Cinnamon Swirl Donut Loaf: A Deliciously Easy Recipe to Try Today

Cinnamon Swirl Donut Loaf is a delightful treat that combines the best of both worlds: the comforting texture of a loaf and the irresistible flavor of cinnamon donuts. As I baked this recipe for the first time, the warm, sweet aroma wafted through my kitchen, instantly transporting me back to my childhood, where I would eagerly await the first bite of a freshly made donut. This recipe not only pays homage to the classic donut but also offers a convenient way to enjoy it in loaf form, making it perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack.

People love this Cinnamon Swirl Donut Loaf for its moist, tender crumb and the delightful swirl of cinnamon sugar that runs through each slice. It’s a dish that brings comfort and joy, whether enjoyed with a cup of coffee or shared with loved ones during a cozy gathering. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a standout recipe that is sure to become a favorite in your home. So, let’s dive into this delicious journey of baking a Cinnamon Swirl Donut Loaf that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup buttermilk, at room temperature
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (for the swirl)
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
• 2 tablespoons milk (for glaze)

Preparing the Batter

1. **Preheat the Oven**: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your loaf bakes evenly and rises beautifully. 2. **Prepare the Loaf Pan**: Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray. You can also line it with parchment paper for easier removal later. 3. **Mix Dry Ingredients**: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Whisk these ingredients together until they are well combined. This step is crucial as it ensures that the leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the flour. 4. **Combine Wet Ingredients**: In another bowl, whisk together the melted butter, buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Make sure the butter is not too hot, or it will cook the eggs. The mixture should be smooth and well combined. 5. **Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients**: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Using a spatula or wooden spoon, gently fold the mixture together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf.

Preparing the Cinnamon Swirl Mixture

6. **Make the Cinnamon Swirl**: In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon. This will create the sweet swirl that makes this loaf so delightful.

Assembling the Loaf

7. **Layer the Batter**: Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly. 8. **Add the Cinnamon Swirl**: Sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the batter in the pan. Use a knife or a skewer to gently swirl the mixture into the batter. Be careful not to mix it in completely; you want to create a beautiful swirl effect. 9. **Add Remaining Batter**: Pour the remaining batter on top of the cinnamon swirl layer, spreading it evenly to cover the swirl. 10. **Top with Remaining Cinnamon Swirl**: Finally, sprinkle the remaining cinnamon-sugar mixture on top of the batter. Again, use a knife to create a light swirl, but don’t overdo it.

Cooking Process

11. **Bake the Loaf**: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. The loaf is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. If the top is browning too quickly, you can tent it with aluminum foil halfway through baking. 12. **Cool the Loaf**: Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. This allows it to set and makes it easier to remove from the pan. 13. **Remove from Pan**: Carefully run a knife around the edges of the loaf to loosen it, then invert the pan to release the loaf onto a wire rack. Let it cool completely before glazing.

Preparing the Glaze

14. **Make the Glaze**: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and milk until smooth. You can adjust the consistency by adding more milk for a thinner glaze or more powdered sugar for a thicker glaze. 15. **Glaze the Loaf**: Once the loaf is completely cool, drizzle the glaze over the top. You can use a spoon or a whisk to create a beautiful pattern. Let the glaze set for a few minutes before slicing.

Serving Suggestions

16. **Slice and Serve**: Using a serr

Conclusion:

In summary, this Cinnamon Swirl Donut Loaf is an absolute must-try for anyone who loves the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon and sugar. The delightful swirl of cinnamon filling not only adds a beautiful visual appeal but also infuses each slice with a burst of flavor that will have you coming back for more. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, as an afternoon snack, or even as a dessert, this loaf is versatile enough to fit any occasion. For serving suggestions, I recommend pairing your Cinnamon Swirl Donut Loaf with a hot cup of coffee or tea to enhance the cozy experience. You can also drizzle a simple glaze on top for an extra touch of sweetness or sprinkle some chopped nuts for added crunch. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding chocolate chips or dried fruit to the batter for a unique twist that will surprise your taste buds. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and share your experience with friends and family. I would love to hear how your Cinnamon Swirl Donut Loaf turns out and any variations you come up with! Remember, baking is all about creativity and having fun in the kitchen, so don’t hesitate to make it your own. Happy baking!