Old fashion donut loaf
Old fashion donut loaf is a easy American recipe that serves 8. 320 calories per serving. Recipe by Brooke Ervin on YouTube.
Prep: 26 min | Cook: 55 min | Total: 1 hr 31 min
Cost: $2.96 total, $0.37 per serving
Ingredients
- 3 cups All-Purpose Flour (sifted)
- 2.5 teaspoons Granulated Sugar (for the batter)
- 2.5 teaspoons Baking Powder
- 0.25 teaspoons Salt (a pinch)
- 3 teaspoons Ground Nutmeg
- 1.25 cups Buttermilk
- 2 large Eggs (room temperature)
- 0.25 cup Sour Cream
- 0.5 cup Unsalted Butter (melted)
- 0.25 cup Granulated Sugar (for cinnamon topping)
- 2 teaspoons Ground Cinnamon (for topping)
Instructions
Preheat Oven
Set the oven to 350°F (177°C) and let it preheat while you prepare the batter.
Time: PT10M
Temperature: 350°F
Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, 2.5 tsp granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, and nutmeg until evenly distributed.
Time: PT2M
Add Wet Ingredients
Create a well in the center of the dry mix and pour in the buttermilk, cracked eggs, sour cream, and melted butter. Stir until the batter is thick and uniform; it will look more like a cake batter than a traditional bread dough.
Time: PT5M
Grease Loaf Pan
Generously grease the 9x5 inch loaf pan with butter or non‑stick spray, making sure to coat the sides and bottom.
Time: PT2M
Transfer Batter to Pan
Spoon the thick batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly with a spatula.
Time: PT2M
Bake
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown.
Time: PT55M
Temperature: 350°F
Butter the Hot Loaf
While the loaf is still hot, brush the top generously with melted butter so it soaks in and adds extra richness.
Time: PT2M
Prepare Cinnamon‑Sugar Topping
In a small bowl, combine 0.25 cup granulated sugar with 2 tsp ground cinnamon; stir until well blended.
Time: PT2M
Add Topping
Sprinkle the cinnamon‑sugar mixture evenly over the butter‑glazed loaf. Let it sit for 5 minutes so the topping adheres.
Time: PT5M
Cool and Serve
Remove the loaf from the pan onto a cooling rack, slice, and serve warm. Toasting a slice with a pat of butter enhances the donut‑like flavor.
Time: PT5M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 320
- Protein
- 8 g
- Carbohydrates
- 40 g
- Fat
- 12 g
- Fiber
- 1 g
Dietary info: Vegetarian, Contains gluten, Contains dairy
Allergens: Wheat, Eggs, Dairy
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of All-Purpose Flour: Whole Wheat Flour (will be denser)
- Instead of Granulated Sugar: Coconut sugar, Honey (reduce other liquids)
- Instead of Baking Powder: Cream of Tartar + Baking Soda (1:2 ratio)
- Instead of Salt: Sea Salt
- Instead of Ground Nutmeg: Ground Cinnamon (will change flavor)
- Instead of Buttermilk: Milk mixed with 1 tbsp lemon juice or vinegar
- Instead of Eggs: Flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water)
- Instead of Sour Cream: Greek yogurt, Crème Fraîche
- Instead of Unsalted Butter: Margarine, Coconut oil (will add flavor)
- Instead of Granulated Sugar: Brown sugar
- Instead of Ground Cinnamon: Pumpkin spice (will alter flavor)
Equipment Needed
- Mixing Bowl
- Whisk or Wooden Spoon
- 9x5 Inch Loaf Pan
- Pastry Brush (optional)
- Oven
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Cooling Rack (optional)
- Knife
- Cutting Board
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Mix batter only until just combined; over‑mixing creates a dense texture.
- Bake until a toothpick comes out clean; under‑baking leaves a gummy center.
- Brush hot loaf with melted butter before adding the cinnamon‑sugar topping.
Chef Tips from the Video
- Use room‑temperature eggs and buttermilk for a smoother batter.
- For extra donut flavor, add 1 tsp vanilla extract to the batter.
- A light dusting of powdered sugar after cooling adds a classic glazed look.
Troubleshooting
Loaf is dense and heavy.
Do not over‑mix the batter and ensure the baking powder is fresh (within 6 months).
Top is pale or not crisp.
Brush with melted butter before adding the topping and bake an extra 5‑7 minutes, or finish under the broiler for 1‑2 minutes.
Cinnamon‑sugar topping slides off.
Apply the topping while the loaf is still hot and has a butter glaze; press gently to help it adhere.
Storage
Refrigerator: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap; lasts up to 4 days.
Freezer: Slice, wrap each piece in foil, then place in a freezer bag; keep for up to 2 months.
Room temperature: Can sit uncovered for 1‑2 days, but will dry out quickly.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Bake the loaf a day ahead, store refrigerated, and reheat slices in a toaster or microwave.
- The cinnamon‑sugar topping can be prepared up to 3 days in advance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of Old-Fashioned Donut Loaf in American cuisine?
The Old‑Fashioned Donut Loaf is a modern twist on classic American breakfast pastries, combining the comfort of a sweet coffee‑cake with the familiar glaze of a fried donut. It reflects the home‑baker’s desire for a quick, oven‑baked version of a beloved fried treat.
What are the traditional regional variations of donut‑style sweet breads in the United States?
Across the U.S., sweet breads like the Boston cream loaf, cinnamon swirl bread, and the New England coffee cake each add unique flavorings or glazes. The donut loaf adds a cinnamon‑sugar crust and a buttery glaze, echoing the flavors of a classic glazed donut.
How is Old‑Fashioned Donut Loaf traditionally served in American breakfast culture?
It is typically sliced warm, brushed with butter, and enjoyed with coffee or tea. Some people toast a slice and add extra butter or a drizzle of maple syrup for extra indulgence.
What occasions or celebrations is Old‑Fashioned Donut Loaf traditionally associated with in American culture?
While not tied to a specific holiday, it is a popular weekend brunch item, a potluck treat, and a comforting snack for family gatherings or school lunches.
What makes Old‑Fashioned Donut Loaf special or unique in American sweet‑bread cuisine?
Its combination of a dense, cake‑like crumb with a buttery, cinnamon‑sugar crust mimics the texture and flavor of a fried donut without the deep‑frying step, making it both healthier and easier for home cooks.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Old‑Fashioned Donut Loaf?
Common errors include over‑mixing the batter, using stale baking powder, and removing the loaf from the oven too early. Each leads to a dense texture or under‑cooked center.
Why does this Old‑Fashioned Donut Loaf recipe use buttermilk instead of regular milk?
Buttermilk adds acidity that reacts with the baking powder, giving the loaf a tender crumb and a slight tang that balances the sweet cinnamon‑sugar topping.
Can I make Old‑Fashioned Donut Loaf ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes, bake the loaf a day ahead, wrap it tightly, and refrigerate. Reheat slices in a toaster or microwave for a fresh‑out‑of‑the‑oven experience.
What texture and appearance should I look for when the Old‑Fashioned Donut Loaf is done cooking?
The top should be golden‑brown with a glossy butter glaze, and a crisp cinnamon‑sugar crust. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean, and the loaf should spring back slightly when pressed.
What does the YouTube channel Brooke Ervin specialize in?
The YouTube channel Brooke Ervin focuses on approachable, family‑friendly recipes that often feature comfort‑food twists, quick weeknight meals, and baking projects that require minimal equipment.
How does the YouTube channel Brooke Ervin's approach to American comfort baking differ from other cooking channels?
Brooke Ervin emphasizes a "dump‑everything‑in‑one‑bowl" philosophy, prioritizing speed and simplicity while still delivering flavorful results, whereas many other channels provide more step‑by‑step, technique‑heavy instructions.
Last updated: August 24, 2026





