Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread – Soft, Sweet & Easy to Make

Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread

Few things in life compare to the joy of biting into a warm, fluffy donut rolled generously in cinnamon sugar. The comforting aroma, the golden crisp on the outside, and the melt-in-your-mouth softness inside instantly transport us back to childhood memories of bakeries, fairs, and cozy mornings. The Cinnamon Sugar Donut Breda captures all of that nostalgia in one perfect bite—a treat that feels both indulgent and heartwarming.

This isn’t just a donut—it’s a bakery-style masterpiece you can recreate at home with simple ingredients and a little patience. Whether you enjoy it with a steaming cup of coffee, serve it as a weekend brunch highlight, or surprise your family with a tray of warm donuts, this recipe delivers comfort and joy. In this guide, we’ll explore what makes these donuts special, break down the key ingredients, and walk you step-by-step through the process so you can master them in your own kitchen.

What is a Cinnamon Sugar Donut?

A cinnamon sugar donut is the very definition of a classic comfort pastry. Unlike glazed donuts, which are coated in a shiny sugar syrup, cinnamon sugar donuts are tossed in a fragrant mixture of ground cinnamon and granulated sugar while still warm from the fryer. This creates a sweet, slightly crunchy exterior that complements the pillowy, airy interior.

At its core, the donut dough is enriched with milk, butter, and eggs, giving it a soft and tender crumb. Yeast or baking powder is used as a leavening agent, ensuring the donut rises beautifully and stays light instead of dense. The final roll in cinnamon sugar adds warmth and spice without being overpowering—a perfect balance between sweetness and coziness.

What makes these donuts universally loved is their simplicity. They don’t rely on heavy frostings or fillings but instead highlight the timeless pairing of sugar and spice. Every bite feels nostalgic, reminding us of bakery counters, fall fairs, and the irresistible smell of fried dough drifting through the air.

The Meaning of “Breda”

The name “Breda” may sound intriguing if you’re unfamiliar with its background. Breda is a historic city in the Netherlands, known for its charming bakeries and pastry traditions. In some cases, recipes carry the “Breda” label to signal a regional style or origin, highlighting flavors or techniques inspired by Dutch baking.

It’s also possible that the name refers to a bakery or brand specializing in cinnamon sugar donuts. Many recipes passed down through families or tied to local cafés carry geographical tags that honor their roots. Even if you’re far from Europe, using the “Breda” name gives this donut a sense of tradition, authenticity, and cultural storytelling.

Whether or not your version is tied to Dutch heritage, Cinnamon Sugar Donut Breda represents a recipe that connects old-world pastry craft with modern home baking—bringing a touch of Europe to your kitchen.

Flavor Profile & Texture

When you bite into a Cinnamon Sugar Donut Breda, you experience layers of flavor and texture working in harmony. The first note is the crunch of cinnamon sugar—a spark of sweetness balanced with earthy spice. Then comes the soft, airy interior that practically melts on your tongue, enriched with butter, eggs, and a hint of vanilla.

The flavor profile is warm and cozy. Cinnamon, with its aromatic and slightly woody undertone, pairs beautifully with the subtle sweetness of sugar. Together, they create an inviting taste that feels like a hug in pastry form. The frying process locks in a light crispiness on the outside, while the inside remains pillowy and moist.

The aroma alone—fresh-fried dough mixed with cinnamon spice—is enough to draw anyone into the kitchen. It’s a multisensory experience that makes these donuts unforgettable.

Key Ingredients Breakdown

A great donut starts with great ingredients. Here’s what makes Cinnamon Sugar Donut Breda special:

• Flour – Provides the structure of the donut. All-purpose flour creates the right balance of softness and chewiness.

• Yeast (or baking powder) – Essential for rise. Yeast donuts develop more flavor and a tender crumb, while baking powder versions are quicker but slightly denser.

• Milk – Adds richness and moisture, keeping the dough tender.

• Butter – Contributes to flavor and texture, giving donuts their soft, rich bite.

• Eggs – Bind the dough and add lightness while enriching the flavor.

• Sugar – Sweetens the dough slightly while also feeding yeast during proofing.

• Cinnamon – The star spice. Freshly ground cinnamon has a stronger aroma and will make the coating more vibrant.

• Granulated Sugar (for coating) – Creates that signature crunchy sweetness on the outside.

• Optional Flavor Enhancers – Nutmeg adds warmth, vanilla extract deepens flavor, and a pinch of brown sugar in the dough brings caramel notes.

Pro Tip: Always use fresh spices. Ground cinnamon loses potency over time, so if your jar is more than a year old, replace it for the best results.

Tools & Equipment Needed

Making homemade donuts requires just a few kitchen essentials:

• Mixing bowls – For combining ingredients.

• Stand mixer or whisk – To mix and knead the dough efficiently.

• Rolling pin & dough cutter – For shaping donuts (a biscuit cutter works, too).

• Heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer – Ensures even heating and frying.

• Thermometer – Keeps oil at the ideal frying temperature (≈350°F / 175°C).

• Slotted spoon or tongs – Safely remove donuts from hot oil.

• Cooling rack & parchment paper – Prevents sogginess and allows sugar to adhere.

Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions

Here’s how to bring Cinnamon Sugar Donut Breda to life:

1. Prepare the Dough – In a large bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit until foamy (about 5–10 minutes). Add eggs, melted butter, and vanilla. Mix in flour gradually until a soft dough forms. Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover and let rise in a warm spot until doubled in size (about 1–2 hours).

2. Shape the Donuts – Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about ½-inch thickness. Use a round cutter (or a glass) to cut out donuts, plus a smaller cutter for holes. Place on parchment-lined trays, cover, and let rise again for 30–45 minutes.

3. Fry the Donuts – Heat oil in a deep pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry donuts in small batches, flipping halfway, until golden brown (about 1–2 minutes per side). Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on a rack.

4. Coat in Cinnamon Sugar – While still warm, roll donuts in a mixture of cinnamon and granulated sugar until fully coated.

5. Serve & Enjoy – Donuts are best enjoyed fresh the same day. Pair with coffee, hot chocolate, or tea for the ultimate cozy treat.

Pro Tip: Coat the donuts while warm, not hot, so the sugar adheres evenly without melting into clumps.

Fun Variations of Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

One of the joys of homemade donuts is how easy they are to customize. Once you master the classic cinnamon sugar coating, you can get creative with fun variations to suit different moods and occasions.

• Mini Donut Bites – Instead of shaping full-sized rings, cut the dough into small bite-sized rounds. These are perfect for snacking, packing in lunchboxes, or serving at parties.

• Baked Version – If you want a lighter option, skip the fryer and use a donut pan. Baked donuts won’t have the same deep-fried crispiness, but they’re soft, fluffy, and still delicious rolled in melted butter and cinnamon sugar.

• Stuffed Donuts – Take indulgence to the next level by filling your donuts with pastry cream, Nutella, apple pie filling, or even spiced pumpkin purée. The contrast of a soft donut with a sweet surprise inside is irresistible.

• Spiced Twists – While cinnamon sugar is classic, you can mix in other warm spices for a twist. Try pumpkin pie spice in the fall, cardamom for a Middle Eastern flair, or even a chai spice mix for a cozy winter treat.

Experimenting with these variations keeps donut-making exciting and ensures there’s always something new to share with friends and family.

Serving Ideas

Cinnamon sugar donuts shine brightest when paired with the right drinks and presentation. Enjoy them fresh with a cup of coffee, hot chocolate, or a spiced chai latte for the ultimate cozy pairing. For brunch, serve alongside fruit, yogurt, and eggs for a sweet-and-savory balance.

During the holidays, donuts make a festive treat for breakfast buffets or dessert tables. They’re also a huge hit at bake sales—especially when presented in cute paper bags or bakery boxes.

For a showstopping centerpiece, stack donuts on a cake stand or create a donut tower. Dust lightly with extra cinnamon sugar right before serving for a bakery-worthy look.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

Cinnamon sugar donuts are best enjoyed fresh—nothing beats that just-fried warmth and crispness. However, if you need to make them ahead, here are some tricks:

• Short-Term Storage – Keep donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1–2 days.

• Reheating – Warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5–7 minutes to restore their texture. Avoid microwaving for too long, as it can make them chewy.

• Freezing – You can freeze uncoated donuts once they’ve cooled. Thaw and reheat before rolling them in fresh cinnamon sugar. Alternatively, freeze the dough rounds before frying for a future fresh batch.

With these methods, you’ll never be without a sweet donut fix!

Nutrition Overview

Each homemade cinnamon sugar donut contains around 220–280 calories, depending on size and frying method. On average, expect about 30g of carbs, 10–12g of sugar, and 10–12g of fat per donut. While indulgent, donuts are meant to be enjoyed as an occasional treat. Pairing them with fresh fruit or a protein-rich breakfast can help balance out the sweetness. Remember: baking instead of frying reduces fat content slightly. These are comfort-food classics, and savoring one or two in moderation is part of the joy of homemade baking.

Expert Tips for Success

Perfect cinnamon sugar donuts come down to a few key techniques:

• Oil Temperature – Keep your frying oil between 350–365°F (175–185°C). Too low, and your donuts will be greasy; too high, and they’ll burn outside before cooking through.

• Dough Resting – Allow proper rising time for fluffy texture. Rushing fermentation leads to dense donuts.

• Cinnamon-Sugar Ratio – The classic ratio is 1 cup sugar to 1–2 tablespoons cinnamon. Adjust to taste, but make sure it’s well mixed for even coating.

• Coating Technique – Roll donuts in cinnamon sugar while still warm, not hot. If they’re too hot, the sugar melts and clumps; too cool, and it won’t stick.

• Avoiding Sogginess – Drain donuts briefly on a wire rack instead of paper towels. This prevents steam from softening their crisp surface.

Follow these tips, and your donuts will come out light, golden, and perfectly sweet every time.

FAQs

Can I bake instead of frying cinnamon sugar donuts?
Yes! Use a donut pan and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12–15 minutes. Brush baked donuts with melted butter before rolling in cinnamon sugar.

Why won’t my donuts rise properly?
This usually happens if your yeast is expired, the liquid was too hot (killing the yeast), or the dough didn’t rest long enough. Be patient with rising time for best results.

What oil is best for frying donuts?
Neutral oils like canola, vegetable, or sunflower are best. They have a high smoke point and won’t overpower the donut’s flavor. Avoid olive oil, as it can taste too strong.

Can I make them gluten-free?
Yes. Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend designed for yeast baking. The texture may be slightly denser, but they’ll still be delicious.

How do I keep the cinnamon sugar from melting off?
Roll the donuts when they’re warm (not piping hot). If needed, brush lightly with melted butter first to help the sugar adhere.

Can I make the dough the night before?
Absolutely. Let the dough rise once, then refrigerate overnight. The next day, bring to room temperature, roll, and fry. This makes them easier for morning baking.

Final Thoughts & Encouragement

Cinnamon sugar donuts are timeless for a reason—they’re simple, comforting, and universally loved. With just a few pantry staples, you can create a treat that sparks joy at breakfast, brunch, or late-night snacking. Whether you stick to the classic version or try fun variations, homemade donuts carry a special kind of nostalgia.

So go ahead—roll up your sleeves, fry up a golden batch, and dust them in cinnamon sugar magic. Share them with family, gift them to friends, or simply enjoy them warm with your favorite drink. Sweet memories are always made one donut at a time.