Cinnamon Donut Loaf: A Deliciously Easy Recipe to Satisfy Your Sweet Cravings

Cinnamon Donut Loaf is a delightful twist on the classic donut, bringing the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon and sugar into a moist, tender loaf that’s perfect for any occasion. As I baked this recipe, I couldn’t help but think about the rich history of cinnamon in baking, which dates back centuries and has been cherished in various cultures around the world. This Cinnamon Donut Loaf not only captures the essence of those beloved donuts but also offers a convenient way to enjoy them without the fuss of frying.

People adore this dish for its irresistible aroma and the delightful texture that combines the best of both worlds: the soft crumb of a loaf and the sweet, crunchy topping reminiscent of a freshly glazed donut. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a cozy dessert, this Cinnamon Donut Loaf is sure to become a favorite in your home. Join me as we dive into this scrumptious recipe that’s bound to bring smiles and satisfaction to your table!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup granulated sugar (for topping)
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon (for topping)

Preparing the Batter

1. **Preheat the Oven**: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your loaf will bake evenly and rise beautifully. 2. **Prepare the Loaf Pan**: Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray. You can also line it with parchment paper for easy removal later. 3. **Mix Dry Ingredients**: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, 1 cup of granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt. Whisk these ingredients together until they are well combined. This step is crucial as it helps to evenly distribute the leavening agents and spices throughout the flour. 4. **Combine Wet Ingredients**: In another bowl, whisk together the melted butter, buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Make sure the butter is not too hot, or it might cook the eggs. You want everything to be at room temperature for the best results. 5. **Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients**: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Using a spatula or wooden spoon, gently fold the ingredients together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf, and we want it to be light and fluffy.

Cooking Process

6. **Transfer to Loaf Pan**: Once the batter is ready, pour it into the prepared loaf pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly, ensuring that the top is smooth. 7. **Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Topping**: In a small bowl, mix together the ½ cup of granulated sugar and 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon. This will create a delightful topping that adds a sweet crunch to the loaf. 8. **Add Topping**: Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture generously over the top of the batter in the loaf pan. This will create a delicious crust as it bakes. 9. **Bake the Loaf**: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s ready. If it comes out wet with batter, give it a few more minutes and check again. 10. **Cool the Loaf**: Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. This allows it to set and makes it easier to remove from the pan.

Assembling and Serving

11. **Remove from Pan**: After cooling, carefully run a knife around the edges of the loaf to loosen it. Invert the pan onto a wire rack and gently tap it to release the loaf. If you used parchment paper, you can lift it out easily. 12. **Cool Completely**: Allow the loaf to cool completely on the wire rack. This step is important as it helps the flavors to meld and the texture to set. 13. **Slice and Serve**: Once cooled, slice the loaf into thick pieces. You can serve it as is, or with a pat of butter for extra richness. This cinnamon donut loaf is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet snack throughout the day. 14. **Storage**: If you have leftovers (which is rare!), store the loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze slices for up to 2 months. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. 15. **Enjoy**: Now, it’s time to enjoy your delicious cinnamon donut loaf! The warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon and sugar will surely make this a favorite in your home. Whether you’re sharing it with family or savoring it alone with a cup of coffee, this loaf is sure to bring a smile to your face. Feel free to experiment with this recipe by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or even a glaze

Conclusion:

In summary, this Cinnamon Donut Loaf is an absolute must-try for anyone who loves the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon and sugar. The combination of a moist, tender loaf with a delightful crumb and a sweet, crunchy topping makes it a perfect treat for breakfast, brunch, or even as a cozy afternoon snack. You can serve it warm with a drizzle of icing for an extra touch of sweetness, or enjoy it plain with a cup of coffee or tea. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding some chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter for a delicious twist, or even experimenting with different spices like nutmeg or cardamom to elevate the flavor profile. The possibilities are endless! I encourage you to give this Cinnamon Donut Loaf a try and share your experience with friends and family. I would love to hear how it turns out for you! Whether you stick to the classic recipe or make your own variations, I’m sure you’ll find it to be a delightful addition to your baking repertoire. Happy baking!

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