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Sliced homemade cinnamon donut loaf with a cinnamon-sugar topping on a wooden board.

Homemade Cinnamon Donut Bread

A delightful blend of comfort and nostalgia, this Homemade Cinnamon Donut Bread is infused with warm cinnamon and sweet creaminess, perfect for family brunches or cozy gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Course Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 12 servings
Calories 230 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main ingredients

  • 1/4 cup neutral oil (canola or vegetable) Providing moisture and a light texture.
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened Adding a creamy richness.
  • 1 cup granulated sugar For sweetness throughout the loaf.
  • 2 large eggs Acting as a binder for the ingredients.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Introducing warm, aromatic notes.
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour The foundation for a soft, tender crumb.
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder Helping the bread rise perfectly.
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine salt Enhancing the flavors.
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk Contributing to a delightful, tangy richness.
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon The soul of this recipe, infusing the dish with warmth.
  • 1/2 teaspoon molasses Adding depth and a hint of sweetness.

Topping ingredients

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted (for brushing) Coating the bread for an indulgent finish.
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for coating) Elevating the sweetness.
  • 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar Bringing out caramel notes.
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for coating) Enhancing that classic cinnamon flavor on the outside.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper if desired.
  • In a large bowl, beat together the neutral oil, softened butter, and granulated sugar until creamy. Mix in the eggs and vanilla extract until smooth.
  • Gently stir in all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and buttermilk until combined; do not overmix.
  • Reserve 1/2 cup of the batter in a separate bowl, then mix in ground cinnamon and molasses.
  • Spread half of the plain batter in the loaf pan, dollop with half of the cinnamon batter, follow with the remaining plain batter and the rest of the cinnamon batter. Swirl gently with a knife.

Baking

  • Bake for 45-50 minutes, until a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs.
  • Allow the loaf to cool for 10 minutes, then brush with melted butter and coat with a mix of granulated sugar, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
  • Let it set before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

For enhanced flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom. For a sweeter crust, increase the coating sugar. Consider adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips for an exciting twist. Let the bread cool completely before slicing for the best texture.
Keyword Brunch Recipe, Cinnamon Donut Bread, Comfort Food, Homemade Bread, Sweet Bread