There’s something undeniably comforting about the warm aroma of cinnamon drifting through the kitchen. It wraps around you like a cozy blanket and instantly transports you to your favorite bakery on a crisp morning. This Deliciously Easy Cinnamon Donut Loaf captures all the nostalgic flavors of a classic cinnamon sugar donut—but in a soft, sliceable loaf that’s perfect for sharing.
Whether you’re serving it with your morning coffee, packing it into a lunchbox, or enjoying a sweet afternoon treat, this loaf delivers tender texture, gentle spice, and a delicate glaze that sets beautifully on top. It’s simple enough for beginner bakers yet impressive enough to serve to guests. One bite, and you’ll understand why this recipe deserves a permanent place in your baking rotation.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Soft, tender crumb with classic donut flavor
- Simple pantry ingredients you already have
- Ready in under an hour
- Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert
- Light cinnamon glaze adds the perfect sweet finish
- Beginner-friendly and easy to follow
Ingredients (With Exact Amounts)
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour – Provides structure and forms the base of the loaf.
• 1/2 cup sugar – Adds sweetness and helps create a tender texture.
• 2 tsp baking powder – Helps the loaf rise and become light and fluffy.
• 1/2 tsp salt – Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon – Brings warm, classic donut flavor.
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg – Adds subtle depth and bakery-style warmth.
• 1/2 cup milk – Moistens the batter and creates a soft crumb.
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil – Keeps the loaf moist and tender.
• 1 large egg – Binds ingredients together and adds richness.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract – Enhances sweetness and aroma.
• 1/4 cup butter, melted – Adds richness and buttery flavor.
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar – Creates the smooth cinnamon glaze.
Step-By-Step Instructions (Detailed)
1️⃣ Prepare the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Allowing the oven to fully preheat ensures even baking from the moment the loaf goes in. Lightly grease a standard loaf pan, making sure to coat the corners and sides well. This step prevents sticking and helps the loaf release cleanly after baking.
2️⃣ Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup sugar, 2 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon, and 1/4 tsp nutmeg. Whisk thoroughly to evenly distribute the leavening agents and spices. This step is important because it prevents pockets of baking powder or spice from forming in the finished loaf.
You’ll notice the cinnamon and nutmeg give the mixture a faint tan color and a lovely aroma—this is your first hint of the warm flavor to come.
3️⃣ Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the 1/2 cup milk, 1 large egg, 1 tsp vanilla extract, 1/4 cup vegetable oil, and 1/4 cup melted butter. Make sure the melted butter has cooled slightly before mixing so it doesn’t cook the egg.
Whisk until the mixture looks smooth and fully blended. The combination of oil and butter is what gives this loaf both moisture and flavor—oil keeps it soft, while butter adds richness.
4️⃣ Combine Mixtures
Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients. Using a spatula or wooden spoon, gently fold the mixture together. Stir only until just combined.
It’s important not to overmix at this stage. Overmixing develops gluten in the flour, which can make the loaf dense instead of tender. The batter should look smooth with no visible streaks of flour, but it doesn’t need to be perfectly silky.
5️⃣ Bake the Loaf
Pour the batter evenly into your prepared loaf pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top so it bakes evenly.
Place the pan in the center of the oven and bake for 30–35 minutes. Around the 30-minute mark, check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs (not wet batter), the loaf is ready.
The top should be lightly golden, and your kitchen will smell wonderfully of cinnamon and warm vanilla.
6️⃣ Cool the Loaf
Remove the loaf from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. This resting time helps the structure set, making it easier to remove without breaking.
After 10 minutes, carefully transfer the loaf to a wire rack. Let it cool completely before glazing. If the loaf is too warm, the glaze will melt and slide off rather than set nicely on top.
7️⃣ Prepare the Cinnamon Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together the 1/2 cup powdered sugar and a dash of cinnamon. The mixture should be smooth and slightly thick but pourable. If needed, stir thoroughly to remove any lumps.
This glaze is what transforms the loaf from simple cinnamon bread into a true donut-inspired treat.
8️⃣ Glaze and Serve
Once the loaf has cooled completely, drizzle the glaze evenly over the top. You can use a spoon to create a decorative drizzle or spread it more evenly for a thicker coating.
Allow the glaze to set for about 10–15 minutes before slicing. This ensures clean slices and a beautiful finish. Serve thick slices on their own or with a cup of coffee or tea.
Variations & Customizations
Extra Cinnamon Swirl
Before baking, sprinkle a light layer of cinnamon and sugar over the batter and gently swirl it with a knife. This creates a marbled interior and adds an extra burst of flavor.
Donut-Style Coating
Instead of glazing, brush the warm loaf lightly with melted butter and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar. This mimics the coating of a traditional cake donut.
Mini Loaves or Muffins
Divide the batter into mini loaf pans or muffin tins for individual servings. Adjust baking time accordingly, checking for doneness earlier.
Thicker Glaze Finish
For a more bakery-style appearance, let the first layer of glaze set and then drizzle a second layer on top for extra sweetness and visual appeal.
Toasted Serving Style
Lightly toast slices before serving and spread with a small amount of butter for a crisp exterior and soft center.
FAQ
Can I make this loaf ahead of time?
Yes, this loaf stores beautifully. Once fully cooled, wrap it tightly and keep it at room temperature for up to 2 days. The flavor often deepens slightly by the next day.
How do I know if I overmixed the batter?
If the loaf turns out dense or slightly tough instead of soft and tender, overmixing may be the cause. Stir only until the ingredients are just combined.
Can I freeze this cinnamon donut loaf?
Absolutely. Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before glazing or serving.
Why did my glaze soak into the loaf?
This usually happens if the loaf was still warm when glazed. Make sure it is completely cool so the glaze can sit on top and set properly.
How should I slice the loaf cleanly?
Use a sharp serrated knife and wipe it clean between slices if needed. This helps maintain neat edges and keeps the glaze intact.
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Nutrition & Time Table
| Detail | Amount |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 35 minutes |
| Total Time | 45 minutes |
| Calories | 280 kcal |
| Protein | 3 g |
| Carbohydrates | 36 g |
| Fat | 14 g |
Deliciously Easy Cinnamon Donut Loaf
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Description
A soft, tender cinnamon donut loaf topped with a sweet glaze. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy afternoon treat.
Ingredients
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup butter, melted
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. In another bowl, whisk milk, egg, vanilla extract, vegetable oil, and melted butter.
4. Gradually mix wet ingredients into dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 30–35 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Cool in pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. Whisk powdered sugar with a dash of cinnamon to make glaze.
8. Drizzle glaze over cooled loaf, let set, then slice and serve.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 280 kcal
