Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread Recipe 5 Secrets To Irresistible Homemade Bliss

Tired of craving donuts at breakfast but not wanting to deep-fry first thing in the morning? This Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread Recipe transforms all those beloved donut flavors into an incredibly moist, tender loaf that’s as easy as mixing a few bowls and sliding a pan into the oven. You get that irresistible cinnamon-sugar coating, the pillowy-soft crumb, and the sweet satisfaction of a donut shop treat all without a deep fryer or complicated techniques.

Hi there, I’m Simon, and this recipe holds a special place in my heart. It was actually born from a weekend experiment with Megan Carter, our pastry genius. We were brainstorming ways to capture the magic of cinnamon sugar donuts in a more approachable format for busy mornings. After several attempts (including one catastrophic version that somehow turned into a dense brick), Megan cracked the code. She discovered that swirling cinnamon sugar through the batter and coating the loaf after baking creates those iconic donut flavors without any of the frying fuss. Jackson Reed wandered in during our testing and declared it “the best breakfast bread he’d ever tasted,” which is high praise from someone who usually sticks to savory. Olivia Brooks captured the moment we pulled the golden, sugar-crusted loaf from the oven, and that photo still makes me hungry every time I see it.

In this comprehensive guide, you’ll discover why this Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread Recipe works so brilliantly, how to select the perfect ingredients, detailed step-by-step instructions, pro tips for bakery-quality results, creative flavor variations, and answers to all your baking questions.

Why This Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread Recipe Works

This isn’t just another quick bread it’s a carefully engineered recipe that delivers authentic donut flavor and texture without the hassle:

• Uses simple pantry staples: Flour, butter, eggs, and basic spices you already have in your cupboard create bakery-worthy results without specialty ingredients.
• No yeast, no waiting: This is a quick bread that uses baking powder for rise, meaning you can go from craving to eating in under 90 minutes with no proving time.
• Foolproof cinnamon swirl: The technique creates gorgeous marbled layers throughout the loaf without complicated folding or the risk of deflating your batter.
• Double cinnamon-sugar treatment: Swirl it inside and coat it outside for maximum donut shop authenticity and flavor in every single bite.
• Stays moist for days: The combination of sour cream and butter creates a tender crumb that doesn’t dry out, making it perfect for meal prep or gift-giving.
• Perfect for any occasion: Serve it warm for breakfast, pack it for brunch gatherings, or enjoy it as an afternoon snack with coffee or tea.

Choosing the Right Ingredients for Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread Recipe

The success of this Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread Recipe depends on using quality ingredients and understanding how each one contributes to the final result.

Best Ingredients for This Recipe

All-purpose flour is your foundation here—it provides just enough structure without making the bread tough. Bread flour is too strong and will create a chewy texture, while cake flour makes it too delicate. Stick with all-purpose for the perfect tender-yet-sturdy crumb.

Full-fat sour cream is the secret to that incredibly moist, tender texture that mimics donuts. The acidity also activates the baking soda for extra lift and creates a fine, soft crumb. Greek yogurt can work in a pinch, but sour cream delivers superior richness.

Unsalted butter gives you control over salt levels and contributes to the rich, buttery flavor reminiscent of cake donuts. It should be softened to room temperature for easy mixing.

Buying Tips

When purchasing cinnamon, freshness matters enormously. Check the date on your jar—cinnamon loses potency after about 6 months. For the best flavor, buy from stores with high turnover or specialty spice shops. Vietnamese or Ceylon cinnamon both work beautifully, each offering slightly different flavor profiles.

For flour, any major brand works well. Store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh and prevent it from absorbing odors. If your flour has been sitting in the pantry for over a year, it’s worth replacing for optimal results.

Choose large eggs for this recipe—they’re the standard size in baking. Eggs should be at room temperature for better incorporation into the batter.

Substitutions

Dairy-free option: Replace sour cream with dairy-free sour cream or coconut cream (the thick part from a chilled can of full-fat coconut milk mixed with 1 tablespoon lemon juice). Use plant-based butter in equal amounts.

Lower sugar: You can reduce the sugar in the batter by up to ¼ cup, though the loaf will be less sweet and slightly less moist. The cinnamon-sugar coating is essential for that donut flavor, so keep that as-is.

Gluten-free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend that contains xanthan gum. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious.

Ingredients & Prep for Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread Recipe

Baking Prep Essentials

Before you begin, bring your eggs, sour cream, and butter to room temperature. This takes about 30-60 minutes on the counter. Room temperature ingredients emulsify better, creating a smoother batter and more even texture. If you’re short on time, place eggs in warm (not hot) water for 5 minutes, and microwave butter for 5-10 seconds until just softened but not melted.

Prepare your loaf pan by thoroughly greasing it with butter or nonstick spray, then lining the bottom and two long sides with parchment paper, leaving overhang. This creates “handles” for easy removal and prevents sticking in the corners.

For the Bread Batter

Dry Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Wet Ingredients:

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 cup full-fat sour cream
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

For the Cinnamon Sugar Swirl

• ⅓ cup granulated sugar
• 1½ tablespoons ground cinnamon

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

Pantry Staples

Keep these baking essentials on hand: Pure vanilla extract (not imitation—the flavor difference is noticeable), fresh baking powder and baking soda (replace every 6 months), quality cinnamon, and large eggs. Having these basics ready means you can bake this bread whenever a craving strikes.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread Recipe

Pre-Baking Prep for Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread Recipe

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Position the rack in the center of the oven for even heat distribution.
2. Prepare the pan: Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan generously with butter or nonstick spray. Line with parchment paper, leaving overhang on the long sides. Set aside.
3. Make the swirl mixture: In a small bowl, mix together ⅓ cup sugar and 1½ tablespoons cinnamon. Set aside.
4. Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and 1 teaspoon cinnamon until well combined. Set aside.

Baking Method for Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread Recipe

1. Cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl, using an electric mixer on medium speed, beat the softened butter and 1 cup sugar together for 3-4 minutes until light and fluffy. This incorporates air for a lighter texture.
2. Add eggs: Beat in eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Scrape down the bowl between additions to ensure even mixing.
3. Incorporate sour cream: Add sour cream and vanilla extract. Mix on low speed until just combined. The mixture may look slightly curdled—this is normal.
4. Add dry ingredients: Add the flour mixture in three additions, mixing on low speed just until no flour streaks remain. Do not overmix, as this develops gluten and creates a tough texture.
5. Create the swirl: Pour half the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar swirl mixture evenly over the batter. Pour the remaining batter on top and smooth gently. Sprinkle the remaining swirl mixture over the top. Use a butter knife to gently swirl through the batter in a zigzag pattern, creating marbled layers. Don’t over-swirl or you’ll lose the definition.
6. Bake: Place in preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs (not wet batter). The top should be golden brown and spring back when gently pressed.
7. Apply coating: While the bread is baking, prepare the coating by mixing ½ cup sugar and 1 tablespoon cinnamon in a shallow bowl. Melt 4 tablespoons butter.

Doneness Check for Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread Recipe

The bread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter. The internal temperature should read 200-205°F on an instant-read thermometer. The top will be golden brown and feel springy to the touch. If the top is browning too quickly but the center isn’t done, tent loosely with aluminum foil for the final 10-15 minutes of baking.

Finishing the Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread Recipe

Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Use the parchment paper handles to lift it out onto a wire rack. While still warm (but not hot), brush the entire surface generously with melted butter, then immediately roll or press all sides in the cinnamon-sugar mixture. The butter acts as glue for the sugar coating. Let cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing—this allows the structure to set so slices don’t crumble.

Pro Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread Recipe

Avoiding Dense or Dry Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread Recipe

Don’t overmix the batter: Once you add flour, mix only until you can’t see flour streaks anymore. Overmixing develops gluten strands, resulting in a tough, chewy texture instead of tender crumb. If mixing by hand, use a rubber spatula with gentle folding motions.

Measure flour correctly: Too much flour is the number one cause of dry quick breads. Use the spoon-and-level method: fluff the flour in its container, spoon it into your measuring cup, and level with a straight edge. Don’t scoop directly with the cup or pack it down.

Watch your oven temperature: Oven thermometers are inexpensive and invaluable. Many ovens run hot or cold by 25°F or more, dramatically affecting baking times and results. An oven that’s too hot creates a domed, cracked top and dry edges.

Tool Recommendations for Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread Recipe

• 9×5-inch metal loaf pan: Metal conducts heat better than glass, creating a more evenly baked loaf with better browning. Glass pans work but may require 5-10 minutes additional baking time.
• Electric mixer: A stand mixer or hand mixer makes creaming butter and sugar effortless and ensures proper incorporation of air.
• Instant-read thermometer: Takes the guesswork out of doneness—aim for 200-205°F internal temperature.
• Parchment paper: Creates foolproof release and makes cleanup a breeze.
• Pastry brush: Essential for evenly applying melted butter for the coating.

Storage & Reheating Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread Recipe

Store the bread tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. The high butter and sour cream content keeps it moist.

For longer storage: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight at room temperature, still wrapped, to prevent condensation from making it soggy.

To refresh: Warm individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or toast lightly. For the whole loaf, wrap in foil and warm in a 300°F oven for 10-15 minutes.

Pro tip: The cinnamon-sugar coating stays crunchiest on day one but softens into a delicious glazed texture over the following days—both versions are equally delicious, just different.

Flavor Variations for Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread Recipe

Chocolate Chip Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread Recipe

Fold 1 cup of chocolate chips into the batter after mixing in the flour. Mini chocolate chips distribute more evenly, while regular chips create dramatic chocolate pockets. The combination of cinnamon, sugar, and melted chocolate mimics a chocolate donut with cinnamon sugar coating.

Maple Glaze Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread Recipe

Skip the cinnamon-sugar coating and instead whisk together 1 cup powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup, and 1-2 tablespoons milk until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled loaf for a maple-donut-inspired variation. The glaze adds beautiful visual appeal and concentrated sweetness.

Apple Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread Recipe

Fold 1 cup of finely diced apple (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best) tossed with 1 tablespoon flour into the batter. The apple pieces add moisture, texture, and natural sweetness. Add ¼ teaspoon nutmeg to the swirl mixture for extra warmth and complexity.

Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread Recipe Variations Comparison

Serving Suggestions for Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread Recipe

This Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread Recipe shines on its own, but the right accompaniments can elevate the experience even further.

Breakfast spread: Slice thick and serve warm with softened butter, cream cheese, or even Nutella spread. A side of fresh berries adds color and cuts through the sweetness. Scrambled eggs and crispy turkey sausage create a balanced, satisfying breakfast plate.

Coffee shop experience: This bread pairs beautifully with your morning coffee or tea. The cinnamon notes complement coffee’s natural flavors, while the sweet coating is perfect for dunking. Try it with a vanilla latte, chai tea, or classic drip coffee.

Brunch presentation: Cut into thick slices and arrange on a wooden board alongside fresh fruit, yogurt parfaits, and honey butter. Add a small bowl of extra cinnamon sugar for those who want to dip.

Dessert transformation: Serve warm slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an indulgent dessert. Drizzle with caramel sauce or chocolate ganache for special occasions.

Gift packaging: Wrap the cooled loaf in cellophane and tie with baker’s twine for a thoughtful homemade gift. Include a card with reheating instructions.

Beverage pairings: Beyond coffee, this bread pairs wonderfully with cold milk (especially for kids), hot chocolate, spiced apple cider, or even a creamy hot toddy for adults on cold mornings.

FAQs About Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread Recipe

Can I make Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread Recipe into muffins?

Absolutely! Divide the batter among 12 standard muffin cups (fill about ⅔ full), add a small sprinkle of the cinnamon-sugar swirl on top of each, and bake at 350°F for 18-22 minutes. After baking, brush with melted butter and roll in cinnamon sugar just like the loaf. Muffins bake faster and are perfect for portion control or grab-and-go breakfasts.

Why did my Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread Recipe sink in the middle?

A sunken center usually means the bread is underbaked, even if the top looks done. The structure hasn’t set enough to support itself. Use an instant-read thermometer to check for 200-205°F internal temperature. Other causes include overmixing (which creates too much air that collapses) or opening the oven door too early, causing a temperature drop.

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream in Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread Recipe?

Yes, full-fat Greek yogurt works as a substitute for sour cream. The texture will be almost identical. Avoid non-fat or low-fat versions, as they don’t provide enough richness and moisture. If your yogurt is very thick, thin it slightly with a tablespoon of milk to match sour cream’s consistency.

How do I prevent the cinnamon swirl from sinking to the bottom in my Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread Recipe?

Ensure your batter is thick enough—it should be similar to cake batter, not pourable like pancake batter. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar rather than dumping it in clumps, and swirl gently rather than vigorously. Some sinking is natural and creates delicious pockets of concentrated cinnamon flavor, so don’t worry if it’s not perfectly even.

Is Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread Recipe safe during pregnancy?

Yes, this recipe is pregnancy-safe when fully baked. All ingredients—flour, eggs, butter, sour cream—are heated to safe temperatures during baking, eliminating any concerns. The bread contains no raw eggs, unpasteurized dairy, or other ingredients that require restriction during pregnancy. Enjoy it as part of a balanced diet.

Can I reduce the sugar in Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread Recipe?

You can reduce the sugar in the batter by up to ¼ cup (bringing it down to ¾ cup total) without major structural issues. The bread will be less sweet and slightly less moist. However, I don’t recommend reducing the cinnamon-sugar coating—it’s essential for that authentic donut flavor. If watching sugar intake, skip the coating on your portion and enjoy the bread plain.

Why is my Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread Recipe dry?

Dry bread usually results from overbaking, too much flour, or overmixing. Check your oven temperature with a thermometer, measure flour carefully using the spoon-and-level method, and mix only until ingredients are just combined. Also ensure you’re using full-fat sour cream—low-fat versions don’t provide enough moisture.

Can I make Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread Recipe ahead of time?

Definitely! This bread actually improves slightly after 24 hours as the flavors meld. Bake it up to 2 days before you need it, let it cool completely, then wrap tightly and store at room temperature. The texture remains perfect, though the exterior coating will soften from crunchy to more glazed (both textures are delicious). Warm before serving if desired.

Conclusion

This Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread Recipe delivers all the joy of a donut shop morning without leaving your kitchen. The tender, buttery crumb studded with ribbons of cinnamon sugar and coated in a crunchy-sweet exterior creates an irresistible breakfast treat that disappears fast. Whether you’re baking for your family, bringing something special to brunch, or treating yourself to a homemade indulgence, this recipe never disappoints.

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Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread Recipe 5 Secrets To Irresistible Homemade Bliss

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• Author: Simon
• Total Time: 90
• Yield: 1 loaf (10-12 slices) 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

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Description

Incredibly moist and tender Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread that captures all the flavors of your favorite cinnamon sugar donuts without any frying! This easy quick bread features a beautiful cinnamon swirl throughout and a crunchy cinnamon-sugar coating that makes every slice irresistible.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

½ teaspoon baking soda

½ teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

½ cup unsalted butter, softened (for batter)

1 cup granulated sugar (for batter)

2 large eggs, room temperature

1 cup full-fat sour cream

2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

⅓ cup granulated sugar (for swirl)

1½ tablespoons ground cinnamon (for swirl)

4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for coating)

½ cup granulated sugar (for coating)

1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (for coating)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper, leaving overhang on the sides.

2. In a small bowl, mix together ⅓ cup sugar and 1½ tablespoons cinnamon for the swirl. Set aside.

3. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and 1 teaspoon cinnamon. Set aside.

4. In a large bowl using an electric mixer, cream the softened butter and 1 cup sugar together for 3-4 minutes until light and fluffy.

5. Beat in eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Scrape down the bowl between additions.

6. Add sour cream and vanilla extract, mixing on low speed until just combined. The mixture may look slightly curdled—this is normal.

7. Add the flour mixture in three additions, mixing on low speed just until no flour streaks remain. Do not overmix.

8. Pour half the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar swirl mixture evenly over the batter.

9. Pour remaining batter on top and smooth gently. Sprinkle remaining swirl mixture over the top.

10. Use a butter knife to gently swirl through the batter in a zigzag pattern, creating marbled layers. Don’t over-swirl.

11. Bake for 50-60 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs. The internal temperature should read 200-205°F.

12. While baking, prepare the coating by mixing ½ cup sugar and 1 tablespoon cinnamon in a shallow bowl. Melt 4 tablespoons butter.

13. Cool bread in pan for 10 minutes, then use parchment handles to lift onto a wire rack.

14. While still warm, brush entire surface generously with melted butter, then roll or press all sides in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.

15. Let cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.

Notes

Bring eggs, sour cream, and butter to room temperature before starting for best results.

Don’t overmix the batter once flour is added—this creates a tough texture.

Measure flour using the spoon-and-level method to avoid using too much.

If the top browns too quickly, tent loosely with foil for the final 10-15 minutes of baking.

The cinnamon-sugar coating will be crunchiest on day one and will soften to a glazed texture over the following days—both are delicious.

Store tightly wrapped at room temperature for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

This recipe can be made into 12 muffins—bake at 350°F for 18-22 minutes.

Full-fat Greek yogurt can substitute for sour cream in equal amounts.

For extra decadence, fold 1 cup chocolate chips into the batter before baking.

• Prep Time: 15
• Cook Time: 60
• Category: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (1/10 of loaf)
• Calories: 295
• Sugar: 28g
• Sodium: 180mg
• Fat: 13g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 65mg

Keywords: Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread, Donut Bread Recipe, Cinnamon Bread, Quick Bread, Sweet Bread, Breakfast Bread, Donut Loaf, Easy Baking