Introduction

This Irresistibly Soft Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread combines the tender crumb of a loaf cake with the sweet, spicy flavors of cinnamon sugar coating. It’s perfect for breakfast, dessert, or anytime you crave a nostalgic treat that’s easy to make at home.

A close-up photo of a slice of yellow cake with a soft, moist texture sitting on a white plate. The cake has one visible layer with a light golden brown crust and a dusting of cinnamon sugar on top, creating a slightly crunchy texture with specks of brown and white. The inside of the cake is pale yellow with small, even air pockets. The slice is centered on a white plate placed on a surface with a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1/2 cup Canola Oil (can substitute with vegetable or coconut oil)
1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (softened) (margarine can be used as a dairy-free alternative)
1 cup Sugar (or coconut sugar for lower glycemic option)
2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract (almond extract can be used for a twist)
2 Large Eggs (room temperature) (can use flax eggs for vegan version)
2 cups All-Purpose Flour (a gluten-free flour blend can be used)
1 tablespoon Baking Powder (ensure it’s fresh)
1/2 teaspoon Salt (reduce in low-sodium diets if needed)
1/2 cup Buttermilk (or mix ½ tsp of vinegar with ½ cup milk as substitute)
1/4 cup Molasses (brown sugar can be used as alternative)
1 teaspoon Cinnamon (pumpkin pie spice can be used for a seasonal flavor)
1/4 cup Melted Unsalted Butter (for coating the bread)
1/4 cup Light Brown Sugar (dark brown sugar can enhance flavor)
1/4 cup Granulated Sugar (can use a sugar alternative)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a loaf pan by spraying it with non-stick spray.
Step 2: In a large bowl, mix softened butter, oil, and sugar until well combined and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 3: Beat in the eggs and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth.
Step 4: Gradually add the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and buttermilk, mixing until just combined.
Step 5: In a separate bowl, combine a portion of the batter with cinnamon and molasses.
Step 6: Layer half of the plain batter into the prepared loaf pan, then add half of the cinnamon-molasses batter on top. Repeat with the remaining batters.
Step 7: Swirl the batters gently with a knife to create a marbled pattern.
Step 8: Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 9: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Step 10: While still warm, dip the loaf in melted butter, then roll it in a mixture of brown sugar, granulated sugar, and cinnamon to coat thoroughly.

Tips & Variations

For a dairy-free version, substitute margarine for butter, use coconut oil, and replace buttermilk with almond milk mixed with vinegar.
Try adding chopped nuts or raisins for extra texture and flavor.
Use pumpkin pie spice instead of cinnamon for a festive twist.
Make vegan flax eggs by mixing 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed with 6 tablespoons water, letting it sit for 5 minutes before adding.

Storage

Store the donut bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, warm slices in a toaster oven or microwave until soft and fragrant.

How to Serve

A loaf of cinnamon sugar bread is sliced to show its soft, light beige inside with a moist texture full of small air holes. The top of the loaf has five thick ridges covered in a light brown cinnamon sugar coating that sparkles with sugar crystals. The edges of the bread are slightly darker brown, showing a baked crust. The bread sits on a white marbled surface with some scattered cinnamon sugar nearby and a brown cinnamon stick partially visible on the right side. Part of a white plate with another slice of bread appears on the bottom left, and the corner of another loaf is in the top right corner. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but the bread may be denser. For best texture, consider using a mix of whole wheat and all-purpose flour.

How do I make this recipe vegan?

Replace the eggs with flax eggs (ground flaxseed mixed with water), use a plant-based butter or margarine, substitute buttermilk with almond or soy milk plus vinegar, and ensure your sugar is vegan-friendly.