
Turn your home into a sweet-smelling bakery with this mouthwatering cinnamon donut bread. Every soft slice brings back memories of those sugar-dusted donuts we all love, but in a simple loaf. We've tried this dozens of times to get it just right - you'll love how soft it is inside with those beautiful cinnamon swirls that make every bite taste amazing.
Buttermilk's the secret weapon here - it makes the bread incredibly soft, just like fresh donuts from a shop. Grab a warm slice and you'll swear you're at your favorite donut place.
Essential Elements
- Buttermilk: Makes everything tender with a slight tang that cuts through sweetness
- Molasses: Gives the cinnamon swirl deeper, caramel-like flavors
- Oil mixed with Butter: Keeps everything moist while adding rich taste
- Top-quality Cinnamon: Try to find Vietnamese cinnamon for the strongest flavor punch

Cooking Steps
- Main Mixture:
- Run dry stuff through a sifter. Whip fats and sugar till light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time. Switch between adding flour and buttermilk, don't overmix.
- Cinnamon Blend:
- Take some batter out. Mix in brown sugar, cinnamon, and molasses until barely combined.
- Putting It Together:
- Put half the plain batter in, drop spoonfuls of cinnamon mix on top, make swirls. Do the layers again.
This all started one cold afternoon when I wanted donuts but didn't want to leave the house.
Smart Baking
Keep your oven steady at 350°F so everything cooks evenly and gets that nice golden color.
Beautiful Marbling
Don't go crazy with the swirling - less mixing means prettier marble patterns.
Do-Ahead Tricks
You can mix the cinnamon-sugar coating early, but wait to put it on until you're ready to eat.
Ways to Enjoy
It's best warm, or you can use leftover slices to make really tasty French toast.
Expert Advice
- Don't use cold ingredients straight from the fridge
- Real buttermilk works better than any substitute
- Let it sit exactly 10 minutes before taking it out of the pan
That wonderful smell of cinnamon and sugar makes ordinary mornings feel special. This bread brings such a cozy feeling to weekend breakfasts, and it's even better when you've got family around.

Frequently Asked Questions
- → Why swap wet and dry additions?
- It keeps the batter from being overmixed, which helps the loaf stay soft and airy.
- → What’s a buttermilk substitute?
- Mix regular milk with a splash of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for a few minutes.
- → How do I know it’s baked through?
- Stick a toothpick in the middle—if it comes out mostly clean, it’s done.
- → Can I freeze this loaf?
- Yes! Wrap it well and freeze for up to three months. Wait to coat it with sugar until thawed.
- → Why cool it before the coating?
- Let it sit 10 minutes so it stays firm while you dip it in butter and sugar.