A Sweet, Spiced Loaf That Tastes Like a Baked Cinnamon Donut
This Cinnamon Donut Loaf is a soft, cakey treat that brings the warm, comforting flavor of cinnamon donuts into an easy-to-bake loaf. With a tender crumb, cinnamon-kissed batter, and a sweet powdered sugar glaze—it’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy afternoon snack.
No frying, no fancy tools, no stress—just pure cinnamon heaven!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- 🍪 Donut Flavor Without the Fryer: No oil or deep-frying required—just a simple batter baked in a loaf pan.
- 🍂 Cinnamon Perfection: Every bite delivers that classic cinnamon-sugar warmth.
- ⏱️ Quick & Easy: Mix, pour, bake, glaze—done in under an hour.
- 🥣 No Mixer Needed: Just a bowl and spatula—perfect for beginners.
- ❄️ Great for Meal Prep: Keeps well for days—or freeze slices for future cravings.
Ingredients (Makes 1 loaf / serves 8–10):
For the Loaf:
- 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour (or cake flour for lighter texture)
- ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon (adjust for stronger flavor)
- ½ cup (120ml) milk (dairy or plant-based like almond or oat)
- 1 large egg
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ cup (60g) unsalted butter , melted (or coconut oil for dairy-free option)
For the Cinnamon Glaze:
- ½ cup (60g) powdered sugar
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon (or more for extra spice)
- 1–2 tbsp milk or water (to adjust glaze consistency)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat Oven & Prep Pan
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) .
Grease a 8×4-inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray—set aside.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
- Flour
- Granulated sugar
- Baking powder
- Salt
- Cinnamon
Mix until evenly combined.
Step 3: Whisk Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk:
- Milk
- Egg
- Vanilla extract
- Melted butter
until smooth and slightly frothy.
Step 4: Mix Batter & Pour
Gradually add wet ingredients to dry ingredients.
Stir gently with a spatula until just combined —a few lumps are fine.
Avoid overmixing to keep the loaf light and fluffy.
Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30–35 minutes , or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes , then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6: Make the Cinnamon Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk:
- Powdered sugar
- Cinnamon
- Milk or water (add 1 tbsp at a time until desired consistency)
until smooth and drizzle-ready.
Step 7: Glaze & Serve
Once the loaf has cooled, drizzle the cinnamon glaze over the top.
Let set for 10 minutes before slicing into thick, dreamy pieces.
Each bite brings together:
- Moist, soft cakey texture
- Warm, spiced cinnamon depth
- And that sweet, sticky glaze finish
It’s like a cinnamon donut in loaf form—no fryer required!
Tips for Success:
- 🧈 Use Melted Butter: Adds richness and moisture—room-temp butter works best.
- 🥣 Don’t Overmix: A lumpy batter = lighter loaf. Mix just until combined.
- 🌿 Spice It Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg, allspice, or cardamom to the glaze for extra warmth.
- 🥗 Add Mix-Ins: Stir chopped nuts or raisins into the batter for texture.
- ❄️ Make Ahead Magic: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days—or freeze for future enjoyment.
Serving Suggestions:
- Perfect with coffee, tea, or a glass of cold milk.
- Great for breakfast, brunch, or as an afternoon snack.
- Ideal gift wrapped in parchment and tied with a bow.
Nutritional Information (per slice, makes 10 servings – approximate):
(Without mix-ins – regular ingredients used)
- Calories: ~150 kcal
- Protein: ~2g
- Carbohydrates: ~25g
- Fat: ~6g
- Fiber: ~0.5g
- Sugar: ~15g
This Cinnamon Donut Loaf proves that you don’t need a deep fryer to enjoy classic cinnamon donut flavor. With its soft crumb, warm spice, and sweet glaze—it’s a must-bake for anyone who loves cozy baked goods.
