweet surprise.
- Stir in chopped pecans or walnuts for a bit of extra crunch.
- Use a maple glaze instead of sugar for a different flavor twist.
- Swap the nutmeg for pumpkin spice during the autumn months.
Common Questions
Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
You can make a quick substitute by adding one tablespoon of lemon juice to milk. Let it sit for five minutes before using. This ensures your Cinnamon Donut Bread stays light and fluffy.
How do I know when the bread is finished baking?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf around the 45-minute mark. If it comes out clean or with a few dry crumbs, it is done. Avoid overbaking to keep that cake-like texture perfect.
Will my kids enjoy this recipe?
Absolutely, this is a very kid-approved recipe because it tastes just like a treat. The sweet coating and soft middle make it a favorite for all ages. It is a fun weekend activity to bake together.
I hope this cozy bread brings a little extra warmth to your winter mornings. It is such a joy to share these simple, sweet moments with your family. Give it a try and enjoy every buttery bite!
— Lidia
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large eg g
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all -purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon sal t
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 cup buttermil k
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (for topping)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for topping)
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a standard 9x5 inch loaf pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1 cup of sugar until light and aerated.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and beat until fully incorporated.
- In a separate medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and nutmeg.
- Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in three parts, alternating with the buttermilk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Stir only until combined.
- Transfer the batter to the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean.
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.
- In a shallow dish, whisk together the topping sugar and cinnamon.
- While the bread is still warm, brush the entire exterior with melted butter and roll in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until evenly coated.
