Name: Cinnamon Sugar Donut Sweet Bread
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 2 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 2 tsp active dry yeast; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1 cup warm whole milk; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 2 tbsp ground cinnamon; 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

This cinnamon sugar donut sweet bread combines the soft, fluffy texture of homemade bread with the comforting, nostalgic flavor of a cinnamon sugar donut. It’s ideal for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet treat alongside your favorite coffee or tea.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe bridges the gap between a comforting loaf of bread and a deliciously sweet cinnamon donut. The fluffy texture, buttery layers, and cinnamon sugar topping create a delightful balance of flavor and texture. Plus, it’s straightforward to make and fills the house with an incredible aroma as it bakes.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Bread:

3 cups all-purpose flour

1/4 cup granulated sugar

2 teaspoons active dry yeast

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1 cup whole milk, warm

1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

2 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:

1/2 cup granulated sugar

2 tablespoons ground cinnamon

2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Directions

Prepare the Dough:

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, yeast, salt, and cinnamon.

In another bowl, mix the warm milk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir until a dough forms.

Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. If you prefer, use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment.

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours until it doubles in size.

Shape the Bread:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

Punch down the dough and transfer it to a floured surface. Roll it into a rectangle about 1/2 inch thick.

Brush the surface with melted butter and sprinkle evenly with the cinnamon sugar mixture.

Roll up the dough tightly, jelly-roll style, and pinch the edges to seal. Shape it into a loaf and place it into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.

Second Rise and Bake:

Cover the loaf pan with a towel and let the dough rise for 30 minutes.

Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and it sounds hollow when tapped.

Coat with Cinnamon Sugar:

While the bread bakes, mix the sugar and cinnamon for the coating in a small bowl.

After baking, let the bread cool for 5 minutes. Brush the top with melted butter and immediately coat it with the cinnamon sugar mixture.

Serve:

Allow the bread to cool slightly before slicing. Enjoy it warm or at room temperature.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 35 minutes

Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes

Servings: 8

Variations

Glazed Option: Skip the cinnamon sugar topping and drizzle the bread with a simple powdered sugar glaze instead.

Nutty Twist: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the cinnamon sugar filling for extra texture and flavor.

Whole Wheat Version: Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier loaf.

Mini Loaves: Divide the dough into smaller portions and bake in mini loaf pans for individual servings.

Cranberry Infusion: Add dried cranberries or raisins to the dough for a fruity touch.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To keep it fresh longer, wrap it tightly and refrigerate it for up to a week. For reheating, I like to warm slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or toast them lightly for a crisp edge.

Related Recipes:

Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze

FAQs

How do I know when the dough has risen enough?

The dough is ready when it has doubled in size and springs back slightly when gently pressed with your fingertip.

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can substitute instant yeast. Skip the step of dissolving the yeast in warm milk, and mix it directly with the dry ingredients.

Can I freeze this bread?

Absolutely! Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

What should I serve with this bread?

This bread pairs perfectly with coffee, tea, or a light fruit spread. It’s also delicious with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of honey.

Why is my bread dense?

Dense bread can result from under-kneading or not allowing the dough to rise fully. Ensure the dough is elastic before the first rise and has doubled in size before baking.

Conclusion

This cinnamon sugar donut sweet bread is the perfect combination of comfort and indulgence. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or toasted the next day, its soft texture and cinnamon sugar coating make every bite unforgettable. Make it for a special breakfast or simply to treat yourself—I know it will become a favorite!

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