Cinnamon Donut Bread – The Sweet Twist You Didn’t Know You Needed

When two comfort food favorites collide—fluffy donuts and rich cinnamon bread—you get a heavenly treat known as Cinnamon Donut Bread. This cozy, sugar-crusted loaf brings the warm spice of cinnamon, the tender bite of a donut, and the simplicity of a quick bread all in one. Whether you serve it for breakfast, dessert, or a midday indulgence, this treat checks all the boxes: soft inside, crunchy outside, and loaded with sweet cinnamon goodness.

Loved by families and trending across baking blogs, cinnamon donut bread is rising fast as a must-try recipe. If you’ve ever had Dollywood’s legendary cinnamon bread, you know how addicting this flavor combo can be. But this version takes it further by merging it with donut-style richness.

Don’t miss our Crescent Roll Cinnamon Rolls Recipe for a fast cinnamon-flavored breakfast idea.

PART 1: What is Cinnamon Donut Bread?

The fusion of cinnamon bread and donuts

Cinnamon donut bread is exactly what it sounds like—a tender loaf cake inspired by both donuts and cinnamon rolls. It’s typically baked in a loaf pan and coated with a sugar-cinnamon crust, offering the texture of a moist cake and the nostalgic flavor of classic donuts.

Why this dessert is gaining popularity

Thanks to viral baking videos and its easy prep, cinnamon donut bread has become a go-to for home bakers. It doesn’t require any frying like traditional donuts and skips the yeast proofing that cinnamon rolls need. The result? A fluffy, fragrant loaf you can whip up in under an hour.

PART 2: Ingredients in Cinnamon Donut Bread

Basic ingredients list and pantry swaps

One of the best things about cinnamon donut bread is how simple the ingredient list is. Most of the items are already in your pantry, making it an easy go-to recipe any time of the week. Here’s a look at the core ingredients:

• All-purpose flour – It gives the loaf structure and holds everything together. You can use whole wheat for a nuttier taste.
• Sugar – Granulated sugar is used in both the batter and the cinnamon-sugar topping.
• Butter – Melted butter provides richness and moisture. Unsalted is preferred so you can control the salt.
• Eggs – Help bind the dough and add structure.
• Milk or buttermilk – Adds softness. Buttermilk gives it a tangy kick that pairs well with the cinnamon.
• Cinnamon – The star of the show. Use Saigon cinnamon for extra punch.
• Baking powder & baking soda – These leavening agents create that fluffy, cake-like texture.
• Vanilla extract – Just a touch deepens the flavor.

For a healthier twist, try coconut sugar instead of granulated sugar or almond milk instead of dairy milk. Need it dairy-free? Swap butter with coconut oil and use a plant-based milk.

Why cinnamon and sugar are essential for flavor

The cinnamon-sugar blend creates that irresistible sweet crust that mimics fried donuts. As it bakes, the sugar caramelizes slightly, giving the loaf a golden, crisp edge while keeping the inside tender. Some bakers even coat the finished loaf with more cinnamon sugar or a vanilla glaze.

Discover great ideas like this Cheesy Garlic Pull Apart Bread if you’re a fan of warm, gooey loaves.

Whether you’re baking for a cozy brunch or prepping something sweet for the week, these ingredients make cinnamon donut bread a guaranteed hit.

PART 3: How to Make Cinnamon Donut Bread at Home

Step-by-step instructions for baking perfection

Making cinnamon donut bread is a breeze. You don’t need a mixer—just two bowls and a whisk. Here’s a simplified process:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×5 loaf pan.
2. Mix your dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
3. In another bowl, whisk sugar, eggs, melted butter, milk (or buttermilk), and vanilla.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients, mixing gently until just combined—don’t overmix!
5. Pour half the batter into the pan, sprinkle cinnamon-sugar in the middle, then pour the rest on top.
6. Add more cinnamon sugar on top for a crunchy crust.
7. Bake for 45–55 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
8. Let cool for 10 minutes before removing from the pan.

Tips for keeping it moist and fluffy

Use room-temperature ingredients, especially eggs and milk. Don’t skip the buttermilk if you want that classic donut tang. For extra moistness, fold in a couple of tablespoons of sour cream or yogurt.

Buttermilk reacts with baking soda to create a lighter texture, thanks to its acidity. Explore the science of buttermilk in baking on King Arthur Baking.

PART 4: Donut Dough vs. Cinnamon Roll Dough

Texture and ingredient differences

Donut dough is typically enriched with eggs and milk, but it’s designed to be fried, which gives it a chewy bite and golden crust. Cinnamon roll dough is more buttery and soft—perfect for baking.

Cinnamon donut bread borrows from both. It has the richness of donut dough without frying and the cinnamon swirl of a roll, minus the yeast.

Which works better for this recipe?

For baked breads, cinnamon roll-style dough offers a more tender, moist crumb. The donut inspiration comes more from the flavor and crust than the dough itself. That’s why most home recipes use a quick bread base with donut-style sugar topping—it’s faster, easier, and just as delicious.

PART 5: Variations of Cinnamon Donut Bread

Mini muffin versions, loaf vs. bundt options

Cinnamon donut bread isn’t just a one-style wonder. You can shape it however you like! Pour the batter into a muffin tin for bite-sized cinnamon donut muffins—bake for about 15–18 minutes and roll them in cinnamon sugar right after baking.

Prefer something a little fancier? Use a Bundt pan for a show-stopping cinnamon donut cake. Just be sure to grease the pan well, as the sugar can caramelize and stick. For a classic, everyday version, the loaf pan remains the easiest and most family-friendly choice.

You can also layer a cream cheese swirl or apple chunks into the batter for extra flavor.

Gluten-free and dairy-free alternatives

To go gluten-free, swap the all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour mix. For dairy-free, replace butter with melted coconut oil and milk with almond, oat, or soy milk.

No matter the version, the warm cinnamon flavor stays at the heart of every variation.

PART 6: Dollywood’s Famous Cinnamon Bread – What’s the Hype?

Why it’s the park’s most iconic snack

Dollywood’s cinnamon bread isn’t just food—it’s a full-on experience. Served warm from The Grist Mill, the pillowy-soft loaf is soaked in butter, rolled in cinnamon sugar, and often dipped in icing or apple butter. Visitors say it’s a must-eat on every trip.

How much is Dollywood cinnamon bread and where to get it

As of this year, Dollywood cinnamon bread typically costs $6.99 to $8.99, depending on the toppings. You’ll find it at The Grist Mill, Spotlight Bakery, and other bakery spots inside the park. And yes, it’s worth every bite—many fans even try to recreate it at home!

PART 7: Serving and Storing Cinnamon Donut Bread

Best toppings and glazes

The beauty of cinnamon donut bread is that it’s delicious straight out of the pan—but the right topping can take it to the next level. One of the most popular finishes is a simple vanilla glaze made with powdered sugar, milk, and a drop of vanilla extract. Drizzle it over the cooled loaf for a bakery-style look.

Another hit is brushing melted butter over the top as it comes out of the oven, then rolling the loaf in cinnamon sugar for that donut-shop crunch. If you’re feeling fancy, a cream cheese frosting adds richness that pairs beautifully with the cinnamon.

Want to go savory-sweet? Try serving slices warm with a pat of salted butter—it balances the sugar and adds that “can’t-stop-eating” flavor.

How to store, freeze, and reheat leftovers

Cinnamon donut bread stays fresh for about 3 days at room temperature if you store it properly. Wrap the loaf in foil or place it in an airtight container. For longer storage, freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic and foil, then put them in a zip-top bag.

To reheat, microwave a slice for 10–15 seconds or warm it in the oven at 300°F for 5–8 minutes. Glazed versions may melt slightly, but the flavor stays amazing.

If you’re planning to make it ahead for brunch or a gathering, bake the day before, store tightly wrapped, and add glaze just before serving. It’s the kind of loaf that’s just as good on day two—if it lasts that long.

PART 8: Nutritional Info & Allergen Tips

Calories, sugar, and fat breakdown

Let’s talk numbers. A standard slice of cinnamon donut bread (without glaze) comes in around 230–260 calories, depending on the ingredients used. It typically contains about 10–12g of fat, 30–35g of carbs, and 14–18g of sugar. Add glaze or frosting and that jumps a bit—but hey, it’s a treat!

If you’re mindful of your intake, consider halving the sugar in the recipe or using alternatives like coconut sugar or monk fruit sweetener. You can also replace part of the butter with unsweetened applesauce to cut fat.

Allergy swaps and health-conscious substitutions

Got allergies? No problem. This recipe can be customized in several ways:

• Egg-free: Use flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water) or a commercial egg replacer.
• Dairy-free: Substitute with plant-based milk (like almond or oat) and use vegan butter or coconut oil.
• Gluten-free: A 1:1 gluten-free flour blend works great—just avoid overmixing to prevent a gummy texture.
• Nut-free: This recipe doesn’t contain nuts unless you add them in. Always double-check your flour and butter brands for allergen warnings.

With a few smart swaps, you can enjoy this cinnamon treat even on a restricted diet—without sacrificing taste. And if you’re looking for more comfort bread ideas, check out this Cheesy Garlic Pull Apart Bread, too!

PART 9: Cinnamon Donut Bread Recipe Card (Tasty Card Format)

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1½ tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp salt

Wet Ingredients

• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup buttermilk or milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Cinnamon Sugar Filling & Topping

• ¼ cup sugar
• 1 tbsp cinnamon
• 2 tbsp melted butter (for topping)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. Mix flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt in a bowl.
3. In another bowl, whisk melted butter, sugar, eggs, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
4. Slowly fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until combined—do not overmix.
5. Pour half the batter into the pan. Sprinkle with half the cinnamon-sugar mix.
6. Add remaining batter, then top with the rest of the cinnamon sugar.
7. Drizzle melted butter over the top.
8. Bake for 45–55 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
9. Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Tips

• For extra moisture, add 2 tbsp sour cream to the batter.
• For a glazed finish, mix ½ cup powdered sugar with 1 tbsp milk and drizzle after baking.

Yields: 1 loaf (8–10 slices)
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 50 mins
Total Time: 1 hour

FAQs

Conclusion

If you’re craving something sweet, cozy, and easy to make, Cinnamon Donut Bread is your perfect go-to. It combines the fluffy comfort of cinnamon rolls with the sugary crunch of donuts—all in one warm, irresistible loaf. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is simple enough to master and impressive enough to serve at brunches, holidays, or casual family breakfasts.

The real beauty of cinnamon donut bread lies in its versatility. You can make it gluten-free, dairy-free, or even eggless, all while keeping that classic cinnamon-sugar flavor intact. Plus, it stores and reheats beautifully—meaning you can enjoy it fresh out of the oven or save slices for a quick treat throughout the week.

Inspired by fan-favorite treats like Dollywood’s cinnamon bread, this homemade version brings that same rich, nostalgic taste straight to your kitchen without the theme park lines.

And if you’re looking to expand your baking game, don’t miss our Crescent Roll Cinnamon Rolls Recipe for another easy cinnamon fix.

Whether served with coffee, glazed for dessert, or sliced warm with butter, cinnamon donut bread is one of those recipes you’ll come back to again and again.