The kitchen fills with a warm, sweet aroma as you pull out a loaf of freshly baked cinnamon swirl bread. Each slice reveals a delightful spiral of cinnamon and sugar that beckons you closer—it’s like inviting your taste buds to a cozy hug. Picture this: the soft bread yielding under your fingers, the rich smell wrapping around you like grandma’s favorite quilt. The anticipation builds as you prepare to indulge in this slice of heaven.
I remember the first time I baked this delightful treat; my family gathered around the kitchen table, wide-eyed and eager for a taste. The joy on their faces as they savored each bite made all the flour-covered chaos worthwhile. Whether it’s a lazy Sunday morning or an unexpected guest arrives at your door, this cinnamon swirl bread is the perfect companion for every occasion.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This easy-to-follow recipe guarantees delicious results without fuss
- Its enticing aroma will fill your home with warmth and comfort
- Perfect for breakfast or brunch gatherings and great for sharing with friends and family
- This bread looks gorgeous on any table and tastes even better!
I still chuckle when I think about that first loaf I made; it was more swirl than bread, but we devoured it nonetheless!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- All-Purpose Flour: A versatile choice; make sure it’s fresh for the best texture in your bread.
- Granulated Sugar: Essential for sweetness; adjust according to your taste preference.
- Active Dry Yeast: Vital for that fluffy rise; always check expiration dates!
- Milk: Use whole milk for richness; warm it slightly to help activate the yeast.
- Ground Cinnamon: The star of our show; opt for high-quality spices for maximum flavor.
- Unsalted Butter: Adds moisture and flavor; melted butter works best in this recipe.
- Salt: A pinch enhances all flavors; don’t skip it!
- Eggs: Bind everything together while adding richness; room temperature is best.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine warm milk and sugar, then sprinkle yeast on top. Let it sit until bubbly—about 5 minutes—then add melted butter and eggs.
Add Flour & Knead: Gradually mix in flour and salt until a dough forms. Turn onto a floured surface and knead until smooth—around 10 minutes should do.
Let It Rise!: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled—about 1 hour.
Create the Filling: In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and ground cinnamon together until well combined—the aroma will be irresistible!
Shape Your Loaf: Roll out the dough into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. Spread melted butter over it generously before sprinkling your cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly across.
Bake to Perfection!: Roll the dough tightly from one long side to another to form a log. Pinch seams to seal, place in a greased loaf pan, cover again, and let rise once more—about 30 minutes. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) while waiting.
Once baked until golden brown (25-30 minutes), remove from oven and allow cooling slightly before slicing into warm pieces of happiness!
Baking this cinnamon swirl bread isn’t just about making something delicious; it’s about creating memories as sweet as its flavor! Enjoy every slice with coffee or tea or all by itself—no judgment here!
You Must Know
- Cinnamon swirl bread is not just a breakfast item; it’s a warm hug in loaf form
- The intoxicating aroma of cinnamon wafting through your kitchen will have everyone wandering in like curious cats
- This recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, perfect for any occasion
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by mixing the dough while your oven preheats, allowing it to rise efficiently. Knead well for that perfect texture, then roll out the dough and sprinkle generously with cinnamon sugar before shaping it into a loaf.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out some ingredients based on your preferences. Try adding nuts or dried fruits for extra flavor, or use different spices like nutmeg for a unique twist on this classic recipe.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover cinnamon swirl bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. To reheat, pop slices in the toaster or microwave briefly until warm and aromatic again.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use fresh yeast for better rise and flavor; old yeast can ruin your bread
- Be patient during the rising stages; good things take time!
- A touch of vanilla extract enhances sweetness and aroma beautifully, making each slice irresistible
Baking cinnamon swirl bread reminds me of cozy Sunday mornings with family gathered around the table, sharing stories and laughter over warm slices slathered in butter.
FAQ
How long does it take to bake cinnamon swirl bread?
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 30-35 minutes until golden brown.
Can I freeze cinnamon swirl bread?
Yes, wrap it tightly and freeze for up to three months for best quality.
What’s the secret to a soft texture?
Knead the dough thoroughly and ensure enough rising time for softness throughout.
Cinnamon Swirl Bread
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 slices 1x
Description
Cinnamon Swirl Bread is a delightful homemade treat featuring soft, fluffy bread with rich swirls of cinnamon and sugar. Perfect for breakfast or a cozy snack!
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 cup whole milk (warm)
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine warm milk and sugar; sprinkle yeast on top. Let sit for about 5 minutes until bubbly. Add melted butter and eggs.
- Gradually mix in flour and salt until a dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth.
- Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled (about 1 hour).
- For the filling, mix brown sugar and cinnamon in a bowl.
- Roll out the dough into a rectangle, spread melted butter over it, and sprinkle with the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- Roll the dough tightly into a log, seal seams, place in a greased loaf pan, cover and let rise again for about 30 minutes. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown; cool slightly before slicing.
Notes
- Customize by adding nuts or dried fruits to the filling.
- For extra flavor, incorporate vanilla extract into the dough.
- Ensure yeast is fresh for optimal rise.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (60g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 50mg