Cinnamon Donut Loaf (Print Version)
Moist cinnamon-sugar loaf with a buttery donut-inspired crust, ideal for breakfast or a sweet treat.
# What You'll Need:
→ Loaf Batter
01 - 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
02 - ¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar
03 - 2 tsp baking powder
04 - ½ tsp baking soda
05 - ½ tsp salt
06 - 1 tsp ground cinnamon
07 - 2 large eggs
08 - ¾ cup (180 ml) whole milk
09 - ½ cup (113 g) unsalted butter, melted and cooled
10 - 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
→ Cinnamon Sugar Topping
11 - ¼ cup (56 g) unsalted butter, melted
12 - ⅓ cup (65 g) granulated sugar
13 - 1 tsp ground cinnamon
# How to Make It:
01 - Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the long sides for easy removal.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon until evenly distributed.
03 - In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, whole milk, melted and cooled butter, and vanilla extract until smooth and well blended.
04 - Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently with a spatula until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the crumb tender.
05 - Transfer the batter to the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula for an even surface.
06 - Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown.
07 - Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then lift it out using the parchment overhang and transfer to a wire rack.
08 - While the loaf is still warm, brush the top and all sides generously with melted butter using a pastry brush.
09 - In a small bowl, mix the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Sprinkle and gently pat the mixture over the buttered surfaces until evenly coated.
10 - Allow the loaf to cool completely on the wire rack before slicing into 8 even portions.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- The cinnamon sugar topping melts into the crust and creates that authentic donut shop experience without any fuss.
- It uses everyday pantry ingredients and comes together in one bowl, which means you can decide to bake it and be eating it within the hour.
02 -
- Overmixing the batter is the fastest way to turn a fluffy loaf into something rubbery, so treat folding like a gentle conversation rather than a workout.
- Applying the butter and cinnamon sugar while the loaf is still warm is critical, because once it cools the sugar will not adhere properly and you will lose that signature donut crust.
03 -
- Pat the cinnamon sugar onto the loaf with your hands instead of just sprinkling, because pressing it in creates a thicker, more even crust that crunches when you bite.
- Measure the flour by spooning it into the cup and leveling with a knife, since scooping directly from the bag can add up to 25 percent extra flour and ruin the texture.