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Make your home smell like a donut shop with this mouthwatering cinnamon bread loaf. Every bite delivers the classic taste of cinnamon sugar donuts without the hassle of frying. We've spent hours in the kitchen getting this just right - you'll love the super soft texture and those pretty cinnamon swirls that pack flavor into each slice.
Buttermilk is the secret weapon here - it's what gives this bread that melt-in-your-mouth softness that'll remind you of fresh donuts. Warm it up and you won't believe it didn't come from a bakery.
Essential Ingredients
- Buttermilk: Makes everything soft and adds a little tang to cut the sweetness
- Molasses: Gives the cinnamon swirl those yummy caramel undertones
- Oil and Butter Combo: Keeps things moist while adding that can't-beat butter taste
- Top-quality Cinnamon: Try Vietnamese cinnamon if you can find it for extra punch
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Cooking Steps
- Base Batter:
- Start by sifting the dry stuff. Beat your fats with sugar until light and airy. Add eggs one at a time. Switch between adding flour mix and buttermilk, don't overmix.
- Cinnamon Mixture:
- Take some batter out. Mix in brown sugar, cinnamon, and molasses until just mixed together.
- Assembly:
- Put half the plain batter in, drop spoonfuls of cinnamon mixture, swirl around. Do the same thing again with remaining batters.
This whole thing started when I was stuck inside on a cold day craving donuts but didn't want to go out.
Perfect Baking Temperature
Keep your oven steady at 350°F so everything cooks evenly and gets that nice golden color.
Making Beautiful Swirls
Don't go crazy with the swirling - less mixing means you'll see those pretty marble patterns better.
Getting Ready Ahead
You can mix up the cinnamon-sugar coating early, but wait to put it on until you're about to serve.
Ways To Enjoy
It's amazing warm, or use leftover slices to make incredible French toast the next day.
Expert Advice
- Take ingredients out of the fridge ahead of time
- Real buttermilk makes all the difference in taste
- Let it sit for exactly 10 minutes before taking it out of the pan
Nothing beats the smell of cinnamon and sugar filling up your kitchen. This bread turns regular mornings into something special, and it's even better when you've got family around to share it with.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → What’s the point of alternating ingredients?
- Mixing wet and dry in turns keeps the batter from getting tough, so your loaf stays soft.
- → What’s a buttermilk substitute I can use?
- Combine regular milk with 1/2 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5 minutes.
- → What’s the quick way to know it’s done?
- Poke the center with a toothpick. If it comes out nearly clean with crumbs, it’s baked through.
- → Can I freeze this loaf for later?
- Yep! Wrap it tight and store for three months. Add the sugar coating fresh after it thaws.
- → Why cool down before adding the topping?
- Letting it rest for at least 10 minutes helps the bread stay intact when coating.