Cinnamon Donut Loaf Cake (Printable version)
Moist cinnamon-spiced loaf cake with a buttery cinnamon-sugar crust, inspired by classic donuts.
# Ingredient list:
→ Loaf Batter
01 - 2 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 3/4 cup granulated sugar
03 - 2 teaspoons baking powder
04 - 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
05 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
06 - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
07 - 2 large eggs
08 - 3/4 cup whole milk
09 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
10 - 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
→ Cinnamon Sugar Topping
11 - 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
12 - 1/3 cup granulated sugar
13 - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
# Directions:
01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper, leaving overhang on the long sides for easy removal.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon until evenly distributed.
03 - In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, whole milk, melted cooled butter, and vanilla extract until smooth and well blended.
04 - Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently fold with a spatula until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the crumb tender.
05 - Scrape the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the surface with a spatula to create an even layer.
06 - Bake on the center rack for 40 to 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown.
07 - Let the loaf rest in the pan for 10 minutes, then use the parchment overhang to lift it out and transfer to a wire cooling rack.
08 - While the loaf is still warm, brush the top and sides generously with melted butter using a pastry brush, ensuring full coverage for the topping to adhere.
09 - In a small bowl, mix the sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle the mixture over the buttered loaf and gently pat it onto the sides until the entire surface is evenly coated.
10 - Allow the loaf to cool completely on the wire rack before slicing into 8 even portions.
# Expert Tips:
01 -
- The cinnamon sugar crust cracks and melts in a way that honestly rivals any real donut shop.
- It uses pantry staples and comes together so fast you will barely dirty a dish.
02 -
- Overmixing the batter is the fastest way to a tough, rubbery loaf, so stop stirring the moment everything looks combined.
- The cinnamon sugar topping needs to go on while the loaf is still warm or it will not adhere properly and you will lose that gorgeous crust.
03 -
- Check your baking powder by dropping a pinch into hot water first, if it bubbles vigorously it is still active and your loaf will rise properly.
- Pat the cinnamon sugar on with your hands rather than just sprinkling, it presses into the butter and creates a thicker, more even crust.