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There's something magical about pulling a freshly baked loaf of Cinnamon Swirl Donut Bread from the oven. This recipe transforms the beloved flavors of a classic cinnamon donut into a tender, moist bread that fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. Each slice reveals a perfect spiral of cinnamon-sugar swirled throughout, creating a treat that's both visually stunning and deliciously comforting.
I've made this bread countless times for weekend brunches and holiday gatherings. My favorite memory is baking it early one Christmas morning - the heavenly aroma gently woke my family, drawing them to the kitchen with smiles on their faces.
Essential Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: Choose unbleached for better texture and a more natural flavor
- Buttermilk: The secret to achieving that tender, donut-like crumb. The tanginess balances the sweetness perfectly
- Canola oil AND butter: This dynamic duo creates an incredibly moist texture that stays fresh for days
- Pure vanilla extract: Splurge on the real thing; it makes a noticeable difference in the final flavor
- Ground cinnamon: Look for Ceylon cinnamon if possible; its sweet, complex flavor elevates the entire bread
Step-by-Step Instructions
- 1. Prepare Your Workspace
- Start with room temperature ingredients for the best texture
- Line your loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal
- Position your oven rack in the center for even baking
- 2. Mix The Base
- Cream butter and sugar until truly light and fluffy - this takes at least 5 minutes
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition
- Incorporate vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and uniform
- 3. Create The Perfect Swirl
- Layer half the plain batter in your prepared pan
- Dollop the cinnamon mixture in strategic spots
- Use a butter knife to create elegant swirls, being careful not to overmix
- Repeat with remaining batter and cinnamon mixture
- 4. Master The Bake
- Place the pan in your preheated oven
- Resist opening the oven door during the first 30 minutes
- Look for golden edges and a slight crack on top
- Test with a skewer - a few moist crumbs are perfect
- 5. Perfect The Finish
- Cool in the pan for exactly 10 minutes
- Transfer to a wire rack
- Brush with melted butter while still warm
- Dust generously with cinnamon sugar mixture
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Growing up, my grandmother always said cinnamon was nature's comfort spice. She'd sprinkle it on everything from morning toast to evening tea. This bread reminds me of those warm memories every time I bake it.
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The true beauty of this Cinnamon Swirl Donut Bread lies in its versatility. Whether enjoyed warm from the oven, toasted with butter, or transformed into French toast, it never fails to bring comfort and joy to any table.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make this bread without buttermilk?
- Yes, mix regular milk with 1 teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar as a substitute for buttermilk.
- → How long does this bread stay fresh?
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
- → Can I freeze this bread?
- Yes, wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before serving.
- → Why do you swirl the batter?
- Swirling creates beautiful layers of cinnamon throughout the bread and ensures even flavor distribution.
- → Can I skip the sugar coating?
- Yes, though the coating gives it that classic donut taste. You could dust with powdered sugar instead.