introduction
Cinnamon Donut Bread is a delightful treat that combines the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon with the soft, fluffy texture of freshly baked bread. It’s the perfect balance of sweet and spice, offering a taste that’s reminiscent of your favorite cinnamon donuts but in a loaf form. This recipe is incredibly easy to follow and requires basic ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen. Whether you’re craving a quick breakfast, a snack, or a dessert to accompany your afternoon tea, this bread is sure to satisfy.
The beauty of Cinnamon Donut Bread lies in its versatility and simplicity. It has a light, airy crumb with a golden, slightly crispy cinnamon-sugar topping that forms as it bakes. Each slice of this bread is moist and tender, with just the right amount of sweetness to make it feel indulgent without being overwhelming. The combination of vanilla and almond extracts adds a subtle richness, while the cinnamon takes center stage, creating that unmistakable warm, cozy aroma. This loaf is not only perfect for your own enjoyment but also makes a wonderful homemade gift for friends and family. The irresistible flavor and texture will have everyone asking for the recipe, making it an instant favorite in any household.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
Topping
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×4-inch loaf pan.
- Mix the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
- Whisk the wet ingredients: In another bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, melted butter, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using) until smooth.
- Mix the wet and dry ingredients: Slowly incorporate the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until fully combined. Fold gently with a spatula until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Transfer the batter: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Make the topping: In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar and cinnamon. Evenly sprinkle the mixture over the top of the batter.
- Bake the bread: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the bread: Once baked, let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
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Servings: 1 loaf (8-10 slices)
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Alternative tips for the recipe
- Add-ins for Extra Flavor:
To elevate the flavor, consider adding chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans) or raisins into the batter. You can also add a handful of chocolate chips for a sweet twist. - Use Brown Sugar:
Substitute granulated sugar with brown sugar in the batter for a richer flavor and slightly moister texture. This can also enhance the caramelized topping. - Use Greek Yogurt or Sour Cream:
For a tangy twist and even more moistness, replace half of the milk with Greek yogurt or sour cream. It will add extra richness to the bread. - Try a Different Spice:
While cinnamon is the star of the show, you can experiment with other spices like nutmeg or cloves for a different flavor profile. Just be sure not to overwhelm the bread with too many spices. - Make it Gluten-Free:
If you’re following a gluten-free diet, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour. You may need to adjust the amount of liquid slightly, as gluten-free flour can absorb more moisture. - Add a Glaze:
For an extra indulgent treat, drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk over the top of the cooled bread. This adds a sweet finishing touch and extra flavor. - Vary the Extracts:
Experiment with other extracts, such as maple extract or cinnamon extract, to add a unique twist to the flavor profile of the bread. - Make Mini Loafs or Muffins:
Instead of baking a single loaf, divide the batter into mini loaf pans or muffin tins for individual servings. This reduces baking time and makes for easy-to-serve portions. - Storage Tips:
To keep the bread fresh longer, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also wrap and freeze individual slices for up to 3 months. Simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag.
These alternatives and tips will allow you to customize the bread to your personal taste, making it an even more delightful treat.
conclusion
In conclusion, this Cinnamon Donut Bread is a simple yet irresistible treat that combines the warmth of cinnamon with a soft, fluffy texture. Whether enjoyed as a breakfast, snack, or dessert, it’s sure to please everyone who tastes it. With easy-to-follow instructions and customizable options, you can make this bread your own, adding unique twists to suit your preferences. The delightful aroma and sweetness make it the perfect addition to any occasion. Enjoy every slice, and don’t forget to share the joy with family and friends!
