Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread

Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread is a delightful fusion of traditional quick bread and the sweet indulgence of a sugar donut! This treat offers a moist, tender crumb that melts in your mouth. With its spiced sugar coating, it’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or any time you desire a sweet homemade delight. Its unique flavor profile and easy preparation make it a must-try for anyone who loves baked goods.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of cinnamon and nutmeg creates a warm, inviting taste that everyone will enjoy.
• Simple Preparation: This recipe requires minimal effort, making it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a breakfast treat, an afternoon snack, or even as a dessert.
• Perfect for Sharing: With 12 slices, it’s ideal for gatherings or family breakfasts.
• Customizable Toppings: Feel free to add nuts or dried fruits to make it your own!

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread, gather the necessary tools. Each tool plays an important role in ensuring your bread comes out perfectly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Loaf pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Loaf Pan: A good quality loaf pan ensures even baking and helps maintain the shape of your bread.
• Mixing Bowls: Having multiple bowls allows you to keep dry and wet ingredients separate until it’s time to combine them.
• Whisk: This tool is essential for mixing ingredients smoothly without lumps, which results in a tender crumb.

Ingredients

To make this delightful Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread, gather the following ingredients:

For the Bread

• 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups (300 g) granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 ¼ cups (306 g) whole milk
• 1 large egg (room temperature)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

For the Topping

• ¼ cup (½ stick / 57 g) unsalted butter (melted)
• ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg

How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Spray an 8 ½ x 4 ½-inch loaf pan with nonstick cooking spray.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine:
1. 2 cups all-purpose flour
2. 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
3. 2 teaspoons baking powder
4. ½ teaspoon kosher salt

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together:
1. 1 ¼ cups whole milk
2. 1 large egg (room temperature)
3. 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
4. 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Pour the wet mixture into the dry mixture and stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; the batter should be slightly runny.

Step 5: Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 60-70 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few crumbs.

Step 6: Cool Down

Once baked, remove from oven and let cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to parchment paper.

Step 7: Add Topping

While still warm, brush the surface with melted butter. In a small bowl, mix together:
1. ½ cup granulated sugar
2. 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
3. ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg

Evenly sprinkle this mixture over the butter-coated surface of your bread.

Enjoy your freshly baked Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread!

How to Serve Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread

Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread is not just a treat on its own; it can be served in various delightful ways. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, dessert, or as a snack, these serving suggestions will enhance your experience.

With Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy a slice alongside your favorite cup of coffee or tea. The warm spices complement the beverage perfectly.

Toasted with Butter

• Lightly toast slices and spread with butter for an extra indulgent experience. The melted butter adds richness to the sweet bread.

As French Toast

• Transform leftovers into French toast by dipping slices in a mixture of eggs and milk before frying. Top with syrup or fresh fruit for a delicious twist.

With Fresh Berries

• Serve with a side of fresh berries like strawberries or blueberries. Their tartness balances the sweetness of the bread beautifully.

Drizzled with Honey

• A drizzle of honey adds a lovely sweetness and enhances the flavor profile. It’s perfect for those who want an extra touch of sweetness.

How to Perfect Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread

Achieving the ideal Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your bread turns out perfect every time.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensure your egg and milk are at room temperature for better mixing and a smoother batter.
• Don’t overmix: Stir until just combined to maintain a tender crumb. Overmixing can lead to dense bread.
• Check for doneness: Use a toothpick in the center; it should come out with a few crumbs. This indicates it’s perfectly baked.
• Cool properly: Let the bread cool in the pan briefly before transferring it to parchment paper to avoid sogginess.
• Store correctly: Keep leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature to retain its moisture and freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread

Pairing side dishes with Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options that complement this sweet treat well.

1. Greek Yogurt
   A dollop of Greek yogurt adds creaminess and tang, balancing the sweetness of the bread.

2. Scrambled Eggs
   Fluffy scrambled eggs provide protein and make for a hearty breakfast when paired with the sweet bread.

3. Fruit Salad
   A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits offers brightness and acidity that contrast nicely with the sugar donut flavor.

4. Whipped Cream
   Serve slices topped with whipped cream for a dessert-like experience. Add a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra kick!

5. Maple Syrup
   A small dish of warm maple syrup allows for dipping or drizzling, enhancing each bite’s sweetness.

6. Chia Seed Pudding
   The creamy texture of chia seed pudding provides a nutritious yet satisfying side that pairs well with sweet flavors.

7. Cheese Platter
   A selection of mild cheeses can balance out the sweetness while adding savory notes to your meal.

8. Nuts and Seeds Mix
   A mix of nuts and seeds gives crunch and healthy fats, creating a satisfying contrast against the soft texture of the bread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread can be a delight, but there are common mistakes that can affect your results. Here are some errors to watch out for:

• Ignoring ingredient temperature: Using ingredients that are too cold, like the egg and milk, can lead to an uneven batter. Always bring them to room temperature for better mixing.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can make the bread tough instead of tender. Stir gently until just combined for a light texture.
• Not checking oven temperature: An inaccurate oven temperature can cause undercooking or overbaking. Use an oven thermometer for precise baking.
• Skipping the cooling time: Removing the bread from the pan too soon can result in breakage. Allow it to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before transferring it.
• Neglecting to coat evenly: Failing to thoroughly coat with butter and sugar topping can lead to uneven flavor. Make sure every side is coated well for a delicious finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Use parchment paper between slices to prevent sticking.

Freezing Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place bread on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on low power for about 15-20 seconds, watching closely not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Warm slices in a skillet over medium-low heat, flipping occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:

Can I use whole wheat flour?

You can substitute some all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, but it may change the texture. Start with half and adjust as needed.

How do I know when my bread is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter when done.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Feel free to fold in nuts or chocolate chips into the batter before baking for added texture and flavor.

What makes this bread so special?

The combination of cinnamon, sugar, and a tender crumb creates a delightful treat that resembles a donut while being easy to bake at home.

Final Thoughts

Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread offers a sweet twist on classic quick breads, perfect for any occasion. Its moist texture and spiced sugar coating make it irresistible. Experiment with different mix-ins or toppings to customize this recipe according to your taste!