Description

Imagine a warm loaf of bread that perfectly captures the essence of your favorite cinnamon donuts. The delightful aroma wafting through your kitchen as it bakes is an experience that will have your mouth watering in anticipation. Cinnamon Donut Bread is not just a treat; it’s a nostalgic journey that takes us back to cozy coffee shops and delightful bakeries. Each bite is a delightful combination of cinnamon, sweetness, and buttery goodness, making it an excellent companion for your morning tea or afternoon coffee.

This recipe is simple enough for even novice bakers but brings out flavors that can impress anyone. Whether you're looking to surprise your loved ones with a homemade gift or simply treat yourself to something special, this bread is guaranteed to please. With its warm, comforting taste and irresistible aroma, it becomes more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to create beautiful food memories.

Ingredients

• For the Bread:
• - 2 cups all-purpose flour
• - 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• - 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• - 1/2 teaspoon salt
• - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• - 1 cup granulated sugar
• - 2 large eggs
• - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• - 1 cup buttermilk
• For the Cinnamon-Sugar Topping:
• - 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• - 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Optional Substitutions and Variations:
• - For a healthier version: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or almond flour for added nutrition.
• - For gluten-free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
• - For vegan: Replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) and use plant-based butter and non-dairy milk instead of buttermilk.
• - Add-ins: Mix in chocolate chips or chopped nuts for an extra twist!

Preparation Method

Start by preparing your workspace. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the oven is at the perfect temperature by the time your batter is ready to go in. While the oven heats, take out a 9x5-inch loaf pan and either grease and flour it or line it with parchment paper. This step prevents the bread from sticking and allows for an effortless release once baked.

In a medium-sized bowl, combine the dry ingredients. Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon until they are evenly mixed. The cinnamon will impart a lovely flavor and fragrance; take a moment to inhale those warm spices—they set the mood just right for what's to come.

Now, in a large mixing bowl, begin the process of creaming together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar. It's crucial to ensure that your butter is soft, as this allows it to incorporate air and achieve a light and fluffy texture. Use a hand mixer or a stand mixer on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes. The mixture should be pale and fluffy, a process that makes your bread tender and moist.

Once you’ve achieved that lightness, add the eggs one at a time. Scramble the first egg in a small bowl before adding it into the sugar-butter mix, then follow with the second egg. Make sure to beat well after each addition, giving the mixture time to combine seamlessly. After the eggs, add your vanilla extract. This little addition is essential and will infuse your bread with a delightful warmth.

Gradually incorporate your prepared dry ingredients into the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and finish with the dry ingredients to maintain a uniform flavor and texture. Mix gently until just combined—overmixing can lead to a dense loaf, and we want our Cinnamon Donut Bread to be perfectly light.

After blending just until combined, you’ll have a lovely, thick batter. Pour it into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula to ensure an even bake. Set it in the preheated oven and let it work its magic for about 50-55 minutes. Watch closely after the 50-minute mark, as different ovens can vary. You’re looking for a toothpick inserted into the center to come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs clinging to it.

When the bread is close to being done, your kitchen will be filled with an amazing cinnamon aroma that makes it incredibly hard to wait. Once baked to perfection, remove the loaf from the oven. Allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, which allows it to firm up slightly and eases the transfer process.

While it cools, prepare the cinnamon-sugar topping. In a small bowl, whisk together granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. You want this mixture to be well blended, ensuring that every sprinkle is perfectly flavored.

After the 10 minutes, turn out your loaf onto a wire rack to cool. While the bread is still warm, brush the top generously with melted butter, which will help the cinnamon-sugar topping adhere and create a lovely, glistening surface. After brushing it, sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture liberally over the top, allowing it to cling to the buttery surface.

Let the bread cool completely before slicing into it. The aroma is utterly intoxicating, and you might be tempted to cut a slice immediately, but patience pays off when it comes to flavor and presentation.

Tips and Conclusion

For the best taste experience, serve slices of this exquisite bread warm. Pair it with a dollop of fresh whipped cream or a drizzle of maple syrup for an indulgent breakfast or brunch treat. It can also be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. For long-term storage, you can slice the bread and freeze it, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. This way, you can enjoy a slice anytime you crave a delightful treat!
Cinnamon Donut Bread is a heavenly creation that marries the comforting flavors of cinnamon with the soft, inviting texture of fresh bread. Making it from scratch is an incredibly rewarding experience that fills your home with warmth and happiness. As you savor your first slice, complemented by your favorite beverage, you’ll appreciate the memories created with each mouthful.

If you love this recipe, you might want to discover other fantastic offerings on our site. Consider exploring our recipes for Pumpkin Spice Bread, Banana Cake, or even rich Chocolate Chip Muffins. Each one is designed to ignite your passion for home cooking and inspire you to create delicious moments with friends and family.

Be sure to share this delightful recipe with loved ones, and keep browsing through our collection for more mouthwatering dishes. Enjoy your baking adventure, and happy cooking!