There’s something undeniably comforting about the warm, sweet aroma of cinnamon and sugar swirling through the air. Our Cinnamon Sugar Donut Sweet Bread brings that classic donut flavor into a soft, pull-apart loaf that’s perfect for sharing. Whether it’s breakfast, brunch, or a cozy snack, this recipe delivers indulgence without the fuss of frying.
We love how this sweet bread combines the best of both worlds—a tender, fluffy texture with a generous coating of cinnamon sugar that melts into every bite. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Let’s dive into creating this delightful treat that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
To create our Cinnamon Sugar Donut Sweet Bread, we’ll need a mix of simple yet flavorful ingredients that come together to deliver that classic donut taste and soft, pull-apart texture. Below are the ingredients separated for the dough and the irresistible cinnamon sugar coating.
For the Dough
We start with ingredients that create the base for our fluffy, slightly sweet bread:
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup warm whole milk (110°F)
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating
This coating gives our bread its signature sweet and spicy crust reminiscent of classic donut flavors:
| Ingredient | Measurement | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Granulated sugar | ½ cup | For sweetness and crunch |
| Ground cinnamon | 2 tablespoons | Provides warm, spicy flavor |
This combination of cinnamon and sugar will be generously sprinkled over the sweet bread, delivering that nostalgic donut experience without any frying involved.
Equipment Needed
To make our Cinnamon Sugar Donut Sweet Bread with ease and precision, we need the right equipment to ensure the dough develops perfectly and the cinnamon sugar coating adheres beautifully.
Essential Kitchen Tools
- Mixing Bowls: Use large mixing bowls to combine wet and dry ingredients effectively.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements ensure balance in flavor and texture.
- Stand Mixer with Dough Hook Attachment: This helps knead the dough thoroughly, saving time and effort.
If you don’t have a stand mixer, a sturdy wooden spoon and elbow grease will work too. - Whisk: For blending eggs, sugar, and wet ingredients smoothly.
- Rubber Spatula: Ideal for scraping down the bowl to integrate all ingredients evenly.
- Loaf Pan (9 x 5 inches): This size fits the pull-apart sweet bread perfectly and helps with even baking.
- Pastry Brush: For brushing melted butter onto the baked bread before coating with cinnamon sugar.
- Cooling Rack: To allow the bread to cool completely, preventing sogginess and keeping the crust crisp.
Optional But Helpful
- Thermometer: Check the temperature of the warm milk to keep it between 105°F and 110°F for optimal yeast activation.
- Sifter: To aerate the flour and prevent lumps in the dough.
- Timer: Track rising and baking times precisely.
| Equipment | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mixing Bowls | Mixing ingredients | Use large size for ease |
| Measuring Cups & Spoons | Accurate measuring | Essential for consistency |
| Stand Mixer (Dough Hook) | Kneading dough | Saves effort, ensures smooth dough |
| Whisk | Blending wet ingredients | Helps incorporate eggs well |
| Rubber Spatula | Scraping down bowl | Ensures no ingredients are wasted |
| Loaf Pan (9×5 inches) | Baking the sweet bread | Perfect size for this recipe |
| Pastry Brush | Brushing melted butter | Needed for cinnamon sugar coating |
| Cooling Rack | Cooling bread evenly | Prevents sogginess |
| Thermometer (optional) | Checking milk temperature | Keeps yeast active and healthy |
| Sifter (optional) | Aerating flour | For a lighter dough texture |
| Timer (optional) | Tracking time | For precise rising and baking |
Having these tools on hand sets us up for success, helping the dough develop that soft, fluffy texture and the cinnamon sugar crust to form perfectly around our sweet bread.
Prep Work
Before we start baking our Cinnamon Sugar Donut Sweet Bread, let’s ensure everything is ready for a smooth process. Proper prep work sets the foundation for the soft, flavorful texture and the perfect cinnamon sugar crust we aim for.
Preparing the Dough
- Activate the Yeast:
Warm milk to about 110°F (not hotter) to awaken the active dry yeast. Combine the milk, yeast, and a pinch of granulated sugar in a small bowl. Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes foamy and bubbly.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, the remaining granulated sugar, and salt. This ensures even distribution and prevents clumps.
- Combine Wet Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, beat eggs, vanilla extract, and melted unsalted butter until well blended.
- Form the Dough:
Pour the activated yeast mixture and wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Using a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, knead on medium speed for 8 to 10 minutes until the dough is smooth, elastic, and slightly sticky.
- First Rise:
Transfer the dough to a lightly greased bowl. Cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm, draft-free spot until doubled in size, about 1 to 1.5 hours.
| Step | Ingredient(s) | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Activate yeast | Warm milk, yeast, sugar | 110°F, 5-10 minutes |
| Mix dry ingredients | Flour, sugar, salt | Whisk together |
| Combine wet ingredients | Eggs, butter, vanilla | Beat smoothly |
| Knead dough | All combined | 8-10 minutes with hook |
| First rise | Dough | Cover & rise 1-1.5 hours |
Preparing the Cinnamon Sugar Mixture
While the dough rises, we prepare the essential topping that gives our bread its classic donut flavor.
- Combine Ingredients:
In a small bowl, thoroughly mix granulated sugar and ground cinnamon.
- Adjust Sweetness and Spice:
Depending on preference, we can adjust the ratio to emphasize more cinnamon or sugar, but the classic proportion is 1 cup sugar to 1 tablespoon cinnamon.
- Set Aside:
Keep the cinnamon sugar mixture ready at room temperature for easy coating after baking.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Granulated sugar | 1 cup | Base sweetener |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 tablespoon | Warm spice flavor |
By preparing both the dough and the cinnamon sugar coating ahead, we ensure we keep a steady pace and achieve the perfectly soft, sweet bread with the irresistible cinnamon sugar crust.
Directions
Follow these steps carefully to create our Cinnamon Sugar Donut Sweet Bread. Each phase builds the fluffy texture and irresistible cinnamon sugar crust we love.
Making the Dough
- Activate the yeast by combining warm milk (about 110°F) with granulated sugar and active dry yeast. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, and additional granulated sugar.
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, melted unsalted butter, and vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients and frothy yeast mixture to the dry ingredients.
- Use a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook on medium speed to knead the dough for 8-10 minutes, or knead by hand on a floured surface until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and allow it to rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, until doubled in size.
Shaping the Bread
- Lightly flour a clean surface and punch down the risen dough to deflate.
- Roll the dough into a large rectangle approximately 12 x 16 inches.
- Cut the dough into strips about 1-1.5 inches wide.
- Stack the strips on top of each other, then tightly roll them together to form a loaf shape.
- Place the shaped dough seam-side down into a greased 9 x 5-inch loaf pan.
Adding the Cinnamon Sugar Coating
- Combine granulated sugar and ground cinnamon in a small bowl for the coating.
- Use a pastry brush to lightly coat the entire loaf with melted butter.
- Generously sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture all over the top and sides, pressing lightly to adhere the mixture to the butter.
Baking Instructions
| Step | Temperature | Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Preheat oven | 350°F (177°C) | – | Ensure oven is fully heated before baking |
| Bake the bread | 350°F (177°C) | 35-40 minutes | Bake until golden brown and internal temp is 190°F |
| Check doneness | Use a thermometer or toothpick (should come out clean) |
- Place the loaf pan on the middle rack.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes.
- Rotate halfway through baking for even browning.
Cooling and Finishing Touches
- Remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
- Transfer the loaf to a cooling rack to cool completely; this keeps the crust crisp and bread fluffy.
- For extra cinnamon sugar crunch, brush the loaf with melted butter again and re-sprinkle cinnamon sugar while warm.
- Slice and serve warm or at room temperature to enjoy the soft pull-apart texture with the classic cinnamon sugar donut flavor.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
To enjoy our Cinnamon Sugar Donut Sweet Bread at its freshest, we recommend planning ahead with these Make-Ahead and Storage Tips.
Make-Ahead Instructions
- Prepare the dough up to the first rise. After kneading, cover the dough tightly and refrigerate overnight. This slow fermentation enhances flavor and texture.
- When ready to bake, let the dough come to room temperature for about 30 minutes.
- Proceed with shaping, coating in cinnamon sugar, and baking as directed.
Storing the Bread
Proper storage helps preserve the bread’s soft, pull-apart texture and classic cinnamon sugar crust.
| Storage Method | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 2 days | Store wrapped in foil or airtight bag. |
| Refrigerator | Up to 1 week | Prevents mold but may dry bread slightly. |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. |
Reheating Tips for Optimal Freshness
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Wrap bread loosely in foil.
- Heat for 10-15 minutes until warm.
- Optional: Brush with melted butter and sprinkle extra cinnamon sugar for a freshly baked flavor and crunchy coating.
Additional Tips
“To keep our Cinnamon Sugar Donut Sweet Bread tasting bakery-fresh, avoid storing it in the fridge for extended periods unless tightly wrapped.”
By following these tips we ensure each bite remains tender and flavorful, ready to satisfy whenever craving strikes.
Serving Suggestions
To enjoy our Cinnamon Sugar Donut Sweet Bread at its best, we recommend several delicious serving options that complement its soft texture and warm cinnamon flavor.
Warm and Cozy
Serve the bread warm straight from the oven or reheated. The gentle warmth enhances the cinnamon sugar coating and softens the bread for a melt-in-your-mouth experience. Slice it into thick pieces and enjoy with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey for added richness.
Classic Accompaniments
Pair the sweet bread with a hot beverage to create a comforting snack or breakfast:
- Coffee (black, latte, or cappuccino)
- Hot chocolate with whipped cream
- Chai tea latte or spiced herbal tea
These drinks highlight the sweet and spicy notes of the cinnamon while balancing the bread’s richness.
Dessert Twist
Turn this sweet bread into an indulgent dessert by:
- Serving with a scoop of vanilla ice cream
- Topping with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon
- Drizzling with caramel or chocolate sauce
This transforms a simple loaf into a festive treat suitable for gatherings or special occasions.
Family Style Sharing
The pull-apart texture of our cinnamon sugar bread encourages sharing. Arrange slices on a large serving platter for family or guests to enjoy together during brunch or casual get-togethers.
Storage Serving Tips
| Storage Method | Serving Tip |
|---|---|
| Room temperature | Warm slices in a toaster oven for 5-7 minutes before serving. |
| Refrigerated | Allow the bread to come to room temperature or microwave briefly. |
| Frozen | Thaw overnight in the fridge then warm as needed. |
“Reheating with a light brush of butter revives the fresh-baked texture and flavor perfectly.”
Our Cinnamon Sugar Donut Sweet Bread shines best when served fresh warm, but these flexible serving suggestions ensure you can enjoy it anytime with maximum delight.
Conclusion
This Cinnamon Sugar Donut Sweet Bread brings the best of classic flavors with a modern twist that’s easy to make and share. Its soft pull-apart texture and warm cinnamon sugar coating create a comforting treat perfect for any time of day.
With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s a recipe we can rely on to impress family and friends alike. Whether served fresh or reheated, it’s sure to become a beloved addition to our baking repertoire.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Cinnamon Sugar Donut Sweet Bread different from regular bread?
Cinnamon Sugar Donut Sweet Bread has a soft, pull-apart texture and is coated with cinnamon sugar, mimicking classic donut flavors without frying. It offers a sweet, fluffy bread experience perfect for breakfast or brunch.
Do I need special equipment to bake this bread?
Basic baking tools like mixing bowls, measuring cups, a stand mixer with a dough hook, and a loaf pan are essential. Optional items like a thermometer and timer can improve the process but aren’t required.
Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough through the first rise and refrigerate it overnight. This enhances the flavor and allows for convenient baking the next day.
How do I store the Cinnamon Sugar Donut Sweet Bread?
Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days, refrigerate for up to a week, or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat to enjoy the best texture and flavor.
What’s the best way to serve this sweet bread?
Serve it warm, fresh from the oven or reheated. It pairs well with coffee, hot chocolate, or chai tea and can be enjoyed plain or with ice cream and sauces for dessert.
Is this recipe suitable for beginners?
Yes! The recipe is straightforward, doesn’t require frying, and includes clear step-by-step instructions for mixing, rising, shaping, and baking.
How long does the baking process take?
The baking time is approximately 30-35 minutes at the recommended temperature, until the bread turns golden brown and cooked through.
Can I adjust the cinnamon sugar coating?
Absolutely! You can adjust the ratio of cinnamon to sugar to make it sweeter or spicier according to your taste preferences.