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Buttery Cinnamon Swirl Donut Loaf with Crunchy Sugar Crust

2 from 1 vote
Cozy and comforting buttery cinnamon swirl donut loaf with a crunchy sugar crust—perfect for weekend brunch or as a sweet homemade gift.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 10 slices
Course: Breakfast, Brunch, Snack
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cinnamon Swirl Donut Loaf
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour basic baking staple
  • 1 1/2 tsp baking powder helps the loaf rise beautifully
  • 1/2 tsp salt balances the sweetness
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon the star of the show
  • 1/2 tsp nutmeg adds a subtle warm depth
  • 1 cup granulated sugar for sweetness
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted – makes it rich and tender
  • 2 large eggs bind everything together
  • 1 cup whole milk keeps the loaf moist
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract adds a lovely aroma
For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar for that crunchy crust
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon extra cinnamon goodness
  • 3 tbsp butter melted – to help the sugar stick and add richness

Equipment

  • 9x5 inch Loaf Pan
  • Mixing Bowls
  • Whisk
  • Spatula

Method
 

  1. Step 1: Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F) and grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan.
  2. Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
  3. Step 3: In a large bowl, combine sugar and melted butter; stir until smooth and creamy.
  4. Step 4: Add eggs one at a time to sugar and butter mixture, beating well after each addition.
  5. Step 5: Stir in milk and vanilla extract until blended.
  6. Step 6: Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined.
  7. Step 7: Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
  8. Step 8: Bake for 50–60 minutes; check doneness with a toothpick.
  9. Step 9: Let the loaf cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
  10. Step 10: Brush the warm loaf generously with melted butter.
  11. Step 11: Mix sugar and cinnamon; sprinkle over the buttered loaf to create a crunchy sugar crust.

Notes

Store the loaf at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving. Try swaps like almond or oat milk for dairy-free options, or add nuts or cream cheese swirl for extra texture.