Cinnamon Sugar Donut Sweet Bread

I’m excited to share my Cinnamon Sugar Donut Sweet Bread—a soft, tender loaf swirled with cinnamon sugar and topped with a buttery coating that makes it taste just like a classic cinnamon-sugar donut in sliceable form.

Why I’ll Love This Recipe

I love this bread because it’s easy to make, smells amazing while baking, and tastes like dessert for breakfast. The cinnamon sugar swirl gives it warmth and sweetness, while the buttery topping adds a rich, indulgent finish.

Ingredients

Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.

For the bread:

• All-purpose flour

• Baking powder

• Salt

• Unsalted butter, softened

• Granulated sugar

• Eggs

• Vanilla extract

• Whole milk or buttermilk

For the cinnamon sugar swirl:

• Granulated sugar

• Ground cinnamon

For the topping:

• Unsalted butter, melted

• Granulated sugar

• Ground cinnamon

Directions

1. I preheat my oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.

2. I whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.

3. In another bowl, I cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy, then beat in eggs one at a time and stir in vanilla.

4. I alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.

5. I mix the cinnamon and sugar for the swirl in a separate small bowl.

6. I spread half the batter in the loaf pan, sprinkle with half the cinnamon sugar, then repeat with the remaining batter and cinnamon sugar.

7. I swirl lightly with a knife to create a marbled effect.

8. I bake for 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

9. Once slightly cooled, I brush the top with melted butter and sprinkle generously with cinnamon sugar for the donut-like finish.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: About 10 slices

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Cook time: 45–55 minutes

• Total time: 1 hour–1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

• I sometimes add a touch of nutmeg to the cinnamon sugar for extra warmth.

• I swirl in a layer of chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch.

• I make mini loaves for gifting and adjust the baking time accordingly.

• I drizzle with a vanilla glaze instead of the cinnamon-sugar topping for a bakery-style finish.

Storage/Reheating

I store the bread covered at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, I warm slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds or toast lightly for a warm, donut-like texture.

FAQs

Can I freeze this bread?

Yes—I wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, freeze for up to 2 months, and thaw at room temperature before serving.

Can I use brown sugar in the swirl?

Yes—it adds a caramel-like depth of flavor.

Can I make this into muffins?

Yes—bake for 18–22 minutes and coat the tops with butter and cinnamon sugar after baking.

How do I keep the bread moist?

I avoid overmixing the batter and store it well-wrapped.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely—this bread freezes well, so doubling is a great idea for meal prep or gifting.

Conclusion

I love making Cinnamon Sugar Donut Sweet Bread because it’s cozy, sweet, and perfect for breakfast, dessert, or snacking. Every bite tastes like a cinnamon-sugar donut, but in a soft, sliceable loaf that’s easy to share.