If you are looking to bring a little magic to your breakfast table or craving a sweet treat that feels like a warm hug, the Cinnamon Sugar Donut Sweet Bread Recipe is exactly what you need. This loaf captures the irresistible flavors of freshly baked donuts with that perfect cinnamon sugar coating, combined into a soft, swirled sweet bread that’s easy to slice and share. Every bite offers a tender crumb infused with cinnamon and molasses, finished with a luscious cinnamon sugar glaze that melts in your mouth. You’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe time and again, whether for an indulgent morning or a cozy afternoon snack.

Cinnamon Sugar Donut Sweet Bread Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the flavors and textures just right in this Cinnamon Sugar Donut Sweet Bread Recipe relies on straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that work together beautifully. Each one plays a role in creating that tender, moist bread and gorgeously spiced cinnamon swirl that makes this loaf unforgettable.

Oil (1/4 cup, canola preferred): Adds moisture and a light texture without overpowering the sweetness.
Unsalted butter (1/4 cup softened + 1/2 cup melted): Brings rich flavor and the perfect buttery finish for the coating.
Sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the bread and helps with browning for a golden crust.
Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Enhances all the flavors with its warm, aromatic notes.
Eggs (2 large, room temperature): Provide structure and richness for a tender crumb.
All-purpose flour (1 1/2 cups): Forms the base of the bread and ensures a soft texture.
Baking powder (1 tsp): Helps the bread rise to the perfect light fluffiness.
Salt (1/2 tsp): Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
Buttermilk (1/2 cup): Adds a subtle tang and moistness while reacting with the baking powder for lift.
Molasses (1/2 tsp): Gives depth and a hint of classic cinnamon roll richness to the swirl.
Cinnamon (1/2 tsp + 1/2 tsp for topping): The star spice that brings warmth and irresistible aroma throughout the loaf and topping.
Light brown sugar (1/4 cup, packed): Enhances the topping with a chewy, caramel-like sweetness.
Granulated sugar (1/4 cup): Adds crunch and sparkle to the cinnamon sugar coating.

How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Donut Sweet Bread Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan

Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). A well-prepared loaf pan is key for this recipe, so generously spray it with non-stick spray for an effortless release of your beautiful sweet bread after baking.

Step 2: Cream the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, oil, and sugar. Beat them together until the mixture turns smooth and creamy, creating a luscious base that will keep your bread moist and tender.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Next, crack in your eggs and pour in the vanilla extract. Mix again until the batter becomes smooth and cohesive, ensuring all those flavors start to meld harmoniously.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients Alternately with Buttermilk

Incorporate the dry ingredients—flour, baking powder, and salt—alternating with buttermilk for a tender crumb. Mixing gently after each addition is important to create a smooth, lump-free batter that’s ready for swirling.

Step 5: Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl Batter

Set aside about 1/2 to 3/4 cup of your batter in a small bowl and stir in the molasses along with cinnamon. This dark, rich mixture will deliver that signature deep flavor and beautiful marbled effect inside your bread.

Step 6: Layer the Batters in the Pan

Begin by spooning half of the plain batter into your loaf pan. Dot half of your cinnamon swirl mixture on top, then add the remaining plain batter, followed by the rest of the cinnamon mixture. This layering is what creates the delightful cinnamon ribbons throughout the bread.

Step 7: Swirl the Batters

Grab a knife and gently swirl the batters together. Be careful not to overdo it — you want that marbled pattern to shine through, tempting everyone with each slice.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Pop your pan into the oven and bake for about 40 to 45 minutes. The bread is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, signaling a perfectly baked, fluffy inside.

Step 9: Cool Your Bread

Remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then carefully loosen the edges and transfer it to a wire rack to cool slightly — this helps the bread set while still warm.

Step 10: Prepare and Apply the Cinnamon Sugar Topping

Mix melted butter with brown sugar, granulated sugar, and cinnamon in a shallow dish to create that melt-in-your-mouth sticky topping. Dip the warm bread sides into the mixture or spoon it generously over the loaf for an indulgent cinnamon sugar coat that seals in sweetness.

How to Serve Cinnamon Sugar Donut Sweet Bread Recipe

Garnishes

While this bread is incredible on its own, a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of vanilla glaze can add an extra touch of elegance and sweetness. Freshly whipped cream or a sprinkle of chopped nuts also makes for a lovely, inviting presentation.

Side Dishes

This Cinnamon Sugar Donut Sweet Bread Recipe pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or a chai latte, complementing its spiced, sugary flavors. Fresh fruit like berries or sliced apples can also add a fresh contrast that keeps the experience balanced.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing the bread thickly and serving it as French toast with a dusting of powdered sugar and maple syrup. You can also make individual mini loaves or muffins using the same batter for a charming brunch option everyone will adore.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap your leftover sweet bread tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It will keep well at room temperature for up to 2 days, maintaining that moist texture and flavorful cinnamon sugar coating.

Freezing

This bread freezes beautifully. Slice it before freezing to make thawing and serving a breeze. Wrap slices individually or as a whole loaf in freezer-safe wrap and foil, and store for up to 3 months.

Reheating

To enjoy leftovers as fresh as possible, heat slices in a toaster oven or microwave for a few seconds. The cinnamon sugar topping will soften and the bread will regain its tender, warm comfort — just like being freshly baked.

FAQs

Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?

Yes, you can substitute regular milk mixed with a teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar to mimic buttermilk’s acidity, which helps tenderize the bread and activate the leavening.

Is it possible to make this bread vegan?

With some adjustments, yes! Use plant-based butter and milk alternatives, and replace eggs with flax eggs or a commercial egg replacer to keep the texture and flavor close to the original.

Can I use a different oil instead of canola?

Definitely! Vegetable oil or light olive oil works well too — just avoid strong-flavored oils like extra virgin olive oil to maintain the bread’s delicate sweetness.

How important is the molasses in the cinnamon swirl?

Molasses adds a distinctive depth and richness that elevates the cinnamon swirl. If you don’t have any, a dark brown sugar can provide a similar effect but molasses is ideal for authenticity.

What is the best way to get those perfect swirls?

Use a gentle hand when swirling the cinnamon batter into the plain batter with a knife or skewer, creating visible ribbons instead of completely mixing — that’s the secret to beautiful presentation!

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend enough giving this Cinnamon Sugar Donut Sweet Bread Recipe a try. It’s a comforting, simple, and downright addictive treat that brings sweet delight to your kitchen. Perfect for sharing or savoring in quiet moments, this recipe truly makes every bite feel special. So grab those ingredients, and get baking — your taste buds will thank you!