Cinnamon Donut Bread 🥯❤️ – Sweet, Spiced & Perfect for Family Mornings
There’s something magical about waking up to the smell of cinnamon wafting through the kitchen. Imagine a loaf that combines the cozy sweetness of a cinnamon donut with the tender crumb of homemade bread. That’s exactly what this Cinnamon Donut Bread delivers—a delightful treat perfect for family breakfasts, brunch gatherings, or an afternoon pick-me-up with coffee. 🍵
In this article, we’ll walk through the complete recipe, share expert chef tips from Gordon Ramsay and Ina Garten, break down the health benefits of cinnamon, and even provide a nutrition chart. You’ll also find practical baking safety considerations, frequently asked questions, and links to more comforting recipes from Fresh Toner Hungar.
🧾 Ingredients (Makes 1 Loaf)
For the Batter:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup buttermilk (or milk + 1 tbsp lemon juice)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
For the Cinnamon Sugar Topping:
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 2 tbsp melted butter
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
- In another bowl, combine buttermilk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.
- Slowly fold wet ingredients into the dry mixture until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Pour half the batter into the pan, sprinkle with half the cinnamon sugar mix, then layer remaining batter. Top with the rest of the cinnamon sugar.
- Swirl lightly with a knife for a marbled effect.
- Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Cool for 15 minutes before removing from pan. Brush with melted butter and sprinkle extra cinnamon sugar if desired.
👨🍳 Expert Chef Tips
Gordon Ramsay’s Tip:
“Always use fresh cinnamon. The spice loses its punch after sitting in your cupboard for years. A fresh batch ensures maximum flavor.”
Ina Garten’s Tip:
“Room temperature eggs and dairy help the batter mix evenly, giving you that perfect soft crumb. Don’t rush this step.”
Bobby Flay’s Tip:
“If you want extra depth, add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the batter. It creates a bakery-style finish.”
🥗 Nutrition & Health Benefits
This bread may taste indulgent, but it also brings along the health benefits of cinnamon and dairy. Cinnamon is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, while buttermilk provides calcium and probiotics.
Ingredient | Serving Size | Calories | Key Nutrients |
---|---|---|---|
Flour | 2 cups (240g) | 910 | Carbohydrates, Fiber |
Sugar | 1 cup (200g) | 774 | Energy |
Cinnamon | 2 tsp (5g) | 12 | Antioxidants, Anti-inflammatory compounds |
Butter | ½ cup (113g) | 810 | Fat, Vitamin A |
Buttermilk | 1 cup (240ml) | 100 | Calcium, Probiotics |
Eggs | 2 large (100g) | 143 | Protein, Vitamin B12 |
⚠️ Health & Safety Considerations
- Always cool bread completely before wrapping to avoid mold growth.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Use pasteurized eggs to reduce the risk of foodborne illness.
- Check baking powder and soda expiration dates—expired leavening agents can make bread dense and heavy.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make Cinnamon Donut Bread without buttermilk?
Yes! Mix 1 cup milk with 1 tbsp lemon juice or vinegar and let it sit for 10 minutes before using.
2. How do I keep the bread moist?
Do not overbake. Remove from the oven once a toothpick comes out mostly clean.
3. Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, substitute up to 50% of the flour for whole wheat for extra fiber.
4. How do I make this gluten-free?
Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Add 1 tbsp of Greek yogurt for extra moisture.
5. Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Fold in ½ cup of chopped pecans, walnuts, or mini chocolate chips.
6. How long does it last?
Stored properly, it lasts 3 days at room temperature or 2 months frozen.
7. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply double all ingredients and bake in two separate loaf pans.
8. Why did my bread sink in the middle?
This happens if the bread is underbaked or the oven door was opened too soon.
9. What can I serve with this bread?
Pair it with cream cheese, honey butter, or fresh fruit for a balanced breakfast.
10. Can I make muffins instead of a loaf?
Yes! Bake at 350°F for 18–22 minutes for fluffy cinnamon donut muffins.
📌 Related Recipes You’ll Love
- Apple Cinnamon Bread – a fruity twist on the classic
- Easy Banana Loaf – moist, sweet, and beginner-friendly
- Spiced Pumpkin Muffins – perfect for cozy fall mornings
✨ Next time you crave something warm, sweet, and comforting, try this Cinnamon Donut Bread. It’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again, especially for family mornings when love and flavor go hand in hand. 🥯❤️