Cinnamon Donut Bread

There's something incredibly nostalgic about the smell of fresh-baked bread wafting through the house, especially when it's Cinnamon Donut Bread. I can still remember the first time I made this delightful treat with my grandmother on a chilly Sunday morning. We'd gather in her cozy kitchen, laughter mixing with the sweet aroma of cinnamon and sugar. It felt like a warm hug, and every slice was a moment of happiness we savored together.

This Cinnamon Donut Bread is perfect for those crisp fall mornings when you want something comforting to enjoy with your coffee or tea. It's not just a breakfast option; it's a sweet snack that brings joy to any time of day. Trust me, once you take that first bite, you'll feel like you're wrapped in a warm blanket of cinnamon goodness, and it will surely become a favorite in your home too.

Why You'll Love "Cinnamon Donut Bread"

• Quick prep time - you can whip this up in just 15 minutes!
• Minimal ingredients - just basic pantry staples and a few extras.
• Family-friendly - kids love it, and it's perfect for breakfast or a snack.
• Freezer-friendly - freeze leftovers for a cozy treat any time.
• Irresistible aroma - fills your home with the warm scent of cinnamon.
• Easy to customize - add nuts or chocolate chips for extra flavor!

Ingredients You'll Need

For the Bread

• 2 cups all-purpose flour - sifted for a lighter texture.
• 1 cup granulated sugar - the sweet base for our delightful bread.
• 2 teaspoons baking powder - make sure it's fresh for a good rise!
• 1 teaspoon baking soda - balances the acidity of the buttermilk.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon - the star of the show, of course!
• ½ teaspoon salt - enhances all the flavors beautifully.
• 2 large eggs - at room temperature for better mixing.
• 1 cup buttermilk - don't worry if you don't have this; I'll share a substitute tip below!
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted - brings richness and moisture.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - for that extra layer of flavor!

For the Topping

• ¼ cup granulated sugar - for that delightful sweet crunch on top.
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon - because we can never have too much cinnamon!

Tip: If you don't have buttermilk, you can easily make your own by adding a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to a cup of milk and letting it sit for about 5 minutes. Voila! You've got buttermilk! And for flour, feel free to use a gluten-free blend if you need to cater to dietary restrictions.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven

1. First things first! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your loaf pan with a little butter or non-stick spray. You want your bread to slide out easily when it's done!

Make the Batter

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt. Give it a good stir to mix everything up nicely.
2. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, buttermilk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until it's all smooth. This is where the magic begins!
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Don't overdo it! It's okay if there are a few lumps; they'll bake out and keep the bread nice and fluffy.

Transfer and Prepare for Baking

1. Transfer the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon for the topping, then sprinkle it generously over the batter. It's going to create that heavenly cinnamon crust!

Bake the Bread

1. Pop your loaf pan into the preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs.

Cool and Serve

1. Once baked, let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice it warm, and enjoy!

Variations

There are so many delightful twists you can put on this Cinnamon Donut Bread! Try swapping out the buttermilk for a dairy-free alternative like almond milk mixed with a splash of vinegar. For an autumn vibe, add chopped apples or pumpkin puree to the batter. You can also experiment with different spices, like nutmeg or cardamom, for a unique flavor profile. If you're feeling adventurous, a swirl of Nutella or peanut butter in the middle will take this bread to the next level!

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving

Slice the Cinnamon Donut Bread warm and serve it with a drizzle of honey or a pat of butter for an extra treat. It pairs wonderfully with coffee or tea, making it a perfect breakfast or afternoon snack!

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need to keep it longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Just thaw and enjoy!

Helpful Notes

• If you're out of eggs, you can use ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce as a substitute for each egg.
• Add-ins like walnuts or chocolate chips can elevate the flavor; just be mindful of the additional weight in the batter.
• For a lighter version, consider using half whole wheat flour and half all-purpose flour.
• This recipe is nut-free, but always check your ingredients for potential allergens.
• Feel free to reduce the sugar slightly if you prefer a less sweet bread.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze Cinnamon Donut Bread?

Absolutely! You can freeze the bread for up to 3 months. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer bag. Thaw it at room temperature when you're ready to enjoy it!

What can I substitute for buttermilk?

If you don't have buttermilk on hand, mix 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice with 1 cup of regular milk. Let it sit for about 5 minutes, and you've got an easy buttermilk substitute!

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make this bread gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure it has a binding agent for the best texture!

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Definitely! You can fold in about a cup of chopped nuts or chocolate chips into the batter for extra flavor and texture. Just keep an eye on the batter's consistency!

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to bring this Cinnamon Donut Bread into your kitchen! It's not just a recipe; it's a way to create sweet memories and fill your home with warmth. Whether it's a cozy breakfast or an afternoon snack, each slice tells a story of comfort and joy. So gather your ingredients, put on your favorite apron, and let the delightful aroma of cinnamon fill the air. Trust me, your family will be asking for seconds, and you'll be so glad you made this keeper. Happy baking!