This Easy Cinnamon Donut Loaf is soft, moist, and packed with warm cinnamon flavor. Finished with a simple sweet glaze, it tastes just like a classic cinnamon sugar donut in loaf form. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, dessert, or an afternoon coffee break.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Soft, moist, and fluffy texture
- Rich cinnamon flavor in every bite
- Simple pantry ingredients
- Easy to prepare in one bowl
- Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert
Ingredients
For the Loaf
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ cup milk
- 1 large egg
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup melted butter
For the Glaze
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1–2 tablespoons milk
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease or line a loaf pan with parchment paper.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together:
- Flour
- Sugar
- Baking powder
- Salt
- Cinnamon
3. Mix the Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together:
- Milk
- Egg
- Vanilla extract
- Melted butter
4. Make the Batter
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients.
Mix gently until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.
6. Prepare the Glaze
Whisk together:
- Powdered sugar
- Milk
- Cinnamon (optional)
until smooth.
Drizzle over the cooled loaf.
Allow the glaze to set before slicing.
Tips for the Best Cinnamon Donut Loaf
- Use room-temperature ingredients for a smoother batter.
- Do not overmix the batter to keep the loaf soft.
- Check for doneness with a toothpick during the last few minutes of baking.
- Let the loaf cool before glazing for the best finish.
Optional Add-Ins
Customize your loaf with:
- Chopped pecans or walnuts
- Chocolate chips
- Raisins
- Diced apples
- A cinnamon sugar swirl
- Streusel topping
Storage
Store the loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for 3 days.
Refrigerate for up to 1 week.
Freeze individual slices for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This loaf is delicious served with:
- Coffee
- Tea
- Hot chocolate
- Butter
- Cream cheese
- Vanilla ice cream
Nutrition (Approximate per Slice)
- Calories: 180
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 8g
- Sugar: 12g
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Bake the loaf a day in advance and store it in an airtight container.
Can I freeze it?
Yes. Wrap individual slices tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, but replace only half of the all-purpose flour for the softest texture.
Why is my loaf dense?
Overmixing the batter or using expired baking powder can result in a dense loaf.
Can I add nuts?
Absolutely. Pecans, walnuts, or almonds all work well in this recipe.
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