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This buttery cinnamon sugar donut bread transformed my ordinary weekend mornings into something truly special. The magic happens when that warm, fresh-baked loaf gets coated in melted butter and rolled in a fragrant cinnamon-nutmeg sugar mixture. Each slice delivers that nostalgic donut shop experience but in a convenient, slice-able form that's perfect with your morning coffee.
I created this recipe when my kids were begging for donuts but I didn't want to deal with deep frying. Now they request this bread weekly and it's become our Saturday morning tradition while watching cartoons in pajamas.
Ingredients
- All purpose flour: Provides the perfect structure for this quick bread without becoming too dense
- Granulated sugar: Creates the sweetness in both the bread and coating for that authentic donut flavor
- Baking powder: Gives the bread its rise resulting in a light and tender crumb
- Whole milk: Adds richness and moisture avoid substituting low fat varieties
- Large egg: Binds everything together and contributes to the tender texture
- Unsalted butter: Adds richness to both the batter and coating use the best quality you can find
- Vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors choose pure rather than imitation for best results
- Ground cinnamon: Creates that classic donut shop flavor profile look for fresh fragrant spice
- Ground nutmeg: Is the secret ingredient that makes this taste authentically like a donut
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare Your Equipment:
- Preheat your oven to precisely 350°F and thoroughly spray your loaf pan with nonstick cooking spray making sure to get into all corners. This prevents any sticking which can ruin the beautiful crust we're trying to achieve.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl whisk together the flour sugar baking powder and salt until completely combined. This even distribution ensures no bitter spots from the baking powder and creates a consistent texture throughout the bread.
- Combine Wet Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl whisk the milk egg melted butter and vanilla until silky smooth. Make sure your egg is at room temperature to prevent the melted butter from solidifying when they come in contact. The mixture should look uniform with no streaks.
- Create The Batter:
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently with a spatula or wooden spoon. Move slowly in a folding motion until just combined about 10 to 15 strokes. The batter will look slightly lumpy but should have no dry flour visible. Overmixing will develop gluten and make your bread tough.
- Bake To Perfection:
- Pour the batter into your prepared pan spreading it evenly with your spatula. Place in the middle rack of your preheated oven and bake for 60 to 70 minutes. Start checking at 55 minutes by inserting a toothpick into the center. When it comes out with just a few moist crumbs not wet batter and the top is a beautiful golden brown your bread is done.
- Create The Magic Coating:
- After cooling in the pan for exactly 10 minutes carefully remove the loaf and place it on parchment paper. While still warm generously brush every surface with melted butter getting into all the nooks and crannies. In a separate bowl mix the sugar cinnamon and nutmeg thoroughly then sprinkle this mixture over the entire buttered surface of the bread. Turn the loaf to coat all sides creating that iconic sugar donut exterior that makes this recipe special.
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My favorite part of this bread is the contrast between the crisp sugary exterior and the tender cake like interior. It reminds me of Sunday mornings at my grandmother's house where she'd serve fresh baked goods with hot chocolate. That memory inspired me to create this recipe combining the best parts of her cooking with modern convenience.
Storage Tips
For the freshest taste wrap fully cooled bread in plastic wrap then aluminum foil to maintain that perfect texture. While it will last up to five days in the refrigerator the bread truly shines when enjoyed at room temperature. If refrigerating allow it to sit out for 20 minutes before serving to restore that soft texture we love.
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Making Perfect Mini Loaves
This batter works beautifully in mini loaf pans for individual serving sizes or gift giving. Divide the batter between four greased mini loaf pans and reduce baking time to approximately 30 to 35 minutes. The smaller loaves create more surface area for that delicious sugar coating making each bite more indulgent. The mini versions make excellent teacher gifts or additions to care packages.
Creative Variations
Transform this classic recipe by adding different flavor profiles. Try orange zest and cardamom for a citrus twist or add chocolate chips and a touch of espresso powder for a mocha version. You can even layer the batter with a thin ribbon of cinnamon sugar mixture in the middle of the loaf for a surprise swirl when sliced. During fall add finely diced apples and increase the cinnamon for an apple cider donut experience.
Serving Suggestions
While delicious on its own this bread transforms into a spectacular dessert when slightly warmed and topped with vanilla bean ice cream. For brunch slice and arrange on a tiered serving tray alongside fresh berries and whipped cream. When serving to guests toast slices lightly under the broiler to revive the sugar coating and create an extra crispy exterior that contrasts beautifully with the tender interior.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What makes Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread unique?
The bread combines the texture of traditional quick bread with the sweet, spiced coating reminiscent of sugar donuts, offering a delightful fusion of flavors and textures.
- → Can I use a milk substitute in this bread?
Yes, but whole milk is recommended for its rich texture and flavor. Substitutes like almond or oat milk may alter the bread's moisture and softness.
- → How should I store Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread?
Store it at room temperature in an airtight container for a day or two, refrigerate for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to a month for best flavor.
- → Can I turn this bread into muffins?
Absolutely! Divide the batter into muffin cups and bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes. Top with spiced sugar after baking.
- → What is the best way to serve this bread?
Enjoy it with coffee for breakfast, as part of a brunch spread, or warmed with ice cream as dessert. It's also a satisfying snack on its own.