Name: Cinnamon Swirl Donut Bread
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup brown sugar (for swirl); 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon (divided); 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 3/4 cup milk; 1/2 cup sour cream or yogurt; 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for optional glaze); 2-3 tablespoons milk or heavy cream (for optional glaze)

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Short Description

Cinnamon Swirl Donut Bread is a delightful fusion of two beloved treats: donuts and quick bread. This recipe brings the sweet, warm flavors of cinnamon sugar combined with a moist, tender crumb reminiscent of a cake donut. With its rich buttery taste and irresistible cinnamon swirl, this homemade bread is perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack. The best part? No yeast is required, making it an easy and quick treat to whip up anytime!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

No Yeast Required – Unlike traditional donut recipes, this bread skips the yeast, making it much faster to prepare.
Moist and Tender – The texture is soft, cake-like, and utterly delicious.
Warm Cinnamon Flavor – The swirled cinnamon sugar mixture gives every bite a burst of cozy sweetness.
Versatile – Enjoy it plain, drizzle with glaze, or serve with butter for an extra treat.
Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for breakfast, brunch, snacks, or even as a homemade gift.

Ingredients

All-purpose flour
Granulated sugar
Brown sugar
Baking powder
Baking soda
Salt
Ground cinnamon
Unsalted butter
Eggs
Vanilla extract
Milk
Sour cream or yogurt
Powdered sugar (for optional glaze)
Milk or heavy cream (for optional glaze)

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl

In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar and cinnamon.
Set aside to layer in the bread batter later.

Step 2: Prepare the Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a loaf pan.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In another bowl, melt the butter and let it cool slightly. Then, whisk in eggs, vanilla extract, milk, and sour cream or yogurt.
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 3: Layer the Batter and Cinnamon Swirl

Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
Sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the batter.
Add the remaining batter on top, followed by the rest of the cinnamon sugar mixture.
Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the cinnamon sugar into the batter, creating a marbled effect.

Step 4: Bake the Bread

Place the loaf pan in the oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 5: (Optional) Prepare the Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and a few tablespoons of milk or heavy cream until smooth.
Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bread before slicing and serving.

Variations

Nutty Addition – Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the cinnamon sugar layer for added crunch.
Chocolate Twist – Mix mini chocolate chips into the batter for a fun flavor variation.
Pumpkin Spice Version – Swap out some of the cinnamon for pumpkin spice and add a bit of canned pumpkin for a fall-inspired treat.
Maple Glaze – Substitute milk in the glaze with maple syrup for an extra depth of flavor.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 8-10 slices

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Store at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Freezing: Wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheating: Warm slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a toaster oven for a few minutes for a freshly baked taste.

FAQs

1. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version.

2. What can I use instead of sour cream?

Greek yogurt, plain yogurt, or buttermilk make excellent substitutes.

3. Can I make this bread in a muffin tin?

Yes! Pour the batter into a lined muffin tin and bake at 350°F for 18-22 minutes.

4. How do I prevent the cinnamon swirl from sinking?

Make sure the batter is thick enough and don’t over-swirl the cinnamon sugar.

5. Can I use whole wheat flour?

Yes, but it may result in a denser texture. You can try using half all-purpose and half whole wheat flour for a balance.

6. What’s the best way to achieve a strong cinnamon flavor?

Use fresh ground cinnamon and increase the quantity slightly for a more intense flavor.

7. Can I double the recipe?

Yes! Simply double all ingredients and bake in two loaf pans.

8. Do I have to use the glaze?

No, the bread is delicious on its own, but the glaze adds extra sweetness.

9. How do I know when the bread is done?

Insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean, the bread is ready.

10. Can I add raisins or dried fruit?

Absolutely! Dried fruit like raisins or cranberries would complement the cinnamon swirl beautifully.

Conclusion

Cinnamon Swirl Donut Bread is the ultimate comfort treat with its moist, tender crumb and rich cinnamon swirl. Whether enjoyed with morning coffee, as a dessert, or as an afternoon snack, this easy-to-make bread is bound to be a household favorite. Try it today and indulge in the irresistible flavors of homemade cinnamon goodness!

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