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Cinnamon Donut Bread

Cinnamon Donut Bread

Cinnamon Donut Bread is a soft, sweet, and comforting bread loaf featuring layers of cinnamon sugar swirls that deliver a nostalgic and irresistible flavor. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or gifting, this easy-to-make baked treat combines tender texture with warm spices for a versatile and delightful indulgence suitable for bakers of all levels.

Ingredients

Scale

Dough Ingredients

  • 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F / 43°C)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tsp salt

Cinnamon Sugar Swirl

  • 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted (for brushing)
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tbsp ground cinnamon

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dough: Warm the milk and melt the butter, then combine them in a large mixing bowl with the yeast and sugar. Add the flour, egg, and salt, mixing until a smooth dough forms. Knead gently on a floured surface for about 8 minutes until elastic and soft.
  2. First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free spot until doubled in size, approximately 1 to 1.5 hours.
  3. Create the Cinnamon Swirl: Roll the dough out into a rectangle. Brush the surface evenly with melted butter, then sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture evenly over the dough, ensuring every bite will have cinnamon flavor.
  4. Roll and Shape: Carefully roll the dough jelly-roll style into a log. Slice the roll into thick pieces and arrange the slices upright in a greased loaf pan to create swirled layers.
  5. Second Rise and Bake: Let the assembled loaf rise again until puffy. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the bread for 35-40 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through. Allow to cool slightly before serving to enhance flavor.

Notes

  • Use fresh, active yeast for reliable rising.
  • Knead the dough enough to develop gluten for softness, but avoid over-kneading to prevent toughness.
  • Distribute cinnamon sugar evenly to avoid dry spots or overly sweet bites.
  • Keep dough in a warm, draft-free environment to speed up rising times.
  • Allow the bread to cool partially before slicing to maintain structure and texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: Cinnamon Donut Bread, Cinnamon Sugar Bread, Sweet Bread, Cinnamon Swirl Bread, Breakfast Bread