Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread: The Ultimate Guide to Baking Success

If you’re looking for a cozy and delicious treat that brings smiles to everyone around the table, then you have to try this Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread: The Ultimate Guide to Baking Success. It’s a wonderful blend of rich bread pudding with a delightful cinnamon sugar coating that will remind you of your favorite donut shop. I love how this recipe can be enjoyed any time of day—whether it’s a sweet breakfast, a comforting brunch, or even dessert after dinner. Trust me, once you make it, it will become a cherished staple in your home!

This recipe is not only decadent but also incredibly simple to whip up. You can prepare it ahead of time, making it perfect for family gatherings or busy weeknights when you just want something special without too much fuss. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone loves the sweet cinnamon flavor; it’s sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it the night before and simply bake when you’re ready to serve—a real time-saver!
• Deliciously Decadent: The combination of rich bread pudding and spiced cinnamon sugar creates an indulgent dish that feels special.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve warm drizzled with butter sauce or let guests dip their pieces for an interactive treat!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients! This recipe uses everyday items that are easy to find at your local grocery store. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Bread Pudding

• 1 loaf (1 pound) challah or brioche bread, preferably a day old
• 8 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Pinch of salt

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

For the Butter Sauce

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
• 1 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Variations

This Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations to get creative with:

• Add Fresh Fruits: Throw in some diced apples or berries for added flavor and texture.
• Try Different Breads: Use leftover bagels or croissants instead of challah or brioche for a unique twist.
• Spice It Up: Experiment with spices like cardamom or ginger for a different flavor profile in your custard.
• Make It Chocolatey: Add chocolate chips to the bread mixture for a sweet indulgence that chocolate lovers will adore.

How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread: The Ultimate Guide to Baking Success

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

Tear the challah or brioche bread into 1-inch cubes. If your bread is fresh, let those cubes sit out for an hour or two so they can dry out slightly. This step helps create that lovely custardy texture when baked.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Custard

In a separate large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground nutmeg, and salt until everything is smooth and well combined. This custard mixture is what will soak into your bread cubes and give them that delicious richness.

Step 3: Combine Bread and Custard

Pour the custard mixture evenly over the torn bread cubes. Gently toss them together to coat every piece. You want each cube to soak up that dreamy custard goodness!

Step 4: Chill It Out

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours—or better yet, overnight! This allows all those flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 5: Make the Cinnamon Sugar Mixture

In a medium bowl, combine the granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Whisk until everything is well blended and set aside; this will create that irresistible topping.

Step 6: Prepare the Butter Sauce

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Stir in the packed light brown sugar and heavy cream until everything is smooth. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer while stirring occasionally until it thickens slightly—this buttery goodness will elevate your dish even more!

Step 7: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while preparing your baking dish by greasing it with butter or cooking spray.

Step 8: Bake It Up!

Pour your soaked bread mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Bake in your preheated oven for about 45-55 minutes until golden brown and set; trust your nose—it will smell divine!

Step 9: Cool Down & Sprinkle

Once baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly for about 10-15 minutes. While still warm, generously sprinkle that delightful cinnamon sugar mixture on top.

Step 10: Serve & Enjoy!

Cut your cinnamon sugar donut bread into squares or rectangles. Serve warm with drizzles of butter sauce on top or on the side for dipping—everyone will want seconds!

Now you’re all set to enjoy this delightful treat! Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread: The Ultimate Guide to Baking Success

Baking can be a rewarding experience, and with these pro tips, your Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread is sure to impress!

• Use Day-Old Bread: Choosing day-old challah or brioche helps the bread absorb the custard mixture better without becoming overly soggy. Fresh bread can result in a less desirable texture.

• Let It Soak: Refrigerating the bread mixture overnight allows the flavors to meld together beautifully and ensures a rich, custardy center when baked. If you’re short on time, aim for at least 2 hours.

• Check for Doneness: To ensure your bread pudding is perfectly baked, insert a knife into the center; it should come out mostly clean. This helps avoid an undercooked or overly dry dish.

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the bread pudding in advance and store it in the refrigerator before baking. When you’re ready to serve, just pop it in the oven for a quick bake!

• Adjust Spices to Taste: Feel free to tweak the amount of cinnamon and nutmeg to suit your palate. This personal touch will make your dish truly your own!

How to Serve Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread: The Ultimate Guide to Baking Success

Serving up this delightful Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread is all about presentation! Here are some creative ideas that will elevate its appeal.

Garnishes

• Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds sweetness and a charming visual contrast against the warm bread.

• Fresh Berries: Placing a handful of fresh berries like strawberries or blueberries on top not only adds color but also a refreshing tartness that complements the richness of the dish.

Side Dishes

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing balance and enhances your brunch experience.

• Yogurt Parfait: Layering yogurt with granola and fruit offers a creamy contrast that pairs beautifully with the sweet bread pudding.

• Maple Syrup: A drizzle of pure maple syrup brings an extra layer of sweetness that can be customized according to your taste preferences.

• Coffee or Tea: Serving this decadent dish with a warm cup of coffee or herbal tea creates a cozy atmosphere perfect for breakfast or brunch gatherings.

With these serving suggestions, you’ll create an inviting spread that makes every bite of your Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread even more enjoyable!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep. You can easily make it ahead of time, ensuring that you have a delightful breakfast or dessert ready whenever you need it.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the bread pudding to cool completely after baking.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Once cooled, cut the bread pudding into individual portions.
• Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for the best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen pieces in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the bread pudding in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can reheat slices in the microwave for about 30-60 seconds.

FAQs

If you’re curious about making this delightful treat, here are some questions others often ask:

Can I use another type of bread for the Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread?

Yes! While challah and brioche are recommended for their richness, you can use any sturdy bread, such as French or even a good-quality whole wheat bread. Just ensure it’s slightly stale for best results!

What makes this Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread so special?

The combination of creamy custard-soaked bread topped with a decadent cinnamon sugar coating makes this recipe truly irresistible! It’s like having donuts and bread pudding all in one scrumptious dish.

How do I store leftover Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze individual portions wrapped tightly in plastic.

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe brings joy and warmth to your kitchen! The Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread is not just a dish; it’s an experience filled with sweetness and comfort. Whether you’re serving it at brunch or enjoying it as a late-night treat, I invite you to try your hand at making this delightful recipe. Happy baking!