If you’re in the mood for the ultimate sweet treat that tastes like your favorite donut crossed with cozy coffee cake, get ready to fall in love with Cinnamon Swirl Donut Bread. In every slice, you get that tender crumb of homemade bread, rich buttery swirls of cinnamon, and a crisp, sugary topping reminiscent of a classic bakery donut. Whether served for brunch, dessert, or a special snack, this crowd-pleasing loaf packs all the comfort of cinnamon rolls with none of the fuss.

Cinnamon Swirl Donut Bread Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Cinnamon Swirl Donut Bread captures bakery-level flavor using simple, everyday ingredients you probably have on hand. Each ingredient contributes an essential role in creating a tender, aromatic loaf with that irresistible sugary crunch on top.

All-purpose flour: Provides structure while keeping the crumb soft and sliceable.
Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create that classic donut bread crust.
Buttermilk: Tangy and rich; it makes the bread extra moist and tender.
Canola oil: Ensures a soft, melt-in-your-mouth bite in every slice.
Unsalted butter (softened for bread, melted for topping): Adds flavor, moisture, and gives the bread and topping their irresistible richness.
Eggs: Bind everything together and lend a soft, cakey texture.
Vanilla extract: Makes the flavor profile rounder and more comforting.
Baking powder: Gives your loaf the perfect lift, so it’s never dense.
Salt: Brings balance and sharpens the sweet, spiced notes.
Brown sugar: Delivers caramel-like depth, especially in the swirl and topping.
Ground cinnamon: The star spice, weaving warm sweetness through every layer.
Molasses: Boosts color and lends a deep, bakery-style flavor to the swirl.

For the topping: Extra unsalted butter (melted), granulated sugar, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon come together to create a crispy, sugary coating that makes every bite taste just like a classic donut.

How to Make Cinnamon Swirl Donut Bread

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). This gives you just the right amount of time to prepare your batter while the oven heats up. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with a bit of butter or a spritz of non-stick spray so you can remove your Cinnamon Swirl Donut Bread without any sticking drama.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Sifting helps keep the crumb tender and prevents any clumps, ensuring your loaf bakes up nice and light.

Step 3: Cream the Base Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, beat together the canola oil, softened butter, and granulated sugar using an electric mixer. You’ll want to blend until the mixture is pale and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. This step gives the bread its soft, cake-like base.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Next, beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully mixed before adding the next. Pour in the vanilla extract and blend until smooth and glossy—this base is what makes Cinnamon Swirl Donut Bread so decadent.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

With your mixer on low, gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in three parts, alternating with the buttermilk. Begin and end with the flour mix, folding gently just until combined. This helps keep the loaf airy and moist.

Step 6: Create the Cinnamon Swirl

Scoop out about three-fourths of a cup of your batter into a small bowl. Stir in the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and molasses until beautifully combined. This spiced mixture is what gives the bread its signature swirl and caramel undertones.

Step 7: Layer the Batter

Pour half of the plain batter into your prepared loaf pan and spread it in an even layer. Drop half of the cinnamon swirl mixture in little spoonfuls over the top, then use a knife or toothpick to gently swirl it through the batter, creating dramatic ribbons of spice.

Step 8: Add Remaining Batter and Swirl Again

Spread the rest of the plain batter over your marbled layer, then repeat with the remaining cinnamon swirl mixture. Swirl again—don’t overdo it, so you keep those distinct, beautiful streaks throughout the loaf!

Step 9: Bake the Bread

Slide the loaf pan into the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; if it comes out mostly clean with just a few moist crumbs, you’re golden. Let the aroma fill your kitchen!

Step 10: Cool and Prepare the Topping

Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. During this time, melt the remaining butter in a shallow dish. In a separate dish, mix the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon for the topping.

Step 11: Coat the Bread

Carefully remove the bread from the pan and set it on a wire rack. While it’s still slightly warm, gently dip each side in melted butter, then press into the cinnamon-sugar mixture until every surface is gorgeously coated. Allow the Cinnamon Swirl Donut Bread to cool completely before slicing—if you can wait that long!

How to Serve Cinnamon Swirl Donut Bread

Garnishes

Add a light dusting of powdered sugar just before serving for extra sweetness and a pretty finish. For an impressive touch, drizzle a simple vanilla icing or a bit of honey over the slices. If berries are in season, a few on the side add color and a bit of tartness to balance the sweetness.

Side Dishes

Cinnamon Swirl Donut Bread is fabulous with a steaming mug of coffee or chai, or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an easy dessert. Serve it with a creamy Greek yogurt parfait at brunch, or pair with sliced fruit for a balanced breakfast platter.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut the loaf into thick, rustic slices and arrange on a wooden board with bowls of fresh fruit, or toast slices and serve with whipped cream for an indulgent treat. Try stacking cut cubes into a trifle with layered custard and berries, or transform leftovers into elevated French toast.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap Cinnamon Swirl Donut Bread tightly in plastic wrap or keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. The topping stays crisp and the crumb remains soft, making it easy to grab a sweet snack whenever you crave it.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap the cooled, unglazed loaf (or individual slices) in two layers of plastic wrap, then add a layer of foil. Store in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, let thaw at room temperature and refresh with a quick warm-up if desired.

Reheating

For best results, warm slices in a 300°F oven for about 8 minutes or briefly in the microwave. This brings back the softness and revives the irresistible cinnamon aroma. If desired, brush with a touch more melted butter and a pinch of cinnamon sugar before serving.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of milk?

Absolutely! While buttermilk gives Cinnamon Swirl Donut Bread a classic tenderness and slight tang, whole milk or even a dairy-free alternative like almond milk will work, though the crumb may be a little less rich.

What if I don’t have molasses?

You can substitute maple syrup, honey, or golden syrup for molasses in the swirl layer. Each will add its own subtle nuance, but the bread will still deliver that comforting, doughnut-shop vibe.

Can I add nuts or raisins?

Go for it! Chopped pecans, walnuts, or a handful of raisins mixed into the batter or sprinkled in the swirl add delightful texture and a bit of extra heartiness. Adjust quantities to your taste.

How do I keep the topping from getting soggy?

Make sure the bread is only slightly warm, not hot, when you coat it in the melted butter and sugar mixture. Allowing the loaf to cool completely helps lock in the crisp sugary shell.

Can I double the recipe?

Definitely! Cinnamon Swirl Donut Bread doubles beautifully. Just bake in two loaf pans and keep an eye on them in the oven, as larger batches may need just a few minutes longer to bake through.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite as welcoming as the scent and flavor of homemade Cinnamon Swirl Donut Bread wafting through your kitchen. It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing loaf you’ll want to make and share again and again. Gather your ingredients and give it a try — you’re in for a treat that’s pure comfort in every bite!